England is a most wonderful nation to visit for a vacation. England has a large number of| visitor attractions well worth visiting which cater for all tastes. For example the historical city of York which dates back to the days of the Roman Empire, Torquay (referred to as the English Riviera) and Liverpool (2008′s European City of Culture). One of the most interesting, and famous, places to spend some time in is London the capital city of Britain
London is a most incredible destination to visit, either just for a weekend or, hopefully for a full vacation. You would be surprised at how many people who reside in England who have not yet visited London, this is especially surprising when you bear in mind the fact it is commonly top of most visitors lists (of places they enjoyed most).
There simply so many things to do and see in London that it is not possible to recall them all at once. Surprisingly one of the newest attractions in London also happens to be one of the most popular – The London Eye. Another popular attraction nearby to the London Eye is the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. However, one place which must not be missed is Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace is England’s most well known Royal residence, as it is home to the Queen of England. Buckingham Palace is is placed right in the very center of London which makes it a natural focus for visitors. The daily pageant of ‘Changing of the Guard’ is very fascinating to witness and quintessentially English.
Buckingham Palace was originally called Buckingham House. It was originally a large town house, built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham. It is actually the townhouse that forms the main core of the palace as we know it today.
Over the subsequent three quarters of a century Buckingham House was enlarged with the building of an additional 3 wings around a central courtyard. The main architects responsible for these constructions were John Nash and Edward Blore. It was also John Nash who was responsible for the interior design of the monumental staterooms.
The widely known architect Aston Webb was responsible for the construction of the principal facade of Buckingham Palace which he re-designed in 1912. Webb in association with the sculptor Sir Thomas Brock were the winners of a competition to design a memorial to Queen Victoria. This memorial is still standing today.
The Queen has many other royal residences other than Buckingham Palace. Every year the Queen stays, at Sandringham House in Norfolk, during the Christmas season. Sandringham House is a private royal residence (owned by the Queen).
Another private residence is Balmoral Castle, situated in Aberdeenshire in Scotland. The Queen was in residence at Balmoral Castle when she was told of the tragic incident involving Diana (the former wife of Prince Charles).
If you would like to take a break in England you might be pleased to be informed that it is possible to find cheap hotels in London without any great effort, on the other hand you may want to reside in more luxurious accommodation and the small selection of boutique hotels in London should more than satisfy.
