London 2010

Best and worst sights, experiences and destinations:

Best: Too many to list, but really enjoyed the Shakespeare Globe tour, Westminster Abbey, and free walking tours of Bath.
Why: Very interesting history and architecture.

Worst: Changing of the Guard
Why: Too many people, too little to see.

Janelle Sanda in Fargo, ND USA 11/01/2009

Best: Gordon's Wine Bar! London
Why: This is one of many reasons why we love taking Rick along! We would never have discovered this on our own.

Lori Ecklebe in Omaha, NE USA 10/25/2009

Best: buying a public transit pass
Why: Although we took your advice and did a "Hop On/Hop Off" doubledecker tour, we most enjoyed riding local buses around the city and meeting local people.

Worst: British Library
Why: The library was great, but we got lost twice trying to locate it. Could you include something more about the Treasures room there?

Laralyn Sasaki in Columbus, Oh USA 10/09/2009

Best: Tower of London / day trip to Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath
Why: Tower was wonderful. our beefeater guide was the best! Everyone should go here.

We took an Evan Evans day trip ... not enough time in each place, but these were the places I wanted to visit so I was very happy.

edna in murphey, ky USA 09/15/2009

Best: Watching Romeo and Juliet at the Globe
Why: Amazing to be in theater like where Shakespeare originally put on his plays. Fun pre-performance songs by the actors; great acting. Did the groundling tickets where stood on floor. Fun.

Nancy in Columbus, OH USA 09/13/2009

Best: For a 12 year or even older
Why: HSM Belfast a real treat and a real surprise--include as a highlight for the London with Children sights and activities section.

Penny Brown in Chicago, Il USA 09/09/2009

Best: Westminster Abbey (duh!)
Why: We spent 3 1/2 hours there

Vic S. in Idyllwild, CA USA 08/05/2009

Best: International Friends Tour of Stonehenge
Why: We don't like large crowds and group tours, but when you recommended this tour group with small sizes to see Stonehenge, we couldn't have been more pleased! We were able to see Stonehenge, Salisbury and Avebury with a total of 7 people. Our tour guide, David, did an outstanding job. He was friendly, outgoing and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend this company and hope that you put them in your future books on London.

K. in Portland, OR USA 07/27/2009

Best: Pimlico Launderette near Victoria Station
Why: Good service, worth the 9 pounds to have laundry done for me. Clothes were clean and not damaged and were folded for me.

Joy in Dayton, OH USA 07/23/2009

Best: Free Walking Tours of Bath
Why: Amazing, free, and you really do cover a lot of Bath

Worst: Bizzare Bath Street Theater
Why: I just thought it was cheesy and not very entertaining but it may be because it was a very large group on a Sat night. I did get the discount with the RS book.

Joy in Dayton, OH USA 07/23/2009

Worst: Vinopolis
Why: Very expensive for the very avg. wines you sample. Absolutely no personal attn by the 'wine stewards'. We got there in early afternoon of a weekday off season, so it was not overly busy, yet the people serving wine were like very busy bartenders with lines of people waiting for pours. It was obvious the owners staff to maximize profits...period. The displays covering the different regions were very simple. I find it amazing that Rick recommends this place (gives it 2 triangles on his must see list) given that he usually looks for good value adventures. Yet, the Natural History Museum - and incredible gallery(!), is not even on the London at a Glance page - and it's free. It is such a glaring misrepresentation of entertainment for the amount you pay, I wonder what his motivation is, and am less likely to buy another of his books.

Greg in Laguna Niguel, CA USA 07/21/2009

Best: Mad Max tours (1/2 day Stonehenge & Lacock)
Why: Friendly, entertaining tour guide (Dave); we liked that the tour took "back roads", so we went through some great towns, lovely scenery. Adored stop in Lacock, only wish we could have stayed longer there. Felt this was a very good value.

Susan Hebble in Western Springs, IL USA 07/20/2009

Worst: Easy Hotel
Why: Your credit card is billed for the entire amount of your stay before you leave home. There are no refunds, merley a credit redeemable at their miserable hotels. Far better hotel values available in the Belgravia area of London. Extra charges for a room with a window, cleaning the room, a tv remote, leaving your luggage while waiting for the room to be readied, an extra towel. All this results in the room costing as much as others in the area which are far better and larger rooms. The bathroom resembles on on an airplane, just about the same size as well. Other than the bed, no horizontal surface on which to place your suitcase in order unpack or pack. Just two hooks on the wall to hang garments.I have never been in a jail but cannot imagine the rooms are any smaller. Never, ever again

pete card in santa cruz, ca USA 07/17/2009

Best: Tower of London
Why: Thanks for the recommendation to see the Crown Jewels first. Worked perfectly! Loved the history contained within those walls.

Carolyn in Smith, CA USA 07/14/2009

Best: Tower of London
Why: Thanks for the recommendation to see the Crown Jewels first. Worked perfectly! Loved the history contained within those walls.

Carolyn in Smith, CA USA 07/14/2009

Best: Boat trip from Westminster Pier to Greenwich
Why: Recommended by Kevin at the Blades Hotel. Board the boat at WEstminster Pier by Big Ben. Sail down the thames and pass the Tower of London(watch out for Traitors Gate) under Tower Bridge and through the heart of London. At Greenwich (pronounced 'Grenich') the RoyalNaval College, now a museum will stun you. Greenwich is charming. We enjoyed a great traditional English pub lunch. Really nice hisroric town. Sailed back early evening.Not an expensive day out but truly worth doing.

Susan and David Wilde in San Jose, CA USA 07/04/2009

Best: Churchill Museum
Why: The museum was being created on my last visit in 2003. Really a multi-generationally friendly place. My 14 year old niece said that it was one of her favorites. She particularly like the Churchill "glow-worm" quotation near the entrance.

Candace J Head in Woodbury, GA USA 06/21/2009

Best: Westminster Catholic Cathedral
Why: We are not Catholics but heard about the choir from Kevin at Blades Hotel. we attended the 10.30a.m. Sunday Mass - mostly in Latin. The choir was awesome, it was almost like going to an opera, sensational singing and the organ nearly took the roof off! The cathedral itself is the most spiritual place in London.

Walter and Anna in Atlanta, GA USA 06/10/2009

Best:
Why: There was a "glitch" below. I meant to say that many websites are out of date too and if Ricks books were as bad as you say he would have been out of business many, many years ago. Thanks

Laurettaq in Oakland, Ca USA 06/04/2009

Best: Rick is STILL in the Building!
Why: To Perry, I am truly sorry that you had such a bad time on your vacation. I have used Ricks books for many years and always felt his information was very "up to date" compared to others out there. Consider this: If a Museum or Attraction changes their time or price how is Rick supposed to get that into YOUR book as you wing your way across the Atlantic?

Of course there are thousands of hotels and restaurants in this huge city. Do you want a 20 lb. book? He lists a great cross-section of what's good for the economy-minded traveler and he is always right-on.

There is so much more I can say here, but you, as the traveler must take a little responsibilty as well. Research the Internet the week before you go for the very latest. (BUT), you will find that many websites are out of you say he would have been out of business many, many years ago.

I do hope you have a better experience on your next triop, but I doubt that one book ruined your experience.

Lauretta in Oakland, Ca USA 06/04/2009

Best: Tower of London
Why: Tower of London is very fun for the kids, ages 7 and 9. Also, the Hampton Court Palace was not really recommended, but the kids and I loved it. It was also not clear from the guidebook that the actual bed where Prince Edward was born or where King Henry slept is no longer around, but it is a really fun place nonetheless. Don't miss the maze!

Worst: The Big Bus Tour
Why: The guidebook suggested the red tour because of the live commentary, but we found that it was hard to hear even though we were close to the commentator. We really liked the blue tour because it gave you just what you wanted to know and was a lot less crowded.

Marina in St. Paul, MN USA 05/27/2009

Best: The entire Orientation chapter
Why: Everything was spot on. We knew exactly was Oyster card to get, which tourist info center to go to, how to ride the bus, and which big bus tour to take.

Holly Nunn in Raleigh , NC USA 05/09/2009

Best: St. George's Arms Tavern, by Victoria Station
Why: We were with the locals and the food was fantastic. We went twice during one week's stay- it was brilliant!

Catherine Conger in Greenville, SC USA 04/19/2009

Best: Hampton Court
Why: Wonderful Palace and Gardens

Greg in Lexington, KY USA 04/11/2009

Best: Greenwich and Cambridge
Why: I think many people overlook these two places, they're absolutely gorgeous. Walking past the Naval Museum to the Royal Observatory, I was stunned by the view of the green lawn with the winding path up to the observatory. Cambridge too is gorgeous, definitely recommend the walking tour! My guide took us on the scenic route where you see the postcard show of Cambridge. Beautiful all around, I wouldn't have thought to walk back there had I not taken the tour.

Grace in Seattle, WA USA 04/05/2009

Best: Bath
Why: so many beautiful sites and experiences, the culture and history is amazing

Worst: London hotels
Why: Kensington Garden Hotel was not a good recommendation

Andrew Goldman in Crystal Lake, IL USA 03/29/2009

Best: Day trip to Paris!!!
Why: We rented a muse home for our longer stay visitng our son who was studying in London. He so wanted us to do a quick day trip to Paris & I saw that you had a chapter on doing this. ( Our son had already been there but your tour gave us a very specific plan.) The Eurostar tickets situation appears to be all sold out before you even can get a chance to buy them (price is very expensive as you stated). So we looked into the cheaper more restrictive fares that ended up being perfectly fine!!! Was well worth the research... we were careful to watch prices & went for it! We had one of our best travel memories doing Paris on a whirlwind, & slept all the way home!! Went totally against our more conservative natures...you gave us the courage to try it! Thank you so much!

Worst:
Why: Funniest thing...when we came home from the trip & were enjoying our photo memories...the majority of our photos were of me holding the rick Steve's London 2008 book!! I have never used your guidebooks before but I will from now on!

Jane Filosa in Marblehead,, MA USA 02/17/2009

Best: The National Gallery, Courtald Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Britain,
Why: Collectively, one of the best assemblages of art in the world. And free!

Worst: Tate Modern, Sir John Soane house
Why: Tate Modern A Large cavernous building made over from a power plant is of architectural interest, I suppose, but the collection was unattractively presented and hard to access. The cafe was overpriced. Not worth visiting, in my opinion. The Soane House is an antiquarian nightmare with everything,from times when and places where, out of context, stuffed inside. A waste of time.

Jack M. Potter in Olympia, WA USA 02/16/2009

Best: Westminster Roman Catholic Cathedral
Why: Regardless of religion this cathedral, near Victoria Station, is truly awesome. It is built in the Byzantine fashion - more Eastern European in influence. Sensational choir!

Patrick Finlay in Toronto, Canada 02/14/2009

Best: Belgo, Vinopolis, Fortnum and Mason
Why: Food and beer were great at Belgo, we thought Vinopolis was lots of fun and tried wines from around the world, plus we did a whisky and absinthe tasting -- neat! Fortnum and Mason is possibly the most beautiful store ever -- and their teas are amazing. Even my boyfriend loved it.

Worst: recommending Cambridge as a day trip
Why: I spent a week in Cambridge researching and it gets clogged with daytrippers -- it's such a pretty town that it's worth staying for a couple of days and getting to know better when there aren't a million people walking from college to college.

lm in Goleta, CA USA 02/12/2009

Best: Big Bus Tour/River Tour and the section on the Tube and Oyster Cards
Why: The Big Bus Company had a great deal on all tickets, including the tour, river tour and we bought tickets for the Tower of London. Plus what a super way to get the lay of the city with a very colorful guide! Also your section on the Tube, purchasing Oyster Cards and finding the deal for one Pound a day to ride the Tube for our older son (our younger son was free). The Tube was the way to get around!

Randy Lynch in Stuttgart, Germany 01/01/2009

Best: British Museum
Why: Guided tour with Hilary. Her vast knowledge brought the antiquities to life.

Mimi in Atlanta, GA USA 12/02/2008

Best: The War Rooms & Churchill Museum
Why: We were given a window back into the trying times of World War II and dramatic events that this place was central to....a time capsule of history.

James Leeper in Danville, IA USA 11/30/2008

Best: London Walks
Why: I have been on at least 10 walks and think they are a great way to learn little things about an area. It is a great way to met other travelers. We found it easier to do a walk instead of reading out of the guidebooks.

Worst: My Rick Steves suitcase handle broke
Why: The handle wouldn't collapse completely and it was difficult as we had 5 flights. I guess I have been traveling to Europe one too many times and need to splurge for another suitcase.

Ruth in Walnut, CA USA 11/24/2008

Best: Heathrow Connect Train
Why: At half the price of Heathrow Express the service was more than adequate. The train from Paddington to Heathrow 1,2,3 was about 30 min and cost 6.90 GBP. The Tube would have cost about 4 GBP and would have taken longer, with a line change to get to LHR.

Swan in Napa, CA USA 10/17/2008

Best: Buckingham Palace Tour
Why: A most interesting and educational tour. We had seen some of it on the Discovery channel, but nothing prepares you for seeing it in person.

Worst: Changing of the Guard
Why: A lot of screaming and yelling of commands, some music, a lot of walking back and forth. This is more a show for tourists (and badly orchestrated at that)than really changing the guard.

Lutz in Garden Grove, Ca USA 09/28/2008

Best: Fat Tire Bike Tour
Why: Since we didn't have much time to explore London, this was a great way to get a feel for the city without going on a passive bus tour. The same company runs these as in Paris and the quality of guides and route is the same for both -- excellent!

Rene Woolery in Denver, CO USA 09/27/2008

Best: National Gallery (off Trafalgar Square)
Why: Great gallery in every respect.

Worst: Tate Modern (downgrade rating!)
Why: I thought this gallery had many flaws and a deserves a downgrade in your book: 1) Very poor lighting throughout 2) Organized around "themes" which makes it very difficult to find artists one is interested in 3) Unless you arrive from the Millenium Bridge, the signage and directions are as minimalist as the boring/cold interior 4) Atmosphere (staff, layout, lighting, limited information - everything) is poor.

I could rant further (ridiculously dreary exterior that should have been addressed). Found it disappointing and annoyingly so.

Michael Hambrook in Vancouver , BC Canada 09/25/2008

Best: British Museum and Tate Museum Tours
Why: All your recommended Tours give an overview, and if you had limited time. It really helped not to get overwhelmed! It was great to know I could take a boat back from Kew Gardens instead of the train. Thanks! The oystercard saved us a lot of money.

Judy Spencer in Dublin, OH USA 09/25/2008

Worst: Vinopolis
Why: Ridiculously over priced and many of the wines pawned off as 'premium' are in fact swill produced by the world's largest high-volume wine and spirit congolmerates.

Ron Livingston in Los Angeles, Ca USA 09/11/2008

Best: Buckingham Palace Tour
Why: First time in London during the period where you can visit Buckingham Palace. The tour is worth every pound.

Bill in Buena Park, CA USA 09/10/2008

Best: Walking and riding the Underground
Why: Sure, I loved Westminster Abbey and other tourist destinations, but it was even more fun walking through Chelsea and Bloomsbury to see where pre-Raphaelite poets, Bloomsbury group authors, etc. lived. And Kensington Gardens was an amazing place to see people from seemingly every world culture.

Worst: V & A Museum, National Gallery, British Museum
Why: I went when it was open late. Most of the rooms were closed, and the open ones were boring. There was a concert going on, but the girl at the desk couldn't tell me what was on the program. The second time I asked her, she only said, "classical music." Made me feel like I was in the boonies of the US.

Almost as bad was the National Gallery, which was unbearably hot even though it was a cool day in the 60s. (The National Gallery in Scotland is smaller but more beautiful, with more interesting art.)

The British Museum: my goodness, how many old statues and artifacts can you look at? I suggest stepping in to peak at the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles and then spending your time walking around the neighborhood (Bloomsbury).

Mark Spargo in Meadville, PA USA 09/06/2008

Best: Phantom of the Opera and Westminster Abbey
Why: Phantom was just FABULOUS!!! We had 2nd row seats. The chandelier fell on us. :-) Westminster Abbey with the audio tour that is included in the admision price is EXCELLENT. It really brings the cathedral alive. The audio tour is very well done.

Tracey in Edgewood, WA USA 08/14/2008

Worst: The Globe Theater
Why: Expensive (like everything)! The guide gave us a 10 minute spiel on the basic history of The Globe. We then went into the theater for 8 minutes (no more, no less) to watch a rehearsal. No talking allowed. We did not get to wander around the theater venue itself. We had to leave just as it looked like some of the actors were going to do something interesting. The exhibit was boring, even to my daughter who a bit of a Shakespeare buff. In a nutshell, the tour showed us virtually nothing. The information provided was basic and nothing you can't read on-line. The exhibit is nothing special.

Tracey in Edgewood, WA USA 08/14/2008

Best: London Tower
Why: Great narration by the Beefeater, and a lot to see for the money.

Worst: Portabello Market
Why: Way too crowded for me. I would like to go back to the area on a non-Saturday.

Dayna Blankenship in Decatur, AL USA 07/22/2008

Best: Trafalgar Square
Why: Do not underestimate the joy of people watching at Trafalgar Square. I had the pleasure of being there on May 1st as May Day demonstrators spoke.

Worst: BBC Television Centre
Why: I don't believe the BBC Television Centre tour is mentioned in the Rick Steves book, and with good reason. It is extremely family friendly, meaning there are many photo ops if you are with kids in fake studios and green screens, but if you are an adult - definitely not worth the 9 pounds admission. I am a fan of the BBC and thought there may be some fun stories, etc., but you don't get anything like that. Mostly waiting as parents finish taking photos. So though it may be a good addition for a family trip, skip it as a regular adult tourist.

Anya HI USA 07/13/2008

Best: Winston Churchill Museum in London
Why: This is the most engaging, interactive, technologically advanced museum I have ever seen (and I am somewhat of a museum geek). My 12-year-old daughter who had no interest in Churchill or WWII came away LOVING Winston Churchill! This is so well-done, with details about all facets of Churchill's life, that when I came to end about his funeral, I cried. One of the exhibits is a giant, interactive computer screen on a table top the size of three ping-pong tables. It's a time line that allows you to open files of events. One of the files, when opened, makes an image of a plane fly over the entire large table-top screen as it sounds like a bomber over London. The sound makes many people turn around, because it sounds very much like London is about to be bombed! This museum is just incredible. It's the BEST. I was surprised that the guidebook did not describe it, it is just so outstanding.

[Editor's Note: Did you miss our listing for the Churchill Museum in our London book? It's been in the last three editions. In the 2008 book, it's on pages 40-42.]

Worst: Costume Museum in Bath
Why: Describing this as one of Europe's premier museums in the guidebook was so off-mark. It was a good museum, but not terribly memorable.

Kim Martin in Dallas, TX USA 07/07/2008

Best: Winston Churchill Museum
Why: VERY interesting. We have seen many of the sites on earlier trips.

Worst: British Museum
Why: They have moved many exhibits to other museums. The museum of Natural History in NYC puts it to shame now.

Deborah Sabolich in OKC, OK USA 07/07/2008

Best: British Museum; British Library; Changing of the Guard; Tower of London; Shakespeare's Globe; National Gallery
Why: Wonderful history; some have great, step-by-step tours direct from this book; must mention that Globe offers 5-pound groundling tickets

Randy in San Francisco, CA USA 06/30/2008

Best: Evensong, Westminster Abbey
Why: What a wonderful and solemn tradition. We felt privledged to be there

Garret Glennon in Baltimore, MD USA 06/28/2008

Best: Kew Gardens outside London
Why: Rick: We can't believe you only gave this one triangle!! All your other tips and sights were right on (thanks for the tip about getting tickets to the Tower of London from the store instead of waiting in line). Kew is one of the most beautiful places we have visited in Europe and you don't have to be a botanist to enjoy it! Just a short tube ride and you are in the middle of a beautiful park with a walking tree house for kids (and big kids). There are plants that are found all over the world and no where else on earth can you find them all together. A nice break from the bustle of the city of London. We can't believe you rated this magnificent place the same as visiting a sewer! There is a nice little plaza at the tube station by Kew where you can purchase bread and sandwiches to take into the park. Please reconsider your rating!

Worst: Stratford Upon Avon
Why: Mostly shopping and little on history. Go to Warwick Castle instead.

gail argenbright in beaverdam, va USA 06/28/2008

Best: National Gallery & St. Paul's Cathedral
Why: The National Gallery has an astounding collection of Renaissance art and Impressionist painting. We could not believe the rooms full of paintings of a particular artist! St. Paul's Cathedral was absolutely beautiful and breathtaking inside. The memorial behind the high altar to the more than 28,000 Americans who died in Great Britain during WWII was a wonderful tribute from the people. Climbing the Dome was worthwhile.

Lana in Richmond, TX USA 06/23/2008

Best: The Tower of London
Why: While it's touted as being expensive, the Tower is a must-see, and can be an all day experience. I think there's more history in this spot than any other in the city.

Worst: London Eye
Why: I know, Rick recommends it. I personally just don't get it. I guess for those who crave the ariel views and can't do stairs it would be worth it, but for those who are able bodied, there are many more less expensive, more historical locations around London that give wonderful vieww: St. Paul's Cathedral; the Monument; Wellington Arch (okay, not great views of the city itself, but still very nice); The OXO Tower (and they have an elevator!).

Sue in Boston, MA USA 06/20/2008

Best: Thames cruises
Why: Nice relaxing way to spend some time. Great narration on our trip.

Vaughn Smith in Victoria, BC Canada 06/13/2008

Best: St. Paul's
Why: We were there at Evensong, and were invited to sit in the Choir and take part!

Dave Lewis in Denver, CO USA 06/08/2008

Best: St Pauls cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Churchill Cabinent War Rooms, and Tower of London
Why: we spent 10 days seeing all and these were our favorites

Michael Dontje in Cleveland, OH USA 05/31/2008

Best: Tower of London
Why: So much history packed in such a small area. Knowledgeable and entertaining 'Beefeaters' giving tours. The Crown Jewels alone would make this a major tourist attraction. You could spend all day here; the more you know about the Tower before you visit, the better your visit will be.

Worst: The Tower of London
Why: I had just finished my snack in the new café at the Tower last week, when a screeching alarm began to go off. The café staff starting running around, telling people to leave the building, as it was the fire alarm that was going off. I was seated far from the only entrance, so I sat down awhile to let the large crowd, with many mothers pushing baby carriages, get out that one door. After a few moments a staff member came up to me and told me breathlessly that I needed to leave right away. I noticed a door much nearer me, marked ‘Emergency Exit’ and started towards it. The staff member got upset, and yelled at me that I couldn’t use that door, it was only for emergencies! I stood there staring at him a moment. as the alarm continued to screech, and the crowd of people continued to jam the main entrance. Finally, the staff member said something to the effect of, ‘Right then, maybe we should use that door, too’. I went out that exit, holding the door open behind me for many of the mothers who were pushing baby carriages. The alarm turned out to be false, thankfully. I hate to think what would have happened in a ‘real’ emergency.

Ed in Newton, MA USA 05/02/2008

Worst: Belgravia Rooms Ebury Street Victoria London
Why: I arrived late one night and was give a room which was advertised as a double room with an ensuite, the roomactually had one double one bunk bed and one single bed, the room was damp, dirty and badly in need of decoration. The odour made me sick, this is not a hotel it can be best described as very very poor low budget accomodation at an inflated price I paid 42.00 I could have stayed at a tourist class in the area for a similar price but was duped by the website and the person taking my reservation.

Joseph Jimenez in London, UK 04/04/2008

Best: London's Tube (subway system)
Why: It was great to walk into terminal 4 at Heathrow and know exactly what to do, where to go, and how to get there. We still had a little trouble at first but then it was great!

Toni Valenzuela in Murrieta, CA USA 04/01/2008

Best: Alan Price's Celtic Tours
Why: Celtic Horizons, Alan Price's Bath tour group, deserves a bigger write-up. He was very flexible in planning our tour - offering to pick us up & return us to our flat in London - as well as extraordinarily well-versed in the ancient history of England when visiting Avesbury & Stonehenge. [This may have been helped by his daughter's upcoming PhD in archaeology.] He was widely knowledgeable in architecture, history, but stunningly well-versed in Bronze Age history. He used maps I've never seen before to illustrate the connections among the various sites like Stonehenge & Avesbury. We have traveled widely and used many St. Rick recommended tour guides, but Mr. Price was definitely the best.

Teresa Reveley in London, UK 03/23/2008

Best: Everything was great
Why: We've had short visits to Venice, Rome, and now London, and I think I'm most eager to go back to London. Rick's book with the info on major sights, transportation details, walking tours, and museum tours have been spot-on and so helpful. In 3 days we saw Tower of London, British Museum, Westminster Abbey, Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, Churchill Museum & War Rooms, Westminster Walk, National Gallery, Imperial War Museum, St. Paul's, and Natural History Museum. Probably the best were the Tower, the Churchill Museum, St. Paul's, and the Imperial War Museum. For me planning the visit using Rick's book is almost as much fun as the visit itself.

Worst: Changing of the Guard at Westminster
Why: Even from the good vantage point on the Victoria Monument, it was hard to see things well. Most of the time nothing interesting was going on, and even the few highlights could not compare with the other great sights we saw during our visit.

Rob Craig in Ellicott City, MD USA 03/15/2008

Best: London Theatre
Why: Wonderful actors, great plays. Met some great people sitting around me every time.

Tan Milang in Nashville, TN USA 02/22/2008

Best: Churchill Museum/Cabinet War Rooms, Westminster Abbey and London Walks
Why: The verger tour in Westminster Abbey was the ideal way to see it. You're allowed access to places that other tourists aren't and the guide we had was very knowledgeable!

We did three London Walks - Soho Pub Crawl, British Museum and Greenwich. We LOVED all three. Greenwich has many interesting things to see and do (and most are free!). The guides are entertaining and extremely informative. Well worth £6.

Karis in Cross Plains, WI USA 02/20/2008

Worst: Lack of public facilities
Why: For a city of 8 million people, we found the public bathroom facilities were sorely lacking. Would hate to ever have a bladder infection or prostate problem there.

Helen Read in Calgary, AB Canada 01/03/2008

Best: Borough Market
Why: Variety, variety, and variety. If you love food, you have to go.

For readers who enjoy Chimes and its English food and real cider (!), they should look out for New Forest Cider at the Borough Market for the real thing, drawn from barrels on the spot.

Sue Canavan in Quincy, MA USA 12/30/2007

Best: Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
Why: Simply put, all museums should be this good. The audio guide is excellent, the layout easy to follow and the exhibits are remarkable. The Churchill Museum is engaging and easily takes an hour to fully appreciate. It touches on all aspects of his life, not just his time as Prime Minister during WWII.

A close second favorite experience was attending a play at Shakespeare's Globe Theater. I had a cheap "groundling" ticket for the Merchant of Venice and it was stellar. Most of us only see Shakespeare in a buttoned-down atmosphere, but this is like Shakespeare in a rock concert atmosphere. Stand in the crowd, drink a beer, cheer--just plain fun, especially for those of us who aren't regular theatergoers.

Worst: National Portrait Gallery
Why: Not that interesting. See the excellent National Gallery next door and enjoy a few minutes in Trafalgar Square instead.

J.D. D'Amico in Sanford, FL USA 09/27/2007

Best: The Globe Theater
Why: Saw "Merchant of Venice" and it was wonderful to see it in such a fine theater space. You felt that the entire audience knew how special it was to see it here. The accoustics were wonderful, the evening comfortable, and having parts of the play performed amongst the "groundlings" made it even better.

Ron in Damascus, MD USA 09/04/2007

Best: British Museum, British Library
Why: Fun, fascinating and free! The British Library has a cafe that is a great place to recharge and have tea with a view of their book collection.

Worst: Buckingham Palace
Why: We hung out with the crowd forming in front of the gates for an hour before we all figured out the changing of the guard was NOT going to happen. They should put out better signs to let people know so they don't waste their time.

Aimee in Oakland, CA USA 08/26/2007

Best: British Museum
Why: Incredible art - loved the Egyptian exhibit!

Sharon & Leo Marty in Olympia, WA USA 08/21/2007

Worst: Madam Tussads
Why: Yes, we knew it was touristy...but it was horrible. Not worth the money and mainly geared toward teenagers. A big waste of time!

Cindy Hauke in Eugene, OR USA 08/21/2007

Best: Tower of London
Why: So much of interest to see. The Beefeater tour was great! The guidebook says to plan 2 hours. We spent 4 (including lunch at the cafeteria) and still didn't see everything.

Alison in Arkadelphia, AR USA 08/21/2007

Best: Trooping of Colour
Why: Seeing the Trooping of Colour is fantastic. If you want a seat in the stands, then you must send a letter in January or February requesting the number of tickes. You will then receive a letter with a reference number. If you are lucky enough to get tickets you will be informed in March. This year the tickets were 20.00BP, must be made by check in British Sterling Pounds. But anyone can see the Trooping of Colour, you will just have to stand. Either way it is well worth it.

London Oh USA 08/17/2007

Best: Ceremony of the Keys - Tower of London
Why: Great suggestion to get the free tickets for this event. Better than Changing of the Guard with the same ceremonial feeling. We were in a small group of 30+ and easier to see. My children mention it as a highlight.

Kathy Woods in San Diego, Ca USA 08/04/2007

Worst: Harrods - a nightmare!
Why: I finally visited the so-famous Harrods that I had heard so much about - wow, it has changed. First, gone are all the royal coats of arms that used to adorn the front. Inside it was nothing more than an overpriced department store that was uncomfortably packed with tourists. I was warned it had a dress code - not now, it hasn't! I was told you would see wealthy Brits, some even with their own staff. Well the only people I saw with 'staff' were veiled Arab women with bodyguards. The mock Egyptian decor was awful. After 20 minutes (it nearly took that long to get out) we fled.

Tom Kelly in San Jose, CA USA 08/01/2007

Best: Benjamin Franklin House, London
Why: A 'must see' while in London is the house that Benjamin Franklin lived in - only 2 minutes from Trafalgar Square. This hidden gem was recommended to us by Kevin at the Blades Hotel (he is passionate about this place). It was here at 36 Craven Street that Franklin invited Thomas Paine to come to America. And it was Thomas Paine who was the first person to use the words "the united states of America". This should be a place of pilgrimage for all American visitors to London (www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org)

Cindly and Arron Carmichael in San Jose, CA USA 07/22/2007

Best: St Paul's Cathedral
Why: The Cathedral itself is stunningly beautiful and an awe-inspiring sight, and the climb to the top is well worth the exertion. Do try to see the world-class choir sing evensong as it does every afternoon - it's free and breathtakingly beautiful, even for the non-religious. Monday is always a boys-only evensong, while Thursdays are men-only. Just a note of warning, however: the choir is on break from now until the first week of September (as I think are the choirs of all of the major churches in London). Evensongs are thus being sung by guest choirs, or being said instead of sung.

Linda Canada 07/20/2007

Best: The British Museum and The National Gallery
Why: Both totally blew us away. The tour guides in the book was so helpful.

The Tube is awesome ! We went to Wembley to see The Who and the system worked so well. It saved us a bundle on Taxi rides. Also, the 4 day Brit Rail passes were great. Our trip started with a journey to Penzance, which used two days . The train ride was a highlight. Then we used 2 of the days on the Heathrow Expresss. It was such a bargain.

Worst: terrorism problems ! (not your book)
Why: Not your fault, but we went to The Comedy Store in Piccadilly, last Friday night, and walked right by The Tiger Tiger Club prior to the discovery of the car bomb. Makes you think...but we were having fun !

Steve Roddy in Penn Valley, CA USA 07/03/2007

Best: Quiet Place for Lunch, Covent Gardens
Why: After buying sandwiches at deli, as Rick and others recommend, discovered a beautiful little park behind St Paul's Church (not cathedral) at Covent Gardens area - full of flowers, roses and locals enjoying their lunch while sitting on the grass under mostly shade. A nice break from the crowds and noise. There are also clean public restrooms beside the same church.

William Carnahan in Huntsville, UT USA 07/02/2007

Best: too difficult to choose all GOOD Churchill Museum excellent!
Why: My husband & I were in London for 2 wks. Followed recommendations for many sights, all proved correct as written. LOVED the book & plan to purchase others. Saw other tourists w/same book and shared experiences, all comments good! My husband & I plan to join a RS tour in 2008. Cannot emphasize enuf - "pack light" (and to London, bring more money!!) VERY MUCH enjoyed the theatre. 1/2 price tickets picked up same day at Leicester Sq tend to be about same price as states. Tube map and oyster card process absolutely the best way to get around. Took train to Bath for recommended 2 da stay. Very easy also. This was our first experience & since we were "on our own" the London 2007 book was invaluable. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

Worst: Buckingham Palace changing of guard
Why: Just too many people to really enjoy & see, not really worth the effort for our tastes

Dallas & Karen Renoud in Petersburg, IL USA 06/16/2007

Best: Harrods!
Why: OK, everyone has to experience Harrods at least once. Just take a deep breath and plunge in. This trip I especially went to see the Diana & Dodi Memorial. It's beautifully done with flowers, a wine glass they used on their last night and the ring that Dodi was going to give her. Two large photos adorn the area and it's in a small alcove at the bottom of the Egyptian escalator, (that's something to see in itself!)

After that go into the food halls and treat yourself to the best ice cream sundae you will ever have. Take note, it's expensive but an event in itself. And right next door to the soda fountain are the singing pizza chefs. You can spoon up that delicious chocolate and carmel while listening to beautiful Italian Opera. YUM!

Lauretta in Oakland, Ca USA 06/14/2007

Best: Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms
Why: This was a very doable museum in half a day. Gave us time to do other things. Very informative and well done as far as displays, etc.

Brenda VanDerHeyden in Naples, FL USA 05/28/2007

Best: Getting to sights early!
Why: It made all the difference! Especially at the Tower of London which seems to be the most visited place in the city. By noon, hoards of people were descending on the gates! Luckily, we were on our way out by then.

Worst: The London Eye
Why: Major tourist trap and very expensive. Crowds were unbelievable.

Diane in Mansfield, PA USA 05/25/2007

Best: Bath, St. Paul's, British Museum, Hampton Ct.
Why: Bath: Immerses you in the Georgian period, Roman Baths excellent, take a guided tour, St. Pauls: Take steps to top, an incomparable experience. British Museum: Any lover of ancient Egypt or Rome will be fascinated, Hampton Court: Costumed guides brought us right into Henry 8th court, they made the experience fun, highly recommend kitchen tour as well

Worst: Bus trip to Bath
Why: We had to fly into Gatwick, take a 1 hour bus trip to Heathrow, then a 3 hour trip to Bath after an 8 hour flight. The bus station at Heathrow was like Hell and the Bus to Bath was crowded and noisy with no chance to catch a nap

sharon quinn in Grafton, Wi USA 05/18/2007

Best: British Museum
Why: Local guide Tom Hooper was great. He is a former lawyer who was both informative and fun. The tales of the kings and the collection was one of the best I have ever encountered.

Jerry DeWitt in franklin, tn USA 05/09/2007

Best: Thames to Greenwich cruise, and Greenwich
Why: Interesting historical perspective of London by cruising down the Thames to Greenwich. It puts things in perspective more.

Martina EF Horwitz in Chicago, IL USA 05/01/2007

Best: So many world class free museums in London
Why: These really took the sting out of high prices for lodging and eating in this wonderful city. Brought my average daily costs way down. Now if Paris would do the same it would be a huge gift to tourists who are now losing so much on xchg rates $ to Euros every yr.

JS CA USA 04/08/2007

Best: York and York Minster
Why: Great day trip from London.

Hank Thon in Roswell, GA USA 04/03/2007

Best: Westminister Abbey
Why: Awe inspiring architecture coupled with the centuries of history made the place very special. The on site daily chaplin will visit with tourists anytime.

George Glines in Independence, KS USA 03/30/2007

Best: Harrods Department Store
Why: Unbelievable range of products and food courts. Something there for EVERY interest and EVERY budget. Eating there is a must-do!! We spent our last day in London there eating, buying coffee, tea, gifts, and specialty foods to take home.

George Glines in Independence, KS USA 03/30/2007

Best: Cabinet War Rooms and Churchill Museum
Why: Don't miss this site: very well done, entertaining without being gimmicky, and just a pleasure to visit. You'll love it.

Alison in Chicago, IL USA 03/26/2007

Best: Tower of London / Westminster Walk
Why: We followed the instruction from the book exactly. All was enjoyable and worth every minute of my limited time in London. When I asked for a one-way ticket from Tower to Westminster on the Cruise and showing my travelcard for discount, the person said, "Another Rick Steves student". Thanks Rick.

Bill in Buena Park, CA USA 03/26/2007

Best: Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
Why: Rick's advice to head for the Crown Jewels as soon as the Tower opens is absolutely correct (just like his advice to run for the Mona Lisa as soon as the Louvre opens). Furthermore, Rick mentions in the book that the guards by the jewels are "actually there to provide information," and that is a great tip. We had the Crown Jewels all to ourselves for about 10 minutes and received several private lectures from the (very well-informed) guards! That was one of the high points of our trip.

Worst: London Eye
Why: It wasn't a horrible experience, but I don't think it deserves a three-pyramid rating in the book. It is expensive (approximately $28 per person, with no available discounts that we could find), and although the view is great if it's a nice day, I just don't agree that as a tourist attraction it rates on the same level as Rick's other three-pyramid London recommendations (which all have great historical and/or artistic merit).

Irving Jaye in Memphis, TN USA 03/22/2007

Best: Tower of London
Why: The one must-see for every visit to London. So much to see. Pricey, but worth it. Always something new (if that's the right word to use) to discover.

Ed Butts in Newton , MA USA 03/15/2007

Best: Westminster Abbey
Why: The architecture and history were amazing. Pay the five pounds to get the guided tour...you'll learn some pretty cool stuff and get to see (up close) some things the general public doesn't get to see.

Anita Elder in Seattle, WA USA 03/03/2007

Best: Too many to choose from.
Why: We loved the museum guides/commentaries. They REALLY helped and made the huge places manageable. It was because of this book that I ended up going to: National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, British Museum, British Library, V&A, Churchill Museum and War Rooms, Somerset House (all 3), Kenwood House, St. Paul's, Westminster Abbey, St. Martin in the Field, Parliament, Tower of London, Tower Bridge and even saw 3 fabulous shows.(and even toured Lloyds of London). Buying tickets at the box office early in the day was definitely the cheapest way to get tickets. TKTS was more expensive. Many movies are made here, it might be fun if you mentioned some: Notting Hill, Bridget Jones Diary, Venus, Scoop.

[Editor's Note: We list movies that are set in London in our Introduction chapter, p. 9 of the 2007 edition.]

Worst: Thames cruise
Why: Choosing the right boat was confusing. Looking on the web was not easy either as we were there in January. The one we chose went from Tower of London and back but didn't pass Parliament! We could see it right over there! Darn.

Nancy Mulder in Minneapolis, MN USA 01/28/2007

Best: The reminder to just "experience" London
Why: It's easy to run from one fabulous museum to another, but some of the best moments find you...when you've done your planning!!!

Worst: London Eye
Why: Only worth the price if you - or your children, as in our case - REALLY want to go. We couldn't find any discounts the week before Christmas, so the cost for 5 was about $90.

Beth AL USA 01/22/2007

Best: V & A Museum, National Portrait Museum
Why: Very wonderful museums, exp. the portrait museum and your "tours" of them was very helpful

Lois Stober in Reinholds, PA USA 01/17/2007

Best: Tower of London
Why: The history of this place is amazing! The Beefeater tour, free of charge, was hosted by Kevin, who was very entertaining, and everyone there was so helpful. Would visit again! Also, Wesminster Abbey was a great self-guided tour--thanks!

Worst: Changing of the Guard
Why: The "perfect storm of Redcoat pagentry" was underwhelming. The Changing of the Horse Guard was just as good, with horses.

Carrie McKenzie in Wauwatosa, WI USA 01/04/2007