London is a city of versatility and change. No two visits will ever be the same, as the capital’s restless spirit transforms the place. Centuries of history both popular and royal, art and jewels, the world capital of literature and a food scene that has been transformed over the last 20 years – you’ll find it all within this famous city, once the centre of the world.
The Square Mile
The airport is perfectly situated to offer access to the City of London, and while this is the financial nerve centre of the UK, it’s also home to some of the most interesting parts of London.
Among the hustle and bustle you’ll find forests, parks and city gardens. You can gaze up at the gorgeous interior of St Paul’s Cathedral, stare down through the glass floors of Tower Bridge and explore centuries of British history in the company of Beefeaters at the Tower of London.
Leadenhall Market on Gracechurch Street dates from the 14th century, but the current interior, including the fantastic roof, is from 1881. It’s a great place to eat, drink and spot the many locations used in TV shows and films, including Harry Potter.
Enjoy the East End
London’s East End is a place of pride and passion, and makes a change from the tourist norm. Take in a matinee at the Brick Lane Music Hall for a uniquely British experience, before wandering down to the market housed in the Old Truman Brewery.
There’s a plethora of curry houses here, but leave room for a visit to the famed Beigel Bake – serving bagels with salt beef or smoked salmon and cream cheese 24 hours a day since 1977.
Take flight at the Docks
With lots of parking at the nearby ExCel International Convention Centre, a visit to the Royal Docks is a must. In the summer months you can experience the urban beach, sample something extreme at London Watersports Centre or stroll along ‘The Line’, a trail of sculpture including work from Damien Hirst and Eduardo Paolozzi.
Finally, take to the skies for a unique view of London. The Emirates Air Line reaches heights of 90m as you cross the Thames in a cable car. It’s a great way to get from the Docks to the green spaces of Greenwich.
This is merely touching the surface of what London and the south-east have to offer, and car hire at London City Airport is your convenient passport to all of it.