Only in London Itinerary: Westminster and the South Bank

Spend a day wandering around Westminster and the South Bank and you'll be spoilt for choice. From grand Royal residences and historic gems to cultural delights on the river, London is full of surprises!

Morning – Historic and Royal London

Prepare for a busy morning of sightseeing, as Westminster is home to some of London's most important buildings. Begin your journey through London's fascinating history with a trip to Westminster Abbey. This stunning 700-year-old church is the resting place of a host of literary greats, as well as 17 British monarchs.

Nearby you'll find Jewel Tower, part of the original Palace of Westminster, which was built in 1365 to house the King's personal treasures. After a fire destroyed most of the palace in 1834, the building was recreated in an imposing Gothic style to form the Houses of Parliament. Follow the road to see Big Ben, the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.

Just a short walk away is the fascinating Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms: Churchill's secret underground headquarters. The offices are preserved exactly as they were when Churchill left them in 1945.

Finish your morning with a walk along Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of Her Majesty The Queen. During the summer, you can take a tour of the 19 State Rooms, each lavishly decorated and filled with Royal treasures.

Lunch in Trafalgar Square

For an incredible view, head to the Roof Gardens at the stylish Trafalgar Hotel. It's the perfect spot for a glass of bubbly while taking in the magnificent sights around Trafalgar Square and beyond.

For great value, tasty lunches in a unique and atmospheric venue, stop by the Café in the Crypt under St Martin-in-the-Fields Church. Dine beneath brick-vaulted ceilings with historic gravestones underfoot.

Walk off your lunch in two of London's best art galleries. See the world's largest collection of portraits at the National Portrait Gallery, which is also home to the world's oldest portrait. Right next door is the National Gallery, which houses one of the greatest collections of Western European painting in the world, including Van Gogh's famous Sunflowers.

A Cultural Afternoon on the South Bank

Cross the Thames via the award-winning Golden Jubilee Bridge. From here you can't miss the towering London Eye. At 135m tall, it is the world's largest observation wheel, offering spectacular views of London.

Follow the pathway along the South Bank, London's cultural hub and you'll soon reach the National Theatre. Take a backstage tour to discover some of the secrets behind the theatre's productions, including the huge drum revolve that powers the world's most impressive rotating stage.

Just past Blackfriars bridge sits Tate Modern. Once a disused power station, this space is now the world's most popular museum of modern art.

It's a short step from modern art to medieval theatre, as Shakespeare's Globe, a faithfully reconstructed open-air playhouse, is right next door. As well as atmospheric performances, this unique venue has an informative exhibition and tour.

For a cultural tour with a difference, check out nearby Vinopolis. This 2.5-acre site is devoted entirely to wines from around the globe. The self-guided tasting tour takes you through the world's leading wine producing regions, with an opportunity to choose from a selection of more than 130 wines.

Dinner on the Thames

Finally, round off an amazing day with an unforgettable dining experience. As well as glamorous surroundings and delicious food, Skylon boasts some of the best views of London from its stunning floor-to-ceiling windows.

Alternatively, treat yourself to a wonderful Dinner Cruise along the Thames. Simply sit back and enjoy the onboard entertainment as you sail past London's dramatic skyline.

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