With great galleries, superb museums & fantastic sights, London is one of the much popular visitor destinations in the world.
London boasts a truly diverse population & over 300 languages are spoken within the city. According to 2006 statistics, it boasts a population of 7512400, which makes it the most populous municipality in the european union & the second most populous in Europe.
London has been picked to hold Olympics in 2012.
In 1863, increasing traffic congestion on roads in london led to the creation of the world’s first underground railway system, the london underground.
The city was bombed badly over the 2nd world war and plenty lives were lost. following the war, plenty buildings in the city had to be built again.
After world war ii, immigration changed London into one of the much culturally & racially diverse cities in Europe. Immigration was not always smooth, because there were massive race riots in notting hill and brixton, but intergration was definitely smoother than in other english regions.
The museums and galleries in London are the best in the country. One of the finest galleries is the Tate Modern, which is placed in the former Bankside Power Station. The gallery opened in 2000 and it boasts a wide variety of permanent exhibits by artists including Warhol, Peter Blake and Picasso, in addition to touring exhibitions. entry to multitude exhibitions is free.
Needless to say that the shopping in London is the best in the uk. In fact, the city boasts a wide range of famous outlets, which include Harrods and Hamleys.
Camden Town is renowned for its alternative shops and wonderful market. its a diverse location, which sells everything from vintage clothing to records.
Alternatively, shop lovers should head to knightsbridge or mayfair for the more high-end outlets. you will find some fabulous designer brands in this elite area.
London is renowned for its elite wine bars, nightclubs and theatres. One of the best known night clubs is Fabric , which is situated in Leicester Square. This enormous nightclub has a 1600 capacity and it attracts some enormous name DJs, especially on Fridays when it holds its renowned Fabric Live event.
Another fabulous nightclub is Ministry of Sound, which is situated in Southwark.
There’s thousands of hotels, guesthouses & bed & breakfasts in London, so there is accommodation to suit any budget. From famous names such as the Hilton, the Dorchester & the Marriot, to cheap hostels, there truly is things for everyone to enjoy.
The British Museum – This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London with millions of people visiting the museum each year. It is located on the Great Russell Street, London, WC1 and you can reach it by taking the Tube to Russell Square. You will find almost everything under one roof starting with collections from Egypt, Greek and Roman art, China, old Mesopotamia, Antiques, coins and medals, Prints and drawings, Renaissance and Anglo-Saxon Britain, etc. The sheer size of the museum (2,5 miles of galleries) suggests to you, to wear a good pair of walking shoes and be prepared to spend most of the day there. Whatever your cup of tea is you will have a memorable day out. Open from: Mon-sat 10am-5pm, Sun noon-6pm. Tel: 0207 323 8000.
Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms – Visit the highly interactive and innovative Churchill Museum, the world’s first major museum dedicated to life of the ‘greatest Briton’, plus the secret underground headquarters that were the nerve centre of Britain’s war effort. Situated at Clive Steps, King Charles Street London, SW1A 2AQ. Tel: 020 7930 6961. Textphone: 020 7839 4906.
The Clockmaker`s Museum – It is to be found at Guildhall Library, Aldermanbury, London EC2P 2EJ and is open from Monday to Friday (except public holidays) from 9.30am until 4.30pm. Entry is free, via the historic Guildhall Yard. Its collection is the property of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers and is run by its educational charity. It was founded in 1813 and has been open to the public since 1873. The museum has recently been entirely reconstructed to tell the story of the “Clockmakers of London”. It is a priceless collection of clocks, watches, portraits and tools. The most famous single item is John Harrison’s 5th Marine Timekeeper, familiar to visitors from around the world because of Dava Sobel’s astonishingly successful book, “Longitude”. Around Guildhall Yard is grouped the Clock Museum, Guildhall Library (which holds regular temporary exhibitions), the Mediaeval Guildhall and its crypt, Guildhall Art Gallery, the recently discovered east gate to the Roman Amphitheatre and the Wren church of St. Lawrence Jewry, so there is much to see in the immediate vicinity. Map
The Design Museum – Luke Hayes, Design Museum, Shad Thames, London SE1 2YD, 10.00-17.45 daily, T: 0870 833 9955, www.designmuseum.orgThe stylish white edifice is the perfect showcase for an unpretentious display of design products ranging from classic cars to home utensils. Whilst first floor `Review Gallery` acts as a host for new ideas and temporary exhibitions, the top floor `Collections Gallery` is constantly evolving. To replenish your body energy please go to Conran restaurant located on top floor. Shad Thames, London SE1, Tower Hill or Bermondsey tube station.
The Firepower – The Royal Artillery Museum – Firepower, the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavour. The ‘ground shaking’ Field of Fire audio-visual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whiz overhead and guns roar.
The Florence Nightingale Museum – Florence Nightingale was a legend in her lifetime but the Crimean War years which made her famous were just two out of a life of ninety years. If you want to find out more than please visit this museum.
The Foundling Museum – This museum tells the story of the 18th Century Foundling Hospital, and of its Founders and Governors: the campaigning philanthropist Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and the composer George Frideric Handel. A significant collection of works by the hospital’s early artist supporters including Gainsborough and Reynolds are displayed in interiors preserved from the original Foundling Hospital. The Foundling Hospital was established at a time when there was scant provision for society’s vulnerable. The Museum traces the history of London’s first children’s charity and features many poignant objects of social history including personal mementoes left by mothers with their infants as means of their identification. The Museum’s top floor houses the Gerald Coke Handel Collection, one of the most important collections of memorabilia relating to the composer, who himself was a Governor of the Foundling Hospital.
The Geffrye Museum – This museum presents the changing style of English middle-class interiors from 1600 to the present day through a series of period rooms. It is set in elegant 18th- century almshouses with attractive gardens, including an award-winning herb garden and a series of period gardens (open Apr to Oct). An imaginative education programme for children, families and adults is run throughout the year. Open Tuesday – Saturday 10.00am – 5.00pm, and Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays from Noon – 5.00pm. Free Admission. Tel: 020 7739 9893.
The Handel House Museum – The great baroque composer George Frideric Handel lived at 25 Brook Street from 1723 until his death in 1759. Here he composed famous works such as ‘Messiah’, ‘Zadok the Priest’ and ‘Music for the Royal Fireworks’. Today Handel House Museum is a beautifully restored historic house, live music venue and museum offering an insight into Handel’s life, 18th-century music and culture. Throughout the House, paintings and prints of Handel and his contemporaries provide a backdrop to Handel’s life in London. Today, the House is alive with music as it was during Handel’s residence, a special experience for all visitors. There are weekly Thursday evening recitals, events at the weekend and family trails, quizzes and activities. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm; Thursday 10am – 8pm; Sunday 12pm – 6pm (last admission half an hour before closing) Admission prices: £5 adult, £4.50 concession; £2 child or FREE on Saturdays. Handel House Museum, 25 Brook Street, London, W1K (entrance around the back in Lancashire Court).
The Horniman Museum – Conveniently located, a 13-minute train ride from London Bridge station to Forest Hill is followed by a five-minute walk to the Museum. Also, there is now direct access to the beautiful gardens via a new main entrance – the 16 acres host events throughout the year and have spectacular views over the London skyline. On entering the development, which doubles the existing public space of the museum, you are struck by a feeling of light and space. This now serves as the main entrance, with a wonderful café with barrel vaulted ceiling echoing the original building, and a brand new shop. At the heart of the new building is the central orientation area – ‘Gallery Square’. A balcony overlooks the lower ground floor, and from here visitors can access any part of the Horniman. An expanse of glass on one side forms a magnificent picture window and offers views onto Frederick Horniman’s 1894 conservatory (Grade ii listed), and the Gardens. Also on this level is the Museum’s new education centre which can be configured to accommodate a classroom, a craft space and lunch area for schools, as well as evening classes for adults. Around the balcony is the new “Hands on Base”, housing the Museum’s prestigious handling collection. Comprising 3,700 objects, especially procured to represent the Museum’s three main collections of music instruments, natural history and ethnography, the collection has become an important learning tool for the Horniman’s diverse visitor mix including families and community groups, highlighting the many environments and cultures represented by the Museum’s varied collections.
The Imperial War Museum – Based in south London with connection of Elephant & Castle, Lambeth North or Waterloo tube line it holds a variety of militaristic display of weapons. From the trenches of WWI and Blitz campaign on London it will try to represent statistics of war and casualties of such things. There is a section of Secret War Gallery that is not so enlightening. Interesting thing about this museum is that the building itself was until 1930 a lunatic asylum that confined Charlie Chaplin`s mother. Open from: daily 10am-6pm.Tel: 0207 416 5000.
Kew Bridge Steam Museum – Built in the 19th century to supply London with water, the museum is recognised as the most important historic site of the water supply industry in Britain. This museum contains the world’s largest collection of steam pumping engines, many of which you can see working every weekend. The museum is open from 11.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday. They are closed on Mondays, except Bank Holidays. Last admission at 4.15pm.
The London Motor Museum – Featuring a showroom full of classic cars from the 1950s to the present day the London Motor Museum charts the recent history of the moving vehicle. Cars include pimped up rides from the States and luxury brands from Europe. A Louis Vuitton Cadillac Deville is parked up alongside a Lincoln Continental Lowrider and there are plenty of deluxe names like Aston Martin, Ferrari and Jaguar. If you book in advance you can even have a ride in a pink Cadillac or a Pontiac 79 Trans Am muscle car. London Motor Museum, 3 Nestles Avenue, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 4SB. Tel: 0800 195 0777. www.londonmotormuseum.co.uk
The London Transport Museum – Makes an interesting place to visit and compare transport from the past and learn facts about today’s speed of travel in central London that is only 10 miles per hour. That alone tells you about congestion we experience on daily basis travelling trough London. Plenty of old trains, trams and buses make this exhibition and for those with children there is a chance to hop on and off some buses. Open from: Mon-Thurs, Sat & Sun 10am-6pm, Fri 11am-6pm. Tel: 0207 836 8557.
The Museum in Docklands – London’s newest museum unlocks the history of London’s river, port and people in an early nineteenth century warehouse at West India Quay. Originally used to house imports of exotic spices, rum and cotton, it now holds a wealth of objects from enormous whale bones to WWII gas masks, which provide glimpses of lost and almost forgotten worlds. Here you can encounter the wide array of people that have come and gone from the Docks over the last 2000 years, from its Roman founders to Viking invaders and from gentleman pirates to today’s city workers. The state of the art galleries include a dedicated space for children, called the Mudlarks Gallery. This fully interactive play and learning area introduces kids between 5 and 12 to the history of Docklands. They can winch and weigh cargoes, get a divers eye view of work under water, balance the cargo in the hold of a nineteenth century clipper, and discover archaeological finds in the foreshore discovery box. Museum of Docklands is located at No. 1 Warehouse West India Quay, Hertsmere Road E14. Travel by DLR to West India Quay. Children go free.
The Museum of Childhood Bethnal Green – The Museum of Childhood at Bethnal Green contains one of the largest and oldest collections of toys and childhood artefacts in the world. As well as its permanent displays, the Museum has temporary exhibitions, gallery play areas and every weekend, has art activities V&A Museum of Childhood Memoriesfor children aged 5+ and soft play for under fives, with additional activities during school holidays. It also has a souvenir shop, a café, children’s birthday party and corporate hire facilities, and a garden with picnic tables. The collection, which dates from the sixteenth century to the present day is permanently on display to visitors, comprises dolls, dolls’ houses, teddy bears, toy soldiers, train sets, model cars, puppets, rocking horses, board games, and some of the very first jigsaw puzzles ever made. In addition to its toys, the Museum houses the national collection of children’s costume. The upper gallery is devoted to the theme of growing up through the ages. With its unique display of baby equipment, nursery furniture and children’s costume, the gallery explores the experience of childhood, from birth to adolescence. Open: 10.00 – 17.50. Closed: Fridays, 24 – 26 December and 1 January. Admission free. Museum of Childhood at Bethnal Green, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA.
The Museum of Garden History – Situated in the restored church of St. Mary-at-Lambeth, adjacent to Lambeth Palace on the banks of the River Thames, the Museum of Garden History provides an insight into the history and development of gardens and gardening in the UK, an important facet in our social history. The Museum houses one of the finest public displays of garden tools and garden related artefacts and curiosities in the country, as well as an intriguing collection of garden related ephemera. In addition, a beautiful reproduction 17th century knot garden filled with flowers and shrubs of the period has been created in the graveyard around the tombs of the famous 17th century plant hunters, the John Tradescants, father and son, and Captain William Bligh of the ‘Bounty’ Opening times: Open Daily 10.30am – 5.00pm (short closed period over Christmas and New Year, contact the Museum for details). Admission rates: Suggested donation Adults £3.00, Concessions £2.50 (Gift shop and café free). Facilities: Café, Gift shop, Toilets, Full disabled access, Library (by appointment only). Nearest tube: Lambeth North, Westminster or Waterloo.
The Museum of London – Can be found near City of London (also called Square Mile because of its size and it’s a place where Big Boys operate). Nearest Tube stations are St.Paul`s or Barbican. Its name says it all, and this museum will try to walk you through different eras of life of London. Roman relics are most impressive and they start on your entering of the museum. Ages before and after Great Fire of London are included as well as Georgian and Victorian London with articles of the early twentieth century till present times. The real treasure of Museum of London is though in exhibitions, lectures, walks and videos that are being held and organised throughout the year. Open from: Tues-Sat 10am-5:50pm, Sun noon-5:50pm. Tel: 0207 600 3699.
The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising – The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising is the result of consumer historian, Robert Opie, who saw the need to record the history of the products around us. Starting at the age of sixteen with a packet of Munchies, the Collection now extends to all aspects of daily life – toys, comics, magazines, newspapers, technology, travel, royal souvenirs, fashion and design. Robert says, ‘Whilst families tend to save mementoes from special occasions, it struck me that little was being done to keep the everyday material. When the thousands of pieces of this social history are assembled into some giant jigsaw, the picture becomes clearer as to the remarkable journey we have all come through’.
The Natural History Museum – Based in South Kensington near Hyde Park this museum is our favourite. T-Rex, click for larger imageThe entrance is in Exhibition Road, same as for Science Museum and please beware there is a great possibility of queues so nice, comfortable shoes are a MUST. Skeletons of reptiles are very good and a display of T-Rex excellent. Sabre-tooth tiger and carnivorous reptiles are sights to be seen. We can`t give enough praises to curators who have organised such a majestical show. Insect room is definitely not for people easily scared with bugs and arachnids. Here you will find real life exhibits, like life cycle of housefly. Ecology gallery, Mammals gallery, Mineral Gallery and Earth’s gallery that holds a 17-carat diamond and an emerald the size of lemon just call out to you. At the end you will be presented with Earth Today and Tomorrow where you can see what we as a human beings are doing to this planet. Pollution and destruction of Mother Earth are shown here. Open from: Mon-Sat 10am-5:50pm, Sun 11am-5:50pm. Tel: 0207 942 5000.
Going south-east to Greenwich or Maze Hill train station you would come upon the National Maritime Museum. Millions of pounds have been spent in redevelopment programme in preparation of Millennium celebrations. There is the sight of a 63-foot Royal Barge and Admiral Nelsons Gallery with his memorabilia. There is fun to be had for a younger audience in All Hands section and for more mature to take chance to steer a ship out of harbour on a computer-simulated deck. Open from: daily 10am-5pm. Tel: 0208 858 4422.
The RAF Museum – This one is on another side of town and nearest tube station is Colindale. RAF museum exhibitMind you, you will have a fair walk after station so if you are elderly or can’t walk try taking local Minicab or hail a Black-cab from the street. Models of planes are waiting for you and if you have children with you there is a Fun `n` Flight gallery where you can have a bit of fun. Open from: daily 10am-6pm. Tel: 0208 205 2266.
The Science Museum – close to South Kensington tube. Seven floors filled with items drawn from every area of science, including space travel, computing, chemistry, medicine and photography. Interactive displays you can find there are a pleasant change in the life of the museums. If you have a specific interest in any of the fields we have mentioned you can get a guided tour from people in museum. Definitely one of the best museums in London. Open from: daily 10am-6pm. Tel: 0207 938 8123.
The Sir John Soane’s Museum – The architect Sir John Soane’s house, museum and library at No. 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields has been a public museum since the early 19th century. On his appointment as Professor of Architecture at the Royal Academy in 1806 Soane began to arrange the Books, casts and models in order that the students might have the benefit of easy access to them. In 1833 Soane negotiated an Act of Parliament to settle and preserve the house and collection for the benefit of ‘amateurs and students’ in architecture, painting and sculpture.
The Victoria & Albert Museum – This is a home of applied arts. Due to the sheer variety and scale of exhibits there is bound to be something to grab your attention. The world`s largest collection of Indian art outside India, Chinese, Islamic, Japanese and Korean galleries, more Constable paintings than the Tate; seven Raphael masterpieces and sizable collection of miniatures, watercolours and medieval and Renaissance sculpture, plus many other things. Located near South Kensington tube station, at Cromwell road, SW7. Tel: 0207 942 2000.
The Wallace Collection – The Wallace Collection is both a national museum and the finest private collection of art ever assembled by one family. It was bequeathed to the nation by Lady Wallace, widow of Sir Richard Wallace, in 1897, and opened to the public just over three years later on 22 June 1900. Its first visitors were variously delighted, amazed and bemused. Among its treasures are one of the best collections of French 18th-century pictures, porcelain and furniture in the world, a remarkable array of 17th-century paintings and a superb armoury. The Wallace Collection is located at Hertford House, Manchester Square. Opening hours – Daily 10.00am until 5.00pm (Sundays 12.00pm until 5.00pm). Tel: 0207 563 9500.
Many officials and economists around the world claim that in spring 2009 the global economy passed the critical test for what lies ahead. Although, nobody can guarantee with certainty that the recession is over many believe that the economy showed glimpses of recovery. The stable and in some cases increasing prices in the housing market, the latest rally in the stock markets in Europe, Asia and the US are some of the reasons to be more optimistic for the future.
Nevertheless, both Ben Bernanke, the president of the Federal Reserve in the US and Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the head of IMF, claimed that the situation is still fragile and the recovery will be slow. With plans to inject even more money into troubled companies and sectors (the so called “statistical easiness”) it is almost certain that it will take longer than initially thought for economies to fully recover. In the UK, the Governor of the Bank of England Mervin King is under new pressures to print more money as GDP slumps again.
One of the sectors mainly affected by the recent developments in the economy is the labour market. The unemployment index has reached record levels in the UK and Europe and predictions are less promising for 2010. Latest data from the British Chambers of Commerce economic survey indicate that the UK recession is still very serious and that unemployment can be expected to grow rapidly in 2009 and 2010. So which job sectors can be considered “safe” and how the economic situation will affect the jobs market? We will analyse in this article the top 5 best performing public job sectors and which the safest career choices are at a time of economic slowdown. Are you safe in your existing job or do you welcome the opportunity to try something new?
This is a list (in no particular order) of the top 5 best performing public job sectors according to Public Jobs Direct. The analysis refers to the sector as a whole and presents future plans that strengthen will their performance.
Education
Latest figure show that the education sector is still going strong and for certain disciplines such as science teachers the situation is even more promising. With shortages for such skills across the majority of schools in the UK the demand for teachers is on the increase. The new plans of the government to invest in building more schools also gives a boost in the employment activity for this sector.
Health and Social Care
Similar to education health and social care seems to be a “recession-proof” sector. The government in an effort to reduce unemployment is not adopting job cutting practices in this sector and on the contrary continues to hire new personnel. Doctors, administrative staff and social care workers are still high in demand. The social care reform plan than was launched in early 2008 outlines the roadmap to help councils redesign and reshape their services and systems over the next 3 years.
Public Transport
Public spending on infrastructure is one of the popular measures governments adopt in order to stimulate the economy in situations such as a recession. Investing in public transport development helps both the employment market and at the same time improves the local communities. With the 2012 Olympics just 3 years away the government is planning to invest in certain infrastructure improvements such are trains and busses. Moreover a £1bn plan to electrify the main rail route between London and Swansea has been announced by the government.
Renewable Energy
This is another sector where the government is planning to invest heavily in the next few years. The prime minister unveiled that the plan is “to build up Britain’s clean power supply in order to reach the EU-imposed target of producing 15% of the country’s energy from renewable sources by 2020”. With a total investment that exceeds £100 billion the estimate is that the renewable energy programme would generate around 160,000 jobs.
IT
Despite some major job losses in the short term mainly in the financial sector, the IT sector is proving quite resistant in the mid to long term. After all, we live in a technology driven world. Many companies have the standard practice of cutting jobs in the IT infrastructure and outsource their operation in the short terms. But the demand for highly technical and skilled professionals drives the market. Companies will usually invest in new projects and systems (both software and hardware) in order prepare their in-house operations for the “day after the recession”. The demand for talented software designers and developers is currently growing and there seems to be an increasing trend for the next 4 years.
PublicJobsDirect is a leading recruiter for the public sector in the UK.
In order to cater to large number of visitors every year, there are several accommodation options. There are affordable London flats and London apartments for those who can’t afford to pay high London hotel rates. If you are planning to visit London, here is how you can save yourself from paying high prices on accommodation.
All you need to do is to make a thorough research on the internet. There are many websites that provide London Flats for single travellers, corporate travellers and groups travelling to London for holidays or for business meetings or seminars. You can get London Vacation Rental quotes from different websites and choose the deal that best meets your accommodation needs and budget. The London vacation rentals basically depend on the location of the London flats and the facilities offered by them. If you are willing to pay little more, you can get a luxurious London flat with all modern amenities. Otherwise, there are several London apartments that provide all the basic and modern facilities at a very affordable price.
London flats can offer the comfort and convenience similar to that provided by the expensive London hotels. Well furnished rooms, properly equipped kitchen, spacious living rooms and great amenities for a great holiday experience. This is not all. London vacation rentals are very reasonable. The money that you save can be better utilized elsewhere in London.
One website that can help you find the best London flats at affordable rates is London Choice. It offers a range of London flats and apartments in London for both short as well as long duration. At London Choice, you can also get London flats that offer ultimate comfort and luxury. Besides all the basic and modern facilities, you also get a maid and concierge to attend you and your family all the time. You can enjoy the flexibility and privacy that you can’t get in London hotels. Thus, London flats are perfect for those who want to get the services provided by London hotels without spending much money.
There are London Serviced Apartments for corporate travellers as well. They can rent them to get the most comfortable ambiance for carrying out their professional work. To know more about London vacation rentals and London flats, log on to londonchoice.com
Market shopping in London is part of its stylish culture. Whether you live in London or will soon be visiting for a holiday, going to one of London’s great markets to pick up a bargain is a MUST. But as London has so many markets to choose from in many different areas of the Capital, Exclusivelondon.co.uk are giving you a comprehensive list of London’s best markets known for their unique fashion items, delicious food and organic produce.
The Camden Markets (Camden High Street/Chalk Farm Road, Camden, London, NW1, Open: 7 days a week). The Camden Markets are an Exclusive London favourite! They full of weird and wonderful furniture and trinkets and funky-fresh fashion items and what’s best of all, everything is very affordable. As with most market places, you are able to negotiate quite a bit at some of the stalls, especially if you are buying a number of items.
Camden market is divided into several markets/streets: Camden Buck Street Market, Inverness Street, Camden Canal Market, Camden Lock Market, and Stables Market. The art of finding a real bargain is to investigate every nook and cranny of all of Camden’s markets and have a really good rummage. The markets are a real maze of treasures and just when you thought there was no more to see, you walk a little further and find another great shop or stall offering more great things! If you have a real eye for fashion and style, you should be able to visit a number of stalls and put together a really chic and original outfit.
Farmers’ Market (Essex Road, Islington/opposite Islington Green, London, N1, Open: Sun 10am-2pm) A great little Sunday market with an assortment of organic and freshly grown produce, including fruit, vegetables, eggs, scrumptious cheeses and meats. If you live in North London and you need to stock up on homemade preserves, chutneys and wines, the Farmers’ Market is the perfect choice.
Wembley Stadium Market (Stadium Way, Wembley, London, HA9 0WS, Open: Sundays, 9am-3pm, Nearest tube station: Wembley Park) This market is held in the car park opposite Wembley Stadium and has rows and rows of market traders and sellers. There are over 500 stalls here at the weekend, selling everything from women’s wear, menswear, shoes, lingerie and all the accessories ever needed – belts, bags and tons of costume jewellery.
Brick Lane Market (Brick Lane, Cheshire Street and Sclater Street, London, E1, Open: Sun 8am-2pm) Sundays are the best days to visit this lively market, as this sees the arrival of hundreds of stalls selling clothing, fabrics, jewellery bric-a-brac and leather goods.
Leather Lane Market (Leather Lane, London, EC1N, Open: Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm, Nearest tube station: Chancery Lane/Farringdon) This market stretches all the way along Leather Lane (between Greville Street and the Clerkenwell Road) and it sells everything from clothes and shoes to jewellery and handbags.
Billingsgate Fish Market (Trafalgar Way, Isle of Dogs, London, E14 5ST, Open: Tue-Sat 5am-8:30am) As well as being London’s most famous fish market, Billingsgate is the UKs largest market. Its open to members of the public, so set your alarm (as it’s only open from 5am – 8:30am) and head down there for the freshest fish and seafood in the country.
Covent Garden Market (The Piazza, Covent Garden, London, WC2E, Open: Mon-Fri, 10.30am-7.30pm, nearest underground station: Covent Garden) A variety of unique and handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing and antiques are sold in the colonnaded North Hall of Covent Garden. New to Covent Garden is the Food Lover’s market held on the second Friday of each month with quality vetted producers selling a variety of fresh and seasonal British produce. Take time out to also explore the speciality shops, a welcome alternative to the high street, and watch some of London’s best street entertainment in the Piazza.
Petticoat Lane Market (Middlesex Street and Wentworth Street, Aldgate, London, E1 Open: Mon-Fri 10am-2:30pm, Sun 9am-2pm) Petticoat Lane is one of the East End’s most famous, oldest and biggest markets, comprising of well-over a thousand stalls. Taking up an area in and around Middlesex St/Wentworth St, Sunday is arguably the best day for bargains on fashions, Asian fabrics, textiles and jewellery. Roman Rd Market (Roman Road, London, E3, Open: Tue/Thu/Sat 9am-5.30pm, nearest tube station: Bow Road/Mile End) Roman Road market is a good ol’ traditional East End market with stalls selling all manner of goods, including beauty products, shoes, clothes and lots of accessories. There are some great food stalls too selling a range of fresh produce. Well worth a visit.
Spitalfield Market (Commercial Street, London, E1, Open: Mon-Fri 11am-5:00pm, Sun 10am-5pm) An Exclusive London favourite for fashion jewellery, clothing, homewares and organic food. Sunday is the best day to visit this fab market as you can also visit Brick Lane market too, which is not too far away. We suggest getting there nice and early as there’s loads to see.
Walthamstow Market (Walthamstow High Street, London, E17, Open: Mon-Sun 8am-6pm, nearest tube station: Walthamstow Central/St James’s Central) With many stalls selling a large variety of clothing, shoes and costume jewellery, Walthamstow Market is Europe’s longest street market and very popular with Londoners. Sunday is the nicest day to go as there are fresh produce stalls and cute craft stalls which you just can’t help but buy something from!
Whitechapel Market (Whitechapel Rd, London, E1, Open: Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm, nearest tube station: Aldgate) This market is one of the best Asian markets in London, as it boasts a wide-range of Indian jewellery, clothing, fabrics and fine silk/cotton saris.
Portobello Road Market (Portobello Road, London, W11, Open: Sat 8am 3pm, nearest tube station: Ladbroke Grove/Notting Hill Gate) Portobello market is HUGE! It has more than one and a half thousand stall holders and some enclosed arcades too. Although the market is primarily associated with the antiques trade, it is also a great place to find great clothes and second-hand records.
Greenwich Market (Greenwich, London, SE10, Open: Thurs – Sun from 9:30am-5.30pm nearest station: Greenwich or Cutty Sark) In the heart of historic Greenwich, the arts and craft market in College Approach sells a range of traditional handmade craftwork and original artwork. While in Greenwich High Rd, there is an antiques market selling pre-1960 antiques on Thurs from 0900-1700. Have a good look around – Greenwich is a beautiful area and even if you don’t find anything you like in the markets, you’re bound to stubble upon a nice bar or restaurant that you can spend an hour or two in.
Brixton Market (Electric Avenue/Pope’s Road/Station Road, London SW9, Open: Mon – Sat 9am to 6pm, except Wed when it’s open 9am to 3pm) Mosey on down to Brixton Market if you are looking for Caribbean and African foods, fruits, vegetables and spices. It’s also a good spot for fresh and cooked fish, breads and arts and crafts.
Borough Market (8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL, Tel: 020 7402 1002, Open: Saturday 9am-4pm) Borough Market is an utterly scrumptious market which offers amazing fresh and organic foods and produce. There is a plethora of meats, cheeses, sauces, breads, cakes and nibbles (including chutneys, olives, sun-dried tomatoes etc) and the air is filed with mouth-watering aromas. Head down there nice and early on a Saturday morning to stock up on these fresh foods. An ExclusiveLondon.co.uk favourite!
Bermondsey Market (New Caledonian Market – Bermondsey Square, SE1, Open: Friday 6am-2pm) If antiques are your thing, then this is the market for you. Bursting with antiques, furniture and knick-knacks, Bermondsey Market or New Caledonian Market is a bargain haven.
New Covent Garden Flower Market (Nine Elms Lane, London, SW8, Open: Mon-Fri 3am-11am, Sat 4am-10am, nearest tube: Vauxhall) New Covent Garden Flower Market is a sight for sore eyes. Your senses are filled with colours, textures and scents. You can buy every kind of flower and plant available. But you’ll have to wake up bright and early if you want to catch the opening hours of this market, but it really is worth it!
In spite of the UK’s emergence from recession lagging behind the rest of Europe, London is still an international business powerhouse. According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the financial services centre drives more than £200bn of revenue into the UK economy each year.
Although central London is booming with business activity, parts of the city are still struggling. Contrary to popular belief London’s streets aren’t paved with gold. The truth is – they sparkle with opportunity. The challenge for someone walking down hope street is understanding how to make the most of their potential in the current climate.
Chantél du Plooy takes a look at the capital’s prospects for jobs, housing and economic growth.
Looking ahead
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has been given the task to produce a planning strategy for the capital. The second draft of the strategy, called the London Plan, is currently open to public consultation.
In the foreword of the London Plan, the Mayor makes his aim for the city’s future perfectly clear: “I want London to be the best big city on earth.
”That means a place that brims with opportunity and talent and economic activity of all kinds, but also one where the pace of life can suddenly slow from one street to the next; where children can grow up in safety – where people can be seen walking or cycling with no purpose other than enjoyment.”
London’s future encompasses five elements: becoming the world’s capital of business, improving competitiveness, developing into a low carbon economy, extending Londoners’ opportunity and investing in the capital’s potential.
Through these five strategies, previously disadvantaged areas will become key focus points.
In East London alone, 333,800 homes will be built by 2031. In North East London, Harrow and Wealdstone will receive significant support in areas such as retail, industrial and housing developments.
Although the increase in housing will impact jobs in London there is a need for drastic job creation. The Mayor plans to tackle unemployment in the capital through combating skill shortages. He will address low skills through encouraging effective education, training and support for all.
Business confidence
The latest ONS figures unveiled that the UK GDP shrank by 0.4% in the third quarter. Even though we didn’t need any confirmation, we now know that we are in the longest recession since 1955.
But there is also good news for London. It was recently crowned the best city in Europe to locate a business. The European Cities Monitor report from Cushman & Wakefield has awarded London with this honour for the 20th consecutive year.
UK Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business, Lord Davies of Abersoch commented: “Since the collapse of Lehman Brothers just over a year ago, London has been through a pretty turbulent time. This year’s survey, however, is evidence that it has not lost its position as Europe’s and probably the world’s leading business and financial centre.
”Major corporates clearly still recognise that its critical mass of talent, facilities and infrastructure combine to deliver a compelling location for business.”
London is home to more than 30% of the world’s largest companies. The investment of over 500 foreign corporations like Coca-Cola, Canon and Virgin has created more than 11,000 London jobs between April 2008 and March 2009.
Regardless of the downturn in the current economy, business leaders in London remain positive. A recent report from London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) revealed that more than half (52%) of 185 London firms are confident about the city’s future.
”Businesses in the capital are increasingly confident about their own firm’s prospects and that of the wider economy,” LCCI chief executive Colin Stanbridge told BBC News.
The perfect host
London has already plunged deep into its pockets to get the capital ready for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics Games. The event has created numerous jobs, infrastructure and business opportunities.
An international event of this magnitude creates an occasion for London to promote itself as a tourism, sport and leisure attraction; as well as an economic and business hub.
If the Olympic Games prove to be the billion pound success organisers expect, the capital might transform much quicker than anticipated.
It’s clear that while London is suffering, the Mayor isn’t sitting around helpless. Through proactive strategies and the help of Londoners, Britain’s capital will prosper.
Chantel is a regular contributor of career advice and jobs news for leading UK Job Board http://www.careersandjobsuk.com Link text
Does London city attract you? Are you looking forward to your forthcoming business or pleasure trip to London? Are you confused how and where to search for good London Hotels. If these are some of the questions that are bothering you, then you must take out time to surf through the internet to land good London hotels.
Do not be worried by the number of hotels in London. Before you search your London hotels keep in mind these criterias that will assist you in selecting your London hotel. They are price, location, size, style, rate and availability. Also keep in mind not to judge any hotel based on corporate websites as they tend to promote certain hotels for their corporate benefits.
First thing is to select your location as to where you want to stay during your family trip. If you are a business traveler you may select locations that are close to your business conference or are near business establishments. Find out all the nearest hotels in your preferred destinations. Secondly, you can check the prices of London hotel in your destination and check it whether it is within your budget. Next thing is to check about the size, whether the hotel is spacious enough to accommodate your big family or your bunch of friends. If you are traveling alone you can look for hotel with smaller rooms. For style conscious people, it is better to investigate about the style, if the decoration is contemporary, traditional or a blend of both. However, if you want to now about the hotel rating, this you can do by examining the ratings in various websites and by analyzing the reviews. But a word of caution, do not be swayed away by the reviews alone which may not be authentic. If possible try to contact people who had stayed in the hotel. Last but not the least, checking the availability is the most important thing.
If you want to avail of great discounts in London hotels, book your hotel in advance. This way you avoid last minute disappointment and have the privilege to select your choicest London hotels in your preferred location.
Spend some time on internet and use your discretion to bag the real deals of London Hotels!!
Until the coming of railway networks in the 19th century, London was a city which was more familiar with coaching inns and lodging houses. With the coming of the railways, there was also development in the hotel industry, to cater the visitors with proper accommodation. The history of London is long and exciting. There are millions of pages dedicated for London describing it as an amazing city in England; you can almost realize the ghosts of London on your visit while staying in the best London hotels.
London has a large number of best London hotels which can easily fulfill all the needs and requirements of the tourists on their visit to the city. London of 21st century is known for having a wide range of hotels which vary from traditional grand giants like the Ritz and the Savoy, modern chains like the Four Seasons and Hilton, to townhouse hotels like the Darlington Hyde Park. Though there are different hotels in London but people long to stay in London luxury hotels as they are provided with all the facilities. But as they are highly expensive, people vote for their stay in other budget hotels. Most of the best London hotels are concentrated around Heathrow Airport, Knightsbridge, Kensington, Mayfair and many others.
The best thing about London luxury hotels is that they are classified into different stars depending on their services. Moreover, the location of the London luxury hotels also matter as they stand in some of the most expensive districts of London. However, as most of the people visiting London cannot afford luxury hotel room, there are several budget hotels in the city for this reason. For this reason, budget hotels in London are also very important. London budget hotels are found located close to bus station or train station thus satisfying the travelers who do not wish to spend extra money to reach their best London hotels where they are staying.
London, the capital of England, is the most urban area in the United Kingdom. It is one of the worldâs leading financial, business and cultural centers and contributes to be a major global city. It houses four major world heritage sites and one of the major developed areas in the world. Not only this, but London is one of the major touristâs destinations in the world because of several sightseeing tours, parks, gardens, palaces and world famous towers. Due to all these attractions, hotels in London England are well established to provide comfortable accommodation to tourists with several facilities and amenities.
It is beyond doubt that London is well developed city and attracts tourists from the world around. In order to make the provision for touristsâ stay, there is wide network of hotels ranging from star hotels to cheap London hotels, to suit the taste and budget of every traveler. It is ineffable to describe the luxury for travelers in star hotels in London England. The immediate service and warm hospitality of the hotel staffs give the feeling of homely comfort to its visitors.
The visitors to London can easily come across many London airport hotels, which are located in proximity to airport. Most of these hotels include beautiful garden and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy several types of English and international dishes. The array of facilities offered at such hotels is excellent. It covers a wide range of network such as restaurant, bar, soundproof rooms; spa, sauna, pool, etc forms a long list. There are many hotels around touristsâ attractions that add fun to your trip. Travelers can find hotel through London hotel map, which gives you entire elaboration of hotels in London and their location.
Such London hotel map provides ease to travelers to pre-decide the hotel to stay and several touristsâ attractions to view. All these decisions can be taken according to oneâs own need. The traveler visiting London for exploring the city can go for some cheap hotel or star hotels on the basis of his affordability or in proximity to the places to be explored by him. A business traveler can look for the comfort of other members or for the facilities of various meeting and conference rooms offered.
The accommodation can be booked online through several agencies, which make the necessary lodging arrangements for the tourists, who might be busy in exploring the sightseeing views of the city. These online booking website have lended a helping hand to travelers in making arrangements for them in advance to save them from hustle and enjoy their trip.
The hospitality sector has become increasingly completive and active in the last few decades. People traveling to a place need hotels and this used to be a source of recurring expense for the travelers in the past. However, owing to the stiff competition in the tourism and hospitality sector, inexpensive hotels have sprung up in the hot tourist destinations. The city of London is no exception and there are many cheap London luxury hotels to choose from. Keep in mind the basic fact that cheap Hotels do not necessarily mean inferior quality hotels. On the other hand, some of these hotels provide the best value for money to a traveler. One can find such hotels in an area easily by searching online.
Usually, the travelers looking for Cheap Hotels do not need to book in advance since in most of the instances they are required to stay for a few hours. Even the relatively expensive hotels in a place offer services and rooms at a lower rate if a person books in off season. For locating the best inexpensive hotels, one can contact the travel agents. Online travel agencies are also available. So if you are planning to go for London Budget hotel talk to your travel agent before you plan the tour.
As a matter of fact, there are some Cheap Hotels that have tie ups with several online travel agencies. Sometimes the customers are given the chance of booking at a discounted rate if they book online. The cheap hotels offer discounts throughout the year to boost their profit margins and as part of promotion. Online booking is particularly helpful for people who need a discount London hotel in the nick of time. With a little careful search, good deals for lodging can be availed.
The best way to find Cheap Hotels London UK that gives quality services at a reasonable price is searching for the website of those hotels. The customers need to see what kind of services the hotels provide. In case a person can not locate a cheap hotel in a region he can look for boarding houses. Some no frills airlines also have collaborations with budget hotels and when a person avails the service of the airline he is given discount on the hotel’s service as a part of the package. In this case, the customer stands to gain as these hotels arrange for cheap car rentals for tours and sightseeing for him.
People looking for Cheap Hotels can also look up the coupon booklets. These coupons usually are given in online and offline contests and also by companies. If a person searches these booklets carefully he can stumble across lucrative deals for inexpensive hotels in various locations.
