London's Essential Sightseeing Route

This walking tour starts at Whitehall Park and takes you through the London Eye and Big Ben. The distances are short, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll, and walking along the Thames River provides a refreshing breeze, even in the height of summer. Whitehall Park was a delightful surprise as I stumbled upon it by chance. The park was more impressive than I expected, with many London locals relaxing on benches, exuding a sense of calm and leisure that left a lasting impression. Exiting Whitehall Park, you'll immediately spot the London Eye. While you can take various photos with the London Eye as a backdrop, I was too shy to take fun and creative shots. Looking back, I regret not being more confident and adventurous with my photos. The nighttime view of London from the London Eye is said to be stunning, so I recommend taking a ride after sunset if you get the chance. Continuing along the Thames River, you'll arrive at Big Ben, one of London's iconic landmarks. The best spot for photos is near the red telephone booth, which is easy to find as people often line up there. With Big Ben and the red telephone booth in the frame, you're guaranteed to capture a picture-perfect shot without needing any filters. Next, head to Buckingham Palace, the residence of the British monarch and a must-see attraction. Watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony is a popular part of the visit, but be sure to check the schedule in advance as it only takes place on specific days. In front of Buckingham Palace, there's a surprisingly large park. It's fascinating to find such a spacious park in the middle of the city. Watching people relax and enjoy their time in the park allowed me to unwind as well. Note that sitting on the chairs in the park requires a fee, and someone will come to collect payment. They accept cards too. Following this route at a leisurely pace will take about three hours. I started my tour in the morning, combining sightseeing with a pleasant walk, and finished just in time for lunch. I recommend taking this walk on a sunny morning and treating yourself to a delicious lunch afterward!