Find things to do in London, from iconic sightseeing spots and fun-filled days out to top restaurants, theatre and unmissable London events.The City of Westminster, to the west of the City of London, has for centuries hosted the national government and parliament. Since the 19th century,[12] the name “London” has also referred to the metropolis around this core, historically split between the counties of Middlesex, Essex, Surrey, Kent, and Hertfordshire, which largely comprises Greater London.

Largely off the track of wars, skirmishes and potential invasions since the Middle Ages, the East of England has a peace and tranquility that reflects the calm waters of its slow moving rivers. Not surprising therefore that the region should be strong on cathedrals and elegant stately homes, and short on castles and fortresses. Only during the Second World War was this once again, briefly, a strategic area, as it had been in the times of the Anglo Saxons and the Vikings.