Walk down the streets where many armies marched, where kings walked, and where many world-changing decisions were made. London is a time capsule, showing where many enduring concepts, customs, & cultures were developed. When standing in a cobble-stoned street near a castle or cathedral, you can't help feeling overwelmed by how incredibly old this place is. And you'll feel priveledged to stand in such a historical place.
Favourite spots:
British Museum, Museum of Moving Pictures, Covent Garden, Westminster Abby, The Barbicon, & The Museum of Maritime History (Greenwich).
What's really great:
I enjoyed a bus tour of Westminster & a walking tour of Chelsea. And to get everywhere, the underground railroad was affordable & easy to use.
Sights:
St James Park, Admirality Gate, Buckingham Palace, the Royal Mews, Kensington Gardens, Regent Park, Parliament, Picadilly Circus, & anywhere along the Thames.
Accommodations:
I had no problems here. My mother & step-father bought a flat in West Hampstead. So i stayed there with my sister & her husband. But sorry i can't recommend anything for you.
Hangouts:
You can't swing a cat in London without hitting a pub. Walk down any street & you'll find one.
Restaurants:
Where i was staying my sister & i did our own cooking. But once in awhile i'd order out for Indian food to be delivered. But when roaming about, i found many little places selling fish & chips, steak & kidney pies, & cucumber sandwiches. In Greenwich i found the best fish & chips -- a whole side of fished fried in a thick crackly crust, saturated with grease, showered with salt, & soaked with vinegar. The best i ever had.
Other recommendations:
Few of the underground stations, such as Victoria Station & Charing Cross Station, are in beautiful settings with several shops eateries all around. Also the BBC Studio has tours open for you PBS fans. You have to call in advance.