Only in Westminster

On the north bank of the river Thames, the area of London called Westminster grew up around Westminster Abbey. Home to Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Westminster (or Houses of Parliament) and Big Ben, Westminster is rich in history and culture.

Not only that, Westminster offers some of the best shopping in London, as well as some of the best entertainment.

We spoke to local expert Joe Chalmers about this fascinating area of London.

Can you recommend some entertainment on a night out?

For a romantic take night in the West End there is no better show then Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical The Phantom of the Opera. I love this musical, it's a love story about a beautiful opera singer and a young composer; it's the perfect show after a dinner for two in the heart of London.

If I want to catch a show that's less romantic and more about tapping my feet, I look no further than Hairspray. The smash hit musical has attracted massive audiences since it first opened back in 2007 – as well as many an award, with most recent being the prestigious Olivier award for Best Actor to legendary West End superstar Michael Ball. 

I have heard the West End is the best place for shopping in London, but where do I start?

The best place for me is the fabulous Selfridges, with its cool window displays, its amazing choice of cutting-edge fashion and its inimitable glamour and style.

This year, Selfridges is 100 years old and they're celebrating from May and throughout the summer. I've heard there's going to be a captivating mix of visual treats and engaging events for all shoppers.

I want to see the sights of Westminster, what can you recommend?

I never get bored of visiting Buckingham Palace. Its splendid magnificence is breath-taking even though I see it almost every day! The Guard Changing Ceremony takes place at 11am at Horse Guards. The mounted sentries (who change every hour) are on duty each day from 10am until 4pm.

[Check beforehand as the ceremony only takes place on certain days. Visit the Royal Website for a full schedule.]

From Buckingham Palace you can easily walk to other great London sights including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, St James' Palace and 10 Downing Street.

Does Westminster have a unique place you like to go to chill out after work?

I'd recommend heading to the National Gallery on a Friday evening. Not a lot of people know its open till 9pm, so you can enjoy some of the quieter areas without the weekend crowds. I'm always thrilled you can see so much amazing art for free right here in Westminster; and make sure you don't miss those Sunflowers!