London, England

Located on London's Southbank, the London Eye is a must see for any London traveler. Standing at 135 meters tall, making it the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, the London Eye affords visitors magnificent views of the city from one of its 32 capsules,

Located on London's Southbank, the London Eye is a must see for any London traveler. Standing at 135 meters tall, making it the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, the London Eye affords visitors magnificent views of the city from one of its 32 capsules, each with a capacity of up to 25 people. Designed by renowned architects Sir Eliot Khalil, Julia Barfield, Malcolm Cook, Mark Sparrowhawk, Steven Chilton and Nic Bailey, the capsules rotate at a speed of 26 centimeters per second or approximately 0.9 kilometers per hour, hence one complete revolution should take around half an hour. This is arguably one of London's most famous landmarks, enjoyed by over three million people every year.

Individual capsules are available for private rentals for up to 25 guests, and several themed capsule events are available, such as Champagne cocktails and wine tastings. The London Eye is open daily, October to May, from 10 AM to 8 PM; daily in June from 10 AM to 9 PM; daily, July and August, from 10 AM to 9:30 PM; and daily in September from 10 AM to 9 PM. A standard trip ticket costs £7.75 for children ages 5-15, £15.50 for adults and £12 for seniors ages 60 and older. Tickets for children under 5 are free.

Designed by William Winde in the 18th century for the Duke of Buckingham, his palace is one of the most iconic British landmarks and hottest tourist spots of the city. Serving as the official royal residence since 1837, the palace is currently home

Designed by William Winde in the 18th century for the Duke of Buckingham, his palace is one of the most iconic British landmarks and hottest tourist spots of the city. Serving as the official royal residence since 1837, the palace is currently home to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip.

Visitors will enjoy observing the State Rooms, opulently decorated with one-of-a-kind Rembrandt paintings, Canova sculpture and English and French furniture, among other treasures, or exploring the palace garden, home to over 350 different wild flowers. The Royal Mews house carriages and cars of the State, while the Queen's Gallery showcases some of the Queen's most treasured personal items including nearly 7,000 paintings, 40,000 watercolors and drawings and approximately 150,000 old master prints, tapestries, furniture, ceramics and books.

Buckingham Palace visitors can also see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, held daily, May to June, and every other day during the rest of the year at 11:30 AM. Completed by the iconic red jacket and bearskin-wearing guards, the ceremony lasts about five minutes and is a popular draw for guests.

The State Rooms and garden are open daily, July to September, from 9:45 AM to 6 PM. The Royal Mews are open Saturday through Thursday, March 15 to July 28 and September 30 to October 30, from 11 AM to 4 PM, and daily, July 29 to September 29, from 10 AM to 5 PM. The Queen's Gallery is open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. Admission varies based on attraction. The cost of "A Royal Day Out" ticket, which includes the State Rooms, Royal Mews and the Queen's Garden, is £16 for children ages 5-16, £28.50 for adults and £25 for students and seniors ages 60 and older.

Parliament is easy to spot in the London cityscape due to its notable clock tower known as Big Ben. At 96 meters tall, the iconic clock and bell, to which its name actually refers, is known for its reliability, having had only one major breakdown in

Parliament is easy to spot in the London cityscape due to its notable clock tower known as Big Ben. At 96 meters tall, the iconic clock and bell, to which its name actually refers, is known for its reliability, having had only one major breakdown in 1976. Its seven-meter-wide faces are made of up 312 pieces of opal glass, which up close resemble stained glass.

Under the tower's watchful gaze, the United Kingdom's House of Commons and House of Lords meet in separate chambers of the House of Parliament, or Palace of Westminster. Formed in 1707, the U.K. parliament is the largest Anglophone legislative body in the world. Visitors can grab a seat for watching debates and judicial hearings or observing laws being made at the public galleries, and stop by the Parliamentary Archives to explore millions of historical records from both houses.

The Parliamentary Archives are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Tours of Big Ben are open only to U.K. residents over the age of 11. Tours are free and must be arranged through residents' MPs. U.K. residents and overseas visitors can tour Parliament during the summer opening, usually around July to September. The 75-minute tours run Monday through Saturday, with hours varying based on day and month. Only U.K. residents can tour Parliament throughout the rest of the year; tour hours and schedules vary based on day. Summer opening tours are £5 for children ages 5-16, £8 for students and £12 for adults. Non-summer opening tours for U.K. residents are free.

Opened in 1881, the Natural History Museum is one of three museums, the others being the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Science Museum, situated on Exhibition Road in the heart of Kensington. With millions of visitors going through the turnstiles

Opened in 1881, the Natural History Museum is one of three museums, the others being the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Science Museum, situated on Exhibition Road in the heart of Kensington. With millions of visitors going through the turnstiles annually, this is one of London's most famous places to visit. Comprised of more than 65 million life and earth specimens, the museum features five principal galleries in the areas of botany, mineralogy, paleontology, entomology and zoology. Visitors can admire the renowned collection of dinosaur skeletons, including that of a Diplodocus, one of the longest land animals to ever live. Guests also marvel at the skeleton and model of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling or stop by the newly-opened Darwin Centre, which houses thousands of preserved specimens, such as the 8.6-meter-long giant squid "Archie".

The museum has four exclusive venues for private events, two of which are specifically tailored for evening functions and two of which are for conference events. The Central Hall with its cathedral influences is regarded as one of the most dramatic spaces to hold an event in the capital and can cater for evening events of 100 to 650 people or receptions of up to 1,200 guests. The Earth Galleries can hold up to 200 guests; the 200-seat Flett Theatre has an adjacent boardroom for up to 20 people; and the bright, open Mary Anning Room has space for up to 60 people. The Natural History Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. Admission is free, though some special exhibitions may require additional charges. Limited meter parking is available.

Designed by one of Britain's famous sons Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral is a remarkable piece of architecture seated on Ludgate Hill in the heart of the city. Completed in 1711, the church rises to a heady 108 meters and boasts Portland

Designed by one of Britain's famous sons Sir Christopher Wren, St. Paul's Cathedral is a remarkable piece of architecture seated on Ludgate Hill in the heart of the city. Completed in 1711, the church rises to a heady 108 meters and boasts Portland stone and a striking dome shape that was inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. One of London's most visited sites, the cathedral was used for the marriage of Prince Charles to Lady Diana, and is the final resting site of former Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, British Military Commander Charles Cornwallis and Lord Nelson. Visitors can climb the 530 steps leading to the Golden Gallery, where some of the best skyline views of London are to be found, or take a guided two-hour tour of the cathedral and crypt.

St. Paul's Cathedral is open for sightseeing Monday through Saturday from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. For non-worshipping visitors, admission is £3.50 for children ages 7-16, £10 for adults, £8.50 for students and £9 for seniors. Group rates are available. Additional tour prices vary.

The Southbank Centre by the River Thames is situated between County Hall and Waterloo Bridge. Consisting of three buildings - Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Hayward art gallery - Southbank is Europe's biggest arts center. After two

The Southbank Centre by the River Thames is situated between County Hall and Waterloo Bridge. Consisting of three buildings - Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Hayward art gallery - Southbank is Europe's biggest arts center. After two years of renovations, the Royal Festival Hall re-opened in 2007 and hosts many concerts, dances and talks for up to 3,900 guests. The Queen Elizabeth Hall is well-known as a music venue, holding daily music performances, while the Hayward gallery is one of the remaining examples of 1960s Brutalist architecture and features temporary art exhibits throughout the year. In the rare event that these culture-rich venues don't keep guests busy, several bars, cafes and restaurants also populate the area.

Southbank Centre is a wealth of unique spaces for private events. Large events can be held at the Royal Festival Hall Auditorium, with a capacity of 2,500 people, or the Queen Elizabeth Hall auditorium, with a capacity for 900 people. The Waterloo Sunset Pavilion at the Hayward and Westminster Roof Pavilion are better suited to smaller events of 60 to 80 guests. Royal Festival Hall is open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM. Queen Elizabeth Hall is open an hour and a half before show time. The Hayward is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM and Friday until 10 PM. Performance hours and schedules vary. Admission to the centre is free, though additional charges are required for some events.

The United Kingdom's most prestigious national museum, the Tate Modern showcases a premiere collection of international modern art and British art from the 1500s to today. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station in central London, the museum's

The United Kingdom's most prestigious national museum, the Tate Modern showcases a premiere collection of international modern art and British art from the 1500s to today. Housed in the former Bankside Power Station in central London, the museum's permanent collection is arranged among five exhibits on two levels: Material Gestures, Poetry and Dream, Conceptual Models, Idea and Object and States of Flux. Visitors can explore abstraction and expressionism in the works of artists Claude Monet, Anish Kapoor, Mark Rothko and Henri Matisse at Material Gestures, and step into the striking cubist and futurist works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein at States of Flux. Other notable works in the collection include those by Carl Andre, Dan Flavin, Jenny Holzer, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró. In addition to hosting numerous rotating exhibitions, workshops and performances, the Tate Modern also has a restaurant, espresso bar and café.

Westminter Abbey, or the Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster, has served as the coronation church since 1066 and as burial site of 17 British monarchs, as well as several poets, priests and noted minds. With its majestic Gothic

Westminter Abbey, or the Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster, has served as the coronation church since 1066 and as burial site of 17 British monarchs, as well as several poets, priests and noted minds. With its majestic Gothic architecture, Westminster Abbey welcomes over one million visitors annually. Guests can explore the shrine of St. Edward the Confessor; the Royal Air Force Chapel, dedicated to the men who died in the 1940 Battle of Britain; the College Garden; and the tombs of Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, Tennyson and Rudyard Kipling, among others, at the Poets' Corner. Tombs of royalty such as Mary, Queen of Scots, Elizabeth I, Mary I and Henry VII can been visited as well. Also, within the former monks' dormitory is the abbey museum, home of numerous notable artifacts from British history. Here, guests can see the saddle, sword, helm and shield of Henry V and the coronation chair of Mary II, among other items.

The abbey itself is not available for private events, but five settings, including Saint Catherine's Chapel Garden for up to 100 guests and museum for up to 150 guests, are available. Westminster Abbey hours and schedules vary based on day and time of year. The museum is generally open daily from 10:30 AM to 4 PM. Guided tours for groups of fewer than 26 people are available by request. Admission for non-worshippers is £12 for adults and £9 for children under 16, students and seniors ages 60 and older. Group rates are available.

Offering a night out in the capital at one of London's chicest bowling and restaurant venues, All Star Lanes has branches in Holborn, Bayswater and Brick Lane. Opened in 2006 by Charles Breeden and Mark von Westenholz, this all-in-one bowling and

Offering a night out in the capital at one of London's chicest bowling and restaurant venues, All Star Lanes has branches in Holborn, Bayswater and Brick Lane. Opened in 2006 by Charles Breeden and Mark von Westenholz, this all-in-one bowling and restaurant boutique combines classic American cuisine with a popular American pastime. Guests can snack on burgers, fries, onion rings and chicken tenders while going for a strike at one of 22 bowling lanes. The bar also entertains with nine televisions and a large selection of cocktails.

The venue is available for private parties of 30 to 80 people. All Star Lanes is open Monday through Thursday from 5 to 11:30 PM, Friday and Saturday from noon to 2 AM and Sunday from noon to 11 PM.

Built on the Thames when the Romans built the first London Bridge, Borough Market is both the city's oldest food market and one of its largest. Based in Southwark on Borough High Street in the southeast, the market is made of up four areas: Crown

Built on the Thames when the Romans built the first London Bridge, Borough Market is both the city's oldest food market and one of its largest. Based in Southwark on Borough High Street in the southeast, the market is made of up four areas: Crown Square, Green Market, Jubilee market and the surrounding shops and restaurants, all offering an assortment of gourmet delicacies for visitors to discover. Danilo Manco presents olive oils straight from Italy, while the Brindisa, one of the first retailers at the market, offers Spanish cheese, hams, oils and fish, as well as the popular chorizo roll. Borough Market is open Thursday from 11 AM to 5 PM, Friday from noon to 6 PM and Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM.

Visitors can travel in style down the Thames on daily sightseeing or meal and entertainment cruises offered by City Cruises. Up to 495 guests can step aboard one of the modern RiverLiner vessels, each decorated in a spring, summer, autumn or water

Visitors can travel in style down the Thames on daily sightseeing or meal and entertainment cruises offered by City Cruises. Up to 495 guests can step aboard one of the modern RiverLiner vessels, each decorated in a spring, summer, autumn or water theme and featuring an open upper deck, to either hop on or hop off as they travel between piers and pass notable landmarks such as Big Ben and St. Paul's Cathedral. For a night on the water, City Cruises offers dinner and cabaret cruises complete with a four-course meal, live music and dancing.

Boats are available for private functions. Cruise schedules and prices vary based on type.

The atmosphere at Kenza likens to an Aladdin's cave of indulgence, opulence and sheer pleasure. Based in Devonshire Square, Kenza is ideal for enjoying pre-dinner drinks or after-party cocktails in an intoxicating environment of Moroccan and North

The atmosphere at Kenza likens to an Aladdin's cave of indulgence, opulence and sheer pleasure. Based in Devonshire Square, Kenza is ideal for enjoying pre-dinner drinks or after-party cocktails in an intoxicating environment of Moroccan and North African influenced décor. Muslin drapes, decadent fabrics and materials synonymous with these intriguing regions surround guests as they enjoy cocktails such as the Amira, made of Bombay Sapphire Gin, raspberries, strawberries, Chambord and fresh ginger, and a Labanese mezza platter. Belly dancers who make nightly appearances add to the authenticity and allure of a stop at Kenza.

Several of the lounge's spaces are available for private events, and the entire space can be rented to accommodate up to 140 guests. Dancers, musicians, DJs and henna tattoo artists can be hired for events as well. Kenza is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Thursday and Friday from 11:30 to 3:30 AM and Saturday from 6 PM to 3:30 AM.

This retro chic bar on Old Compton Street in SoHo offers guests a dizzying array of unique cocktail creations. Setting it apart from many of the city's exclusive clubs, Lab Bar is renowned for its friendly bartenders and laidback atmosphere. Over 170

This retro chic bar on Old Compton Street in SoHo offers guests a dizzying array of unique cocktail creations. Setting it apart from many of the city's exclusive clubs, Lab Bar is renowned for its friendly bartenders and laidback atmosphere. Over 170 cocktails comprise the menu, from the Hall of Fame classics to concoctions such as a Red Hot Chili Pepper, a mix of chili, lemongrass-infused tequila, vanilla sugar, Goldschlager, ginger beer and champagne. On the chance patrons don't find a libation to fit their taste, they can create their own mixture or grab a bottle of beer or glass of wine.

The bar offers groups of tables to be rented for small groups. Lab is open Monday through Saturday from 4 PM to midnight and Sunday from 4 to 10:30 PM. Cocktails average £6.50.

Located on Tooley Street close to London's South Bank, the London Dungeon is a macabre look at the Medieval Period's history, from torture methods to infamous killers. Actors, rides and exhibits both thrill and educate guests about different

Located on Tooley Street close to London's South Bank, the London Dungeon is a macabre look at the Medieval Period's history, from torture methods to infamous killers. Actors, rides and exhibits both thrill and educate guests about different historical episodes. Guests can retrace the steps of the 19th century serial killer Jack the Ripper or plunge into darkness at a staged hanging at the new Extremis: Drop Ride to Doom.

An alternative venue offering a mix of history and horror, the dungeon is available for private events of 75 to 220 guests and offers event packages. London Dungeon is open daily with hours varying based on time of year. It is closed Christmas. Admission at the door is £13.95 for children, £19.95 for adults and £14.95 for seniors ages 60 and older.

Kitsch is certainly the order of the day at this Polynesian venue, which regularly attracts celebrities along the likes of socialite Paris Hilton and actress Scarlet Johansson, and on occasion royalty such as Prince Harry. Based on Dover Street in

Kitsch is certainly the order of the day at this Polynesian venue, which regularly attracts celebrities along the likes of socialite Paris Hilton and actress Scarlet Johansson, and on occasion royalty such as Prince Harry. Based on Dover Street in the heart of London and under the leadership of highly respected nightclub impresario Piers Adam, this unique two-story club creates an ambiance of tranquility and the feeling of sitting in one's very own tiki hut, adorned with colorful cushions, hand-carved figures, green foliage and other elements that transport guests to their own tropical paradise. Patrons can enjoy Mahiki's signature piña colada, presented in frozen pineapples, or creative cocktails such as the Watermelon Martini with rum and elderflower cordial and the Good Time Girl, a mix of mango vodka, passion fruit and fresh organic vanilla ice cream.

Mahiki offers group accommodations. The bar is open Monday through Saturday from 5:30 PM to 3:30 AM.

Hardwood floors, 80s wallpaper, multicolored lighting and spacious seating areas welcome guests to one of Chelsea's newest bars. True to its name, Nectar offers a range of fruit and nectar-based libations. Guests can sip an Apricot Mango Martini of

Hardwood floors, 80s wallpaper, multicolored lighting and spacious seating areas welcome guests to one of Chelsea's newest bars. True to its name, Nectar offers a range of fruit and nectar-based libations. Guests can sip an Apricot Mango Martini of Gordon's gin, mango puree, apricot brandy and lemon juice; a 3 Berry Daiquiri of dark and white rums, crème de mure, fresh strawberries, raspberries and blackberries; or the bar's signature Nectopia of Absolut Kurant, Galliano, crème de banana, grenadine and orange juice. Music from R&B to disco to indie combine to get the party pumping on the weekends.

For private events, Nectar offers its entire club Monday through Thursday for groups of up to 200 people and exclusive areas with private bars for rent Friday and Saturday. In the summer the outdoor beer garden is available for 70 to 100 guests. Nectar is open Monday through Thursday from 5 PM to midnight and Friday and Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM. Cocktails range from £7 to £8.

One of the most iconic British Museums, the Royal Academy of Arts, London's answer to New York's Times Square, holds regular art exhibitions throughout the year in addition to displaying its permanent collection in the recently restored John Madejski

One of the most iconic British Museums, the Royal Academy of Arts, London's answer to New York's Times Square, holds regular art exhibitions throughout the year in addition to displaying its permanent collection in the recently restored John Madejski Fine Rooms. Focusing on British art and artists from the 18th century to today, exhibit highlights include sculpture, painting, drawings, photographs and more by artists such as Sir Joshua Reynolds, Thomas Gainsborough and John William Waterhouse. Other collections that have graced the academy include the first collection outside China of the former Emperors Terracotta Army; never-before-seen watercolor and pastel drawings by French Impressionist Claude Monet; and a collection of unseen French and Russian paintings between 1870 and 1925 gathered from the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Art, the State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, the State Hermitage Museum and the State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg.

The Royal Academy of Arts has numerous rooms for private events, from the 18th century fine rooms for receptions of up to 350 guests to the main galleries for up to 800 people. The academy is open Saturday through Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Friday from 10 AM to 10 PM.

A reconstruction of the theater built by Shakespeare's playing company in 1599, Shakespeare's Globe is home to a professional theater company, a children's education program and an exhibition devoted to Shakespeare, his plays and the playhouse.

A reconstruction of the theater built by Shakespeare's playing company in 1599, Shakespeare's Globe is home to a professional theater company, a children's education program and an exhibition devoted to Shakespeare, his plays and the playhouse. Story-tellers take guests on a tour to see actors practicing in handmade costumes, watch a sword-fight, and learn about London's bankside in Elizabethan times.

The Globe offers private event spaces. Shakespeare's Globe is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tours run every 15 to 30 minutes, though hours and schedules vary based on scheduled performances. Group rates are available.

One of the most recognized theaters in the capital, the Lyceum Theatre based in Westminster was created by Samuel Beazley in 1834. Originally used for dramatic performances by the Drury Lane Company, the Lyceum was the first theater in London to be

One of the most recognized theaters in the capital, the Lyceum Theatre based in Westminster was created by Samuel Beazley in 1834. Originally used for dramatic performances by the Drury Lane Company, the Lyceum was the first theater in London to be gas-lit. The Lyceum premiered one of Mozart's operas entitled Cosi Fan Tutti. Other performers to have graced the Lyceum include the composer John Barnett and W.S. Gilbert, famous for being one half of Gilbert and Sullivan. Today, the theatre features numerous productions, from Broadway plays such as The Lion King to Shakespeare reproductions. Hours and prices vary based on performance.

The Original Tour is the main bus company responsible for hop on, hop off tours upon iconic red double-decker buses that travel throughout the capital. Over 90 stops spread among six routes make up this sightseeing tour, which features full English

The Original Tour is the main bus company responsible for hop on, hop off tours upon iconic red double-decker buses that travel throughout the capital. Over 90 stops spread among six routes make up this sightseeing tour, which features full English commentary, as well as a choice of French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian and Japanese translations. While on the tour, visitors can sit back and take in the numerous sights that London has to offer, including Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, the London Bridge, Downing Street, St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. For a different perspective, guests can also opt to take a cruise on the River Thames, free for tour customers.

The Original Tour offers a private 90-minute panoramic tour for up to 30 guests. Routes 1 through 4 are between 50 minutes to two hours in length while routes 5 and 6 are links to the main tour. Guests can hop on or hop off at any stop within up to 24 hours of ticket purchase. Individual tickets are £12 for children ages 5-15 and £22 for adults. Group rates are available.

Home to the Rugby Football Union, Twickenham Stadium was recently expanded to 82,000 seats, making it the 2nd largest stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley. Referred to as the home of English rugby, the stadium hosts home test matches, the

Home to the Rugby Football Union, Twickenham Stadium was recently expanded to 82,000 seats, making it the 2nd largest stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley. Referred to as the home of English rugby, the stadium hosts home test matches, the Middlesex Sevens tournament and the Guinness Premiership final. It has also hosted EDF Energy Cup and Heineken Cup matches. Aside from rugby, the stadium has served as a venue for performers such as the Rolling Stones, Rod Steward and Bon Jovi. Twickenham is also home to the World Rugby Museum, which uses interactive displays to tell the story of rugby, both English and international. Guests can tour both the museum and the stadium to visit the player tunnel and changing rooms, which house 60-year-old baths, and to see artifacts such as the Webb Ellis Trophy and a jersey from the first rugby international match in 1871.

The Rugby Union season runs September to May. The World Rugby Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Tours run for one and a half hours Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 AM, noon, 1:30 PM and 3 PM and Sunday at 1 PM and 3 PM. No tours run on match days. Tickets and museum admission are £10.

Located inside the posh Bank Westminster restaurant near famous landmark Buckingham Palace, Zander Bar is home to the longest bar in Europe measuring in at 36 meters. Guests can grab a cocktail from an extensive list of 90 selections and settle back

Located inside the posh Bank Westminster restaurant near famous landmark Buckingham Palace, Zander Bar is home to the longest bar in Europe measuring in at 36 meters. Guests can grab a cocktail from an extensive list of 90 selections and settle back into a cozy seating corner amongst the sleek and modern décor. Sorbet cocktails such as L'Italiano, a frozen sorbet of Campari, orange and citrus peel topped with champagne, are favorites, and wine, champagne and beer are also available.

The bar and adjacent restaurant have spaces for private events, including private dining rooms for dinners of 20 to 40 guests. Zander Bar is open Monday and Tuesday from 11 AM to 11 PM, Wednesday through Friday from 11 to 1 AM and Saturday from 5 PM to 1 AM.

The brainchild of one of France's greatest chefs, L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon is a culinary adventure that has emerged as one of the most exclusive restaurants in London and gained its first Michelin star only after a few months of opening. Guests

The brainchild of one of France's greatest chefs, L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon is a culinary adventure that has emerged as one of the most exclusive restaurants in London and gained its first Michelin star only after a few months of opening. Guests enter the ground floor of this three-story building to be greeted by a sleek interior with dark lacquered woods and red leathers that lend the space a Japanese feel. Diners can watch preparation at an open kitchen that dishes up a wealth of technical grazing dishes, from mini foie gras burgers and sweetbreads to lobster ravioli and mackerel tart.

Upstairs, La Cuisine serves a classic three-course menu with dishes such as egg cocotte topped with a wild mushroom cream, veal shank accompanied with baby carrots cooked in honey and ginger and rounded off with a lemon thyme jus, and a supreme of pigeon that is enveloped in a mélange of cabbage, foie gras and jus perlée. Finally, Le Bar is a great place for drinks, particularly a glass of wine from the extensive list of 370 choices, primarily French.

L'Atelier seats up to 30 guests with space for an additional 40 people at La Cuisine. Le Bar can accommodate approximately 60 to 80 people for private events. L'Atelier serves lunch daily from noon to 3 PM and serves dinner daily from 5:30 to 11 PM. La Cuisine serves dinner daily from 6:30 PM to midnight.

A visit to London would not be complete without a trip to one of the symbols of French capital cuisine. Run by Michel Roux, Jr., and based in the hub of Mayfair, Le Gavroche celebrated its 40th year in business in 2007. Its effortless décor set in a

A visit to London would not be complete without a trip to one of the symbols of French capital cuisine. Run by Michel Roux, Jr., and based in the hub of Mayfair, Le Gavroche celebrated its 40th year in business in 2007. Its effortless décor set in a classic layout encompasses tasteful artwork, a bold canvas of colors and plush chairs that invite diners to settle back for a delicious meal. Dishes on the regularly changing a la carte menu include roast suckling lamb, a mousse of lobster with caviar in a champagne sauce and classic langoustine and snails. Guests can also try the eight-course Menu Exceptionel showcasing delights such as foie gras, lamb, sea bass, a cheese soufflé and scallops. Some 60,000 bottles of wine are available to complement any dish.

A unique venue in which to hold an event, Le Gavroche can seat 100 people and also has its own private dining facilities that feature a reception room and cocktail bar for eight to 20 guests. The restaurant serves lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 2 PM and dinner Monday through Saturday from 6:30 to 11 PM.

Executive Head Chef Jun Tunaka has created a modern French menu in one of the most aesthetically pleasing venues in the whole of London. Located in High Holborn, Pearl's interior is lavishly adorned with over one million individually hand-strung

Executive Head Chef Jun Tunaka has created a modern French menu in one of the most aesthetically pleasing venues in the whole of London. Located in High Holborn, Pearl's interior is lavishly adorned with over one million individually hand-strung pearls, polished walnut, rare marble and Mother of Pearl inlays. Guests can choose from dishes such as frog's legs, lamb with wild beans, apricots and sweet peppers, and pork belly with Savoy cabbage and caramelized pineapple. A wide selection of over 20 cheeses and 40 wines also tempt diners, who can enjoy cocktails after dinner at the bar. The signature "Pink Pearl" is a champagne, Remy Martin V.S.O.P., Elderflower Cordial and Red Currant libation.

The restaurant can seat up to 70 people and also includes an elegant 12-seat private dining room. Pearl Restaurant and Bar serves lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 2:30 PM and dinner Monday through Saturday from 6 to 10 PM.

One of the most famous chefs in the world, Gordon Ramsay has a restaurant empire as vast as the Atlantic Ocean with venues in Paris, Prague, Tokyo, Dubai and London, where he is the only chef to have held seven Michelin stars at the same time. His

One of the most famous chefs in the world, Gordon Ramsay has a restaurant empire as vast as the Atlantic Ocean with venues in Paris, Prague, Tokyo, Dubai and London, where he is the only chef to have held seven Michelin stars at the same time. His restaurant at Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea is constantly recognized as the crème de la crème of the capital's eateries and has been named by Restaurant magazine as one of the top 5 restaurants in the world.

Executive Chef Mark Askew, previously under the helm of Anton Edelmann at the Savoy Grill, oversees the subtle French cuisine served at this elegant and sophisticated eatery. Amongst black and white décor, linen tablecloths and fresh flowers, guests can enjoy specialties such as turbot fillet, Cornish lamb or pot roasted Northumberland beef fillet. A tasting menu, with dishes such as foie gras with braised carrots and almond foam, pineapple and coconut soup with chili syrup, and roasted Barbary duck breast, is also available.

The restaurant is available for private dining for up to 50 guests. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay serves lunch Monday through Friday from noon to 2 PM and dinner Monday through Friday from 6:45 to 10:30 PM. Three courses from the a la carte menu are £90. The seven-course tasting menu is £120.

Established in 1798, Rules is the oldest restaurant in the capital. Found in the heart of London's Covent Garden, Rules serves up an excellent selection of classic British cuisine in an atmosphere of distinctly British sophistication. Mahogany

Established in 1798, Rules is the oldest restaurant in the capital. Found in the heart of London's Covent Garden, Rules serves up an excellent selection of classic British cuisine in an atmosphere of distinctly British sophistication. Mahogany booths, heavy curtains, starched white tablecloths and London art and memorabilia invite guests to settle in for an elegant evening of British dining, which has been enjoyed by the likes of literary talents such as Charles Dickens and actors such as Laurence Olivier and Charlie Chaplin. Specializing in traditional food, Rules serves classic game, oysters, pies and puddings. Diners can try Potted Iron Age pork, steak and kidney pie, Highland venison loin or rack of West Devon lamb before enjoying sweet deserts such as sticky date and toffee pudding or treacle sponge pudding.

The restaurant has two private dining rooms for 9 to 18 people and offers a choice of four set menus. Rules is open daily Monday through Saturday from noon to 11:30 PM and Sunday from noon to 10:30 PM. Entrees range from £17.95 to £24.50.

Situated near Regents Park, London Zoo is the oldest scientific zoo in the world, and also holds the title of being the first to open an official reptile house, aquarium, insect house and children's zoo. Out of a total of 650 different species at the

Situated near Regents Park, London Zoo is the oldest scientific zoo in the world, and also holds the title of being the first to open an official reptile house, aquarium, insect house and children's zoo. Out of a total of 650 different species at the zoo, from mammals to reptiles to birds to amphibians, 112 are considered rare. Guests can explore exhibits such as African Bird Safari, Gorilla Kingdom and Meet the Monkeys, a 1,500-square-meter enclosure that houses black capped squirrel monkeys. Plans to construct a brand new amphibian exhibit entitled Frog World are in the works as part of a significant £2.2 million amphibian conservation project.

London Zoo has spaces for private events, including the recently renovated Blackburn Pavilion, a Victorian building boasting tropical birds and a waterfall. Hours and schedules vary based on time of year. Admission is £11.90 for children ages 3-15, £15.40 for adult and £13.90 for students and seniors ages 60 and older.

Fashion model Kate Moss, singer Justin Timberlake, former English Prime Minister Tony Blair and actress Angelina Jolie all convene in one location on London's Marleybone Road - but guests can't expect much more than a picture with these famed

Fashion model Kate Moss, singer Justin Timberlake, former English Prime Minister Tony Blair and actress Angelina Jolie all convene in one location on London's Marleybone Road - but guests can't expect much more than a picture with these famed figures. Such idols are painstakingly created out of wax during a process of over 800 hours before joining the displays at Madame Tussauds. Aside from well-known cultural figures, sports stars, Hollywood and Bollywood actors, world leaders, popular musicians, royalty and fashion icons, the wax museum also features Spirit of London, a journey of London's history that ferries guests in mini replicas of black taxis through various ages, from Shakespeare composing his works to the London Fire to the psychedelic 60s.

Madame Tussauds has five themed spaces for private events, including the reception room Blush and World Stage ballroom, and also offers VIP tours after hours. Madame Tussauds is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM with extended hours during peak times of year. Tickets cost £18.90 for children ages 5-15 and £25 for adults. Discounted rates are available for tickets purchased online.

Established in 1857 the Science Museum is based on Exhibition Road in the southwest of London, close to the bright lights and wealthy areas of Kensington, Knightsbridge and Sloane Square. Its collection of over 300,000 items features objects from the

Established in 1857 the Science Museum is based on Exhibition Road in the southwest of London, close to the bright lights and wealthy areas of Kensington, Knightsbridge and Sloane Square. Its collection of over 300,000 items features objects from the areas of science, medicine, engineering technologies and information and communication technologies.

Notable artifacts include the first jet engine, a re-creation of Francis Crick and James Watson's DNA model, Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, and the prototype of the Clock and Long Now, a mechanical clock set to keep time for 10,000 years. Guests can explore Making the Modern World, a look at the museum's most prominent objects from 1750 to 2000, including Stephenson's "Rocket" locomotive and the Apollo 10 capsule, or see rockets, satellites and more in Exploring Space, which recounts the story of when man first explored the depths of space travel.

The Science Museum has several spaces for private events. The Energy Hall, with its centerpiece of a 1903 Harle Syke Mill engine, can accommodate receptions of up to 600 guests, while the Flight Gallery has room for up to 500 people, who can dance and dine under the first airplane to cross the Atlantic. Smaller venues include the Director's Suite for up to 100 guests seated theater-style. The Science Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is free, but specific attractions or exhibitions may require additional charges. Guided group tours are available.

One of the biggest parks in Central London, Hyde Park sits on 350 acres divided in half by the Serpentine Lake. The park is adjacent to the Kensington Gardens, once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, but the two parks have been separate parks

One of the biggest parks in Central London, Hyde Park sits on 350 acres divided in half by the Serpentine Lake. The park is adjacent to the Kensington Gardens, once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, but the two parks have been separate parks since around 1730. One of the Royal Parks of London, Hyde Park is home to famous Speakers' Corner, an area where public speaking on any topic, from politics to religion, is allowed. Notable figures such as Karl Marx, Vladmir Lenin and George Orwell have all been to the corner. Aside from being a spot for many concerts throughout the year, the park is also home to a £3.6 million Diana, Princess of Wales memorial tribute. Hyde Park is open daily from 5 AM to midnight.

Kew Gardens is an impressive 300-acre span of outdoor gardens, botanical greenhouses, museums, galleries, historic structures and restaurants. Divided into eight zones, the gardens offer guests an opportunity to explore numerous plant collections,

Kew Gardens is an impressive 300-acre span of outdoor gardens, botanical greenhouses, museums, galleries, historic structures and restaurants. Divided into eight zones, the gardens offer guests an opportunity to explore numerous plant collections, from the apple and pear trees at the cottage-style Secluded Garden to extensive hollies at the 1,030-meter-long Holly Walk, the most comprehensive collection of cultivated mature hollies.

Other attractions at the gardens include six glasshouses and Chokushi-Mon, a replica of a Japanese Temple. Guests can also stop by Museum No. 1 to observe a collection of botany tools, food and medicines. Kew Palace, the smallest of the British palaces, is also a must see. After a full day of exploring the wealth of treasures that comprise the grounds, visitors can opt to relax at one of various restaurants or cafes in an unrivaled outdoor setting.

The gardens have several spaces available for private event rentals. Among them, Cambridge Cottage, a former royal residence with its own private gardens, can accommodate up to 150 guests for a reception, while the striking Romanesque-style Orangery can hold 200 to 400 guests for evening events. The Temperate House, the oldest and largest Victorian glasshouse in the world, is great for 200 to 400 guests to mingle amongst lush foliage and tropical plants.

Kew Gardens is open daily at 9:30 AM; closing times vary based on time of year. Admission is £13 for adults and £12 for students and seniors ages 60 and older. Admission for children under 17 is free.

One of the official Royal Parks among Green Park, Greenwich Park and Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park is a magnificent area that spans 487 acres of lush green space encompassing a number of attractions, including the London Zoo in the northeast

One of the official Royal Parks among Green Park, Greenwich Park and Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park is a magnificent area that spans 487 acres of lush green space encompassing a number of attractions, including the London Zoo in the northeast end of the park. Originally a hunting ground for Henry VIII, the park is now London's largest outdoor sports arena. Guests can take advantage of the "The Hub," a 100-acre pavilion that offers both indoor and outdoor exercise classes, including Pilates, yoga, running and power walking, at no fee.

Guests can also opt for a casual stroll around the grounds, which boast a stunning array of flora and fauna, including about 114 species of birds, 90 species of swans, geese and ducks. While on the grounds, visitors will also enjoy breathtaking architecture including that of St. John's Lodge and of the Holme and Winfield House, home to the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Regent's Park also features the Queen Mary's Rose Gardens, which showcase more than 30,000 roses of 400 varieties, and numerous cafes and restaurants.

The park's open air theater hosts many events from May to early September, and bandstands throughout the park often have lunchtime and evening concerts. The Hub offers meeting rooms and its upper level for groups of 24 to 80 people. Regent's Park is open daily from 5 AM to dusk. Admission is free.