Central London:

British Airways London Eye The British Airways London Eye is the world's highest observation wheel and its 30-minute slow-moving flight gives unrivalled views over London. From its steel and glass capsules, you can peek into the back garden of Buckingham Palace and, on a clear day, see across seven counties.

River Cruise Experience The London Eye River Cruise Experience departs conveniently from our pier at the London Eye. Highlights of the 40 minute circular cruise include St Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern and the Millennium bridge. Includes live commentary and a souvenir guide map (map in seven languages). Suitable in all weather as the boat has both covered and sun deck seating. Both decks are accessible for wheelchair users. Toilets are available onboard.

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace is open to the public from 30 July until 27 September 2005. This is the official London residence of the Queen and you can visit the magnificent State Rooms, where over the centuries, the wealthy and the powerful have walked. Open daily in summer.

London Dungeon The London Dungeon is setting the streets on fire with a brand new 'hot' attraction - The Great Fire of London. You can also take a barge trip down the River Thames on the Judgement Day ride to face a firing squad, after being sentenced to death by a sombre 18th century judge! There's also a torture chamber and the chance to unmask Jack the Ripper - the infamous serial killer. It's not suitable for very young children or those of a nervous disposition!

London Zoo London Zoo is one of the world's most famous zoos and is home to over 12,000 animals. Meet the Animals shows are held daily, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the animals from their keepers. Rare and beautiful animals can be seen in the Aquarium, Elephant House, Penguin Pool, Snowdon Aviary and the new Web of Life exhibition. Highlights include glimpses of the Gaint Anteater, Sloth Bears and cub on Bear Mountain.

Madame Tussaud's Madame Tussaud's Waxwork Museum is the world famous collection of wax figures of the notable and notorious, everyone from Sigmund Freud to Madonna. Recent additions include their new interactive experiences section where you can try out as a Pop Idol, be snapped by the paparazzi, get up close and personal to serial killers and explore the galaxy. Relive David Beckham’s moment of glory as he scores against Greece to qualify in dramatic fashion for the World Cup and squeeze Brad Pitt’s beguiling biceps.

St Paul's Cathedral St Paul's Cathedral is one of the world's most famous cathedrals, designed by Sir Christopher Wren. This classical cathedral represents inspiration and craftsmanship on a grand scale. The Light of the World by Holman Hunt is its most famous work of art, but it also contains fabulous carvings, statues and mosaics.

Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and Exhibition is the fascinating story of the re-creation of Shakespeare's beloved playhouse. Visitors can see the reconstructed Elizabethan theatre, built with materials, techniques and craftsmanship of 400 years ago. The world's largest Shakesperian exhibition explores the playwright's London, Elizabethan theatre and the Shakespeare's influence around the world. The summer season of plays sees Shakespeare performed in an authentic setting.

Tate Modern This impressive gallery shows international modern art from 1900 to present day including Dali, Picasso, Matisse and Warhol, plus contemporary works by Gilbert and George. The breathtaking Turbine Hall runs the length of building, creating a massive exhibition space, designed by Swiss architects Hertzog and de Meuron. There are special exhibitions and a cafe with outstanding views over the river.

Tower of London At The Tower of London, guarded by the celebrated Beefeaters, visitors can see Traitors' Gate, the priceless Crown Jewels and the famous ravens. Over the centuries, this amazing building has been a fortress, prison, palace and even a zoo. The carefully restored medieval part of the Tower is brought alive by costumed guides. There is also exhibitions of armour and swords and you can see the spot where the notorious second wife of Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, was beheaded.

Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey is one of Europe's finest Gothic buildings and the scene of coronations, marriages and burials of British monarchs. It dates back to the 11th century, and highlights include the Coronation Chair made in 1300, Poets' Corner and the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.

Out of London:

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU. Hampton Court Palace promises a magical journey back through 500 years of history. Discover the intrigue of life at court as costumed guided tours, sound guides and family trails bring the palace to life. For advance tickets call 0870 753 7777 or visit www.hampton-court-palace.org.uk

Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Richmond, Surrey, TW9 3AB. Kew Gardens World Heritage site is paradise throughout the seasons. Seven magnificent glasshouses display plants from the world's deserts, mountains and oceans. Discover inspiration at every step.

Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB. Beautiful garden of 240 acres. Alpines, herbaceous borders, fruit field, arboretum, rock garden, rhododendrons, lakes, glasshouses. Cafe and restaurant, plant centre and shop. On A3, junction 10 of the M25.

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum The Museum, set within Centre Court, chronicles the game of lawn tennis from its origins in the 1870s to the present day. Highlights include a view of the world-famous Centre Court and the original Championships' trophies. Watch video footage of great players in action and admire tennis memorabilia that dates back to 1555. Also available is an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds at Wimbledon. Both individuals and pre-booked groups of 15 or more have the opportunity to explore the grounds of The Championships and enjoy sights such as Centre Court, No 1 Court, the Fred Parry Statue and the Press Interview Room.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle is one of three official residences of The Queen and has been home to the Sovereign for over 900 years. The Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation. The imposing towers and battlements of the Castle loom large from every approach to the town, creating one of the world's most spectacular skylines. No other royal residence has played such an important role in the nation's history.

Leeds Castle A magnificent, small and charming, medieval castle built on two small islands in a lake in 500 acres of parkland and gardens. Collection of furnishings, tapestries and paintings. Museum of dog collars. Avaries, maze, grotto, duckery and vineyard.

Thames Cruises In an age of constant change, the upper reaches of the Thames have lost none of the magic that has enchanted the onlooker for centuries. The most picturesque stretch, from Henley to Windsor and beyond, offers an unrivalled variety of buildings and landscapes, much of it totally unspoilt by the encroachment of modern life. A cruise could take in the view of majestic Windsor Castle, Cliveden's spectacular house and grounds, historic bridges, or pass through locks whose origins are centuries old. Enjoy the passing bird life which abounds along the river, with glimpses of various breeds of duck, grebes, swans, geese, herons and perhaps even a kingfisher. A pastime as old as the Thames himself. A guaranteed way for you and your friends to relax and unwind.

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