4.  London is the capital of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.  It is the political, economic and financial centre of the country.  In Europe, London is one of the largest city. Its population is of more than 7 million people.

6.  The Tower of London was built on the River Thames after the Norman conquest in 1066.  It was originally intended as a fortress, but later it was used as a palace, the main state prison, and now it is a museum containing the crown jewels.

12.  Westminster is also called the City of Westminster contains the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.

14.  The Houses of Parliament is actually one building which consists of the House of Commons and the House of Lords..  Yet, you can always have a look at the famous clock tower of the Houses of Parliament which contains the “Big Ben”.

17.  Westminster Abbey is an architectural masterpiece.  It has been the scene of coronation of almost all British monarchs since William I in 1066.  Today it is also a church where the nation’s great events are celebrated.  In the abbey, there are tombs and memorials of many eminent British citizens, such as Newton, Dickens, Darwin, Chaucer and others.  One of the treasures of the abbey is the ancient coronation chair made from oak in 14th century.

19.  Buckingham Palace used to be the London residence of the British monarch.  Today it is the Queen’s official residence.  The Changing of the Guard at the Palace and on Horse Guards Parade are the events which always draw thousands of tourists.  In August and September the Palace itself is open to visitors.