
London is full of old town squares and areas of history. Take a stroll around the city and discover them for yourself.
Docklands
The former docklands area, made redundant by changes in shipping that have concentrated on down-river Tilbury, has rightly been seen as an opportunity to revitalise the area. Crucial to whatever was done was the creation of a decent public transport system and the result is the Docklands Light Railway with its speed, comfort and good value.
Carnaby Street
This street became famous around the world during the 1960's, as the fashion centre of London. Then it was a 'really groovy' street. Today, it has been pedestrianised and contains shops, which are obviously aimed at tourists.
Charing Cross Road
Books, books, books and more books! Charing Cross Road and the surrounding roads are absolutely packed with bookshops. There are the usual major bookshop chains such as Books Etc, Waterhouse and Dillions and the gigantic Foyles.
Chinatown
An abundance of Chinese restaurants and shops are concentrated in this small area.
The Chinese New Year in late January or early February is especially entertaining with its traditional celebrations and processions.
Greenwich
There are not too many defenders of the Millennium Dome around these days. But if nothing else it has served to place the spotlight on what is undoubtedly a place for the future.
To get there is easy thanks to the Docklands Light Railway, six stops south from Canary Wharf.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is a great place for a stroll in the sun, a picnic or even to sail a model boat.
Covering 800acres the heath now also includes a number of formerly separate properties including Kenwood House on the north edge and The Hill, a formal garden to the east.
King's Road
Chelsea, London, SW3 5UW
King's Road in Chelsea was originally a private road to take King Charles II from Hampton Court to his Palace in Whitehall. Entry to the street was only allowed to ticket holders.
Knightsbridge
Knightsbridge is London's upmarket shopping area, frequented by the rich and famous.
No visit to Knightsbridge would be complete without a visit to Harrods - the crème-de-la-crème of department stores.
Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market's attractive Victorian facade dates from 1881. It was built by Horace Jones who also designed Smithfield Market and the old Billingsgate Market.
The site has been used as a market for a long time.
Leicester Square
The square was named after the Earl of Leicester who lived in a house next to it. Originally designed in the mid 17th century, the square has recently been restored, and the area around it has been pedestrianised.
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