London is a grand adventure for both first time and frequent visitors. A city tour aboard a double-decker bus provides an excellent introduction. For another perspective, take a boat ride on the Thames. Cruises leave from Westminster and Charing Cross piers and travel downstream to the Tower of London and Greenwich, or upstream to Kew and Hampton Court. London boasts the world's oldest museum, the British Museum with its impressive recent addition, the Great Court. South Kensington is home to three of London's most illustrious museums - the Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum. The museum dedicated to London's own history- the Museum of London - is located at the Barbican. The three largest contemporary art galleries are also in London! Tate Modern has already had over five million visitors in its first year. The original Tate, now known as Tate Britain, has reinvented itself as a gallery dedicated to British art over the last 500 years. The National Gallery and neighboring National Portrait Gallery in Trafalgar Square are a 'must' for any art-loving visitor to London. This summer's Vermeer exhibition at the National is pulling in the crowds. Don't miss the Royal Academy, the Hayward or the new galleries at Somerset House.

Over recent years, London has seen an unprecedented growth in the number of attractions it has to offer, from Tate Modern, the British showcase for international modern art to the redevelopment of Somerset House. Other top new attractions in London include the British Airways London Eye, the British Museum Great Court and the Wellcome Wing at the Science Museum. The changes don't stop there, London is constantly evolving with new attractions, hotels and exhibitions. To celebrate 100 years of Tate on Millbank, Tate Britain has undergone massive development increasing its display space threefold. From 1 November, more art from the Tate Collection will adorn its walls and floors. On 22 November the new British Galleries at the V&A will open to provide a history of British art and design from Henry VIII to Queen Victoria. October and November in London also see an imaginative program of events, both world-class and quirky. And don't miss out on London's autumn accommodation deals to make the most of your stay. 

Guided walking tours concentrate on a particular district or on a subject such as architecture or places associated with Dickens or even Jack the Ripper. Independent walkers can follow the Heritage Walk through the financial section, known as the City, or the Silver Jubilee Walkway that covers dozens of major sights. The Underground (subway) is extensive and easy to use. Spectacles and displays include Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace (every other day, daily in summertime) and the annual Opening of Parliament in November, when throngs line the route as the Queen rides from Buckingham Palace accompanied by her Household Cavalry.

Popular day trips from London include visits to the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge, and to Windsor, site of Britain's most famous castle. Durham Cathedral celebrates its 900th anniversary with a program of events from March through Nov.