Discover London, courtesy of Jack
Author: Isla Campbell
Category: Travel and Leisure
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The City of London has a history dating back to the Roman conquest in 43BC and has been continuously settled since that time. Covering an area of almost 609 square miles, Greater London contains a population in excess of 12million, making it one of the world's major conurbations and most visited cities.
However, most of the city that existed before the 17th century was destroyed following a disastrous incident. Starting as a small fire in a bakery in Pudding Lane, the Great Fire of 1666 eventually consumed almost 80% of the city's mainly wooden buildings during four horrific days.
Although a huge tragedy in terms of the loss of property, the fire thankfully claimed only 16 lives and paved the way for major re-construction of the city, consisting of more solid structures made of brick. Indeed, one of London's enduring landmarks, St. Paul's Cathedral, was only built as a result of fire destroying the original building.
One of the best ways to see at close hand the varied architecture in the City of London is to join a Jack the Ripper tour that takes visitors to London through the East End area where the notorious serial killer earned his reputation. Although most of the streets where he stalked his victims are long gone, on a foggy night a participant can still get an eerie feeling of what the area was like during the 19th century, as well as enjoying the varied architecture that lines the tour route.
Bordering on the edge of the City's financial district, a Ripper tour takes participants past some of the city's newest landmarks such as the exquisite 30 St. Mary Axe, better known as 'the Gherkin', due to its resemblance to the pickled delicacy. Another fascinating London landmark en route is the futuristic, metal-clad Lloyds Building, designed by famed architect Richard Rogers.
However, when it comes to getting an aerial view of the City there is no better place to survey its magnificence than from the spectacular London Eye. Other than final approach on flights to London there is no better view of the city. Standing 135 metres tall, this giant Ferris wheel was opened in March 2000 to celebrate the Millennium and continues to draw the crowds some eight years later.
As the wheel turns it offers a superb view of the city's impressive skyline as well as a prime view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the opposite side of the Thames. It is the UK's most popular attraction so anyone intending to take a spin is advised to book their flight on the Eye in advance. They won't be disappointed.
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Keywords: Flights to London, City of London, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Jack the Ripper
View Count: 54
Date Submitted: 6/6/2008
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