London’s attractions: see or flee?
1. TOWER OF LONDON
Creepy and beautiful all at once. The brilliant guides, the Beefeaters, might well be the best entertainers in town; houses the crown jewels. (Chris Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
2. WESTMINSTER ABBEY
Profoundly moving site of coronations and funerals. On weekdays, catch the youth choirs at late afternoon services. (Tim Hubbard / Los Angeles Times)
3. PORTOBELLO MARKET
Best lunch in London? Gets our vote. On Saturdays, this Notting Hill market is a crazy, cool cultural mobfest. Try the Ghanaian stew ($9). (Chris Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
A CLASSICAL DESIGN: St. Paul’s in London survived the ravages of World War II. Post-war changes to the city’s skyline near the cathedral have raised the ire of Prince Charles. (Andy Rain / EPA)
5. LONDON THEATERS
The Italians make art. The French make love. The British make theater . . . in opulent venues surrounding wonderful Leicester Square.
Pictured: The Palladium Theater in London (Joel Ryan / Associated Press)
6. BUCKINGHAM PALACE
Changing of the guard, 11:30 a.m. most days, draws insane crowds, like some sort of British Disneyland. Go anyway. (Jessica Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
7. THE TATE MODERN
In a city of engaging museums, this art venue is a standout. Lively riverside setting. Like most other London museums, it’s free.
Pictured: Robert Morris’ installation “Bodyspacemotionthings” in the Turbine Hall of the Tate Modern (Oli Scarff / Getty Images)
9. COVENT GARDEN MARKET
This hyper-touristy old market is worth a quick stop for its shops, cafes and street entertainers. Royal Opera House is steps away. (Chris Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
10. HYDE PARK
Henry VIII’s former hunting grounds are the ideal spot for a Sunday stroll; a living period piece. Be sure to check out the rental rowboats. (Chris Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
11. BRITISH MUSEUM
The Rosetta Stone resides here, as do miles of Middle Eastern antiquities. But after the mummies, it’s all a bit of a slog. (Oli Scarff / Getty Images)
12. THAMES TOUR
More relaxing than the land-based tours; city’s chill seeps up through the hull. On chilly days, grab an inside seat. Photo ops galore. (Chris Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
14. OXFORD STREET / PICCADILLY CIRCUS
Lively, youth-oriented shopping district with world-class buzz. One of the city’s main traffic snarls, so be prepared to walk. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)
15. ROYAL ALBERT HALL
Perhaps a winner during a concert. But as a tour stop, not so much. The Albert Memorial across the street helps elevate the experience. (Jessica Erskine / Los Angeles Times)
16. JACK THE RIPPER TOUR
Despite a game and active guide -- he even sang -- this walking tour is a dud. Maybe it’s because some of the 19th century sites are gone.
Pictured: Ripper territory in the East End of London (Gail Fisher / Los Angeles Times)
