"Maybe it's because I'm a London ..." a London Travel Page by uglyscot

I was born and spent the first 15 years of my life in North London, Muswell Hill to be precise. I hated it. Forty years later I fell under its spell.Whether it's because you feel anonymous there, or because it is easy to move around and there is so much to see and do, I don't know. Maybe just my roots pulling me back. My Italian ancestor arrived in London on a visit in 1815 and again in 1832 where he lived and died. His son was born there and the female lines go back to the 1700s, on both sides of the river..
So now I have explored places I never knew as a child, and can see the changes from a smoky city, to a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis. Away from the tourist areas are quiet shady squares, quaint little mews, and odd bits of history on blue plaques on buildings.
One excellent way to see it all is from the London Eye. You may have to queue, but it's worth it. Even with my fear of heights, I did it,though sat in the middle clinging to the seat! Otherwise take a Big Bus open topped ride.

Most people know the sound of Big Ben, though many think that it is the whole clock tower that bears the name. It used to be a familiar landmark, and still is a much visited site.
The Houses of Parliament stand on by the River Thames , and can be seen very clearly from the London Eye.
No lover of politics myself, I have no wish to venture any closer.
On my first trip back after living in Sudan for 3 years, the old village elders asked me to go to 10 Downing Street and ask the Prime Minister to come back and rule the Sudan! The nearest I could get was the end of the street.

Get off the tube at Embankment and see Cleopatra's needle, then cross the Thames and walk along past Blackfriars Bridge, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, stop [and browse at the book market on Sundays,] and then cross back by the Millenium Bridge for a pleasant afternoon walk.
I've still to venture further into South London, but must, as I found a distaff line in the family tree lived in Southwark in late 1700s and early 1800s.
Update: 2008 I ventured into Southwark where great grandmother was born. Most of the area has changed , and streets have disappeared, but there are still parts she might recognize. I was astonished to find the area crowded with tourists- and so much to see.