Whitehall is a street in central London, England, that is home to various government buildings and historical sites. It is the site of some of the most important tourist attractions in the city, including the British monarchy, Westminster Abbey, and the Horse Guards Parade. Whitehall is also the location of the Cabinet Office and the famous Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
History of Whitehall
Whitehall has a long and storied history. The area has been the site of the royal court since the 16th century, when King Henry VIII moved his court to Whitehall Palace. During the English Civil War, the palace was destroyed by fire, and later replaced by the Banqueting House, which still stands today.
In the 18th century, Whitehall became the center of the British government. The Cabinet Office and Downing Street were built in the 19th century, and the Churchill War Rooms were built during the Second World War.
What to See in Whitehall
Whitehall is home to some of London’s most iconic tourist attractions, including:
- The British monarchy: Whitehall is the site of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Westminster Abbey: This iconic church is the site of many important royal ceremonies, including the coronation of the British monarch.
- Horse Guards Parade: This large parade ground is home to the Household Cavalry, and is the site of the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony.
- Downing Street: This is the official residence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Visitors can take a tour of the street and see the famous black door of Number 10.
- Cabinet Office: This is the headquarters of the British government. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about the history of the British government.
- Churchill War Rooms: This is the site of the British government’s secret headquarters during the Second World War. Visitors can take a tour of the war rooms and learn about Winston Churchill’s leadership during the war.
Tours and Admission
Many of the attractions in Whitehall offer tours and admission. Buckingham Palace offers tours of the palace and gardens, while the Churchill War Rooms offer a guided tour of the war rooms. Admission to the Horse Guards Parade is free, while admission to Westminster Abbey and the Cabinet Office is by donation.
Tips for Tourists
Whitehall is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the history and culture of London. Here are some tips for visitors:
- Plan ahead: Many of the attractions in Whitehall require tickets, so it is best to plan ahead and purchase tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Whitehall is a large area, and visitors will be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters and sore feet.
- Bring a camera: Whitehall is home to some of London’s most iconic attractions, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the memories.
- Dress appropriately: Some of the attractions in Whitehall require visitors to dress appropriately, so check the dress code before visiting.
Practical Information
Whitehall is located in central London, close to the River Thames. The closest underground station is Westminster, which is served by the Jubilee, Circle, and District lines. The area is also served by a number of bus routes.
Whitehall is a great destination for tourists looking to explore the history and culture of London. With its iconic attractions, historical sites, and government buildings, Whitehall is a must-visit destination for any visitor to the city.
