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Online Information for Backpackers about LONDON! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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According to Samuel Johnson, when a man is bored of London he is bored of life. There are hundreds of ways to spend your time in the capital, but it’s worth doing some research beforehand if you want to do more than just skim the surface. Exploding Cinema (www.explodingcinema.org) is one of the city’s best-kept secrets, and is definitely worth investigating if you’re into independent film. The group runs regular open screenings at locations across the city, so whether you’re a budding director or just want a change from standard multiplex fare you’re sure to meet some enthusiastic, like-minded people. The very first motion picture was filmed in London’s Hyde Park, which has its own creative outlet in the form of the famous Speaker’s Corner. Stop by on a Sunday and listen to passionate people air their views, or even step up yourself if there’s something you need to get off your chest. If that all sounds a bit too intellectual, there’s nothing wrong with indulging in a spot of good, old-fashioned tourism. Madame Tussaud’s, the Tower of London and the London Aquarium are hugely popular, and for a very good reason they’re fantastic. by Cat Hackforth sights to see:- The Houses of Parliament with Big Ben Tower Bridge Buckingham Palace Trafalgar Square The Tower of London Tate Gallery of Modern Art London Eye - Millennium Wheel city greenland St James Park: Originally created as recreational ground for Henry VIII. At a later date Charles II made this central spot into a public park. Hyde Park: This vast area of open space covers 630 acres and has a perimetre of 4 miles. The Serpentine Lake is popular for boating and sailing. Regent Park: Home to London Zoo, this civilised park is surrounded by Regency buildings. The Royal Botanic Garden, Kew: Situated on the banks between Richmond and Kew in South-West London. The Gardens comprise of 132 hectares and include a very extensive arboretum, water features, some of the world's largest and most famous botanical glasshouses, and many historic buildings. Battersea Park: Head south over the river and find the park between Albert Bridge and Chelsea Bridge. On the 14th June the park will have a celebratory 150th Birthday Party. Head on over and join in the fun! dover castle hostel Some time ago, the Dover Castle reception phone rang. A voice complained that he had reserved a bed, but that he was being turned away. Confused, reception asked exactly where he was. He claimed he was over the drawbridge, just past the iron portcullis! To make it clear, the Dover Castle Hostel is not the large castle in Kent. It is a backpackers’ hostel close to London Bridge! They don’t have a drawbridge, a moat or any dungeons. But they do have a bar with cheap drinks, a kitchen and free wifi. They also have amazing people: Katie from Queensland, Shinelle the Trinidadian angel, and Jason who promptly lost his passport upon his arrival! Tell these people what you are looking for. History lovers can take a daily walking tour. Party animals should grab a bar discount card and join their merry band of drinkers. If you wish to make London your home, move into one of their house shares. For those looking to chill out, visit their other hostel 'Kipps' in picturesque Canterbury and laze in their comfy hammocks. Your life; your choice! Check out www.dovercastlehostel.co.uk. colourful markets
Did you know? Half the city burned down in the Great Fire of London in 1666, but only six people were injured. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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