London boasts a rich variety of attractions, from world-famous galleries to vibrant street food markets and late night comedy performances.
Some of the capital's most iconic sights are just a short walk or tube ride apart–you can toss a coin into Trafalgar Square's fountains, snap a selfie with Big Ben, and cross Westminster Bridge for a trip on the London Eye, all within the hour.
With so much to see, a little planning goes a long way. The Collins London Handy Street Map makes it easy to explore the best of what the city has to offer. With over 300 places of interest listed—from Buckingham Palace to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the clear, full-colour grid map shows you exactly which streets to take so that you can make the most of your time and uncover hidden gems as you go.
Whether you're a history buff, culture seeker, or lover of the great outdoors, there's a place for every interest in London. Read on for five iconic sights to visit during your next trip (and amazing routes to get you there).
History Buffs
Where: The Tower of London
Nearest tube: Tower Hill (District and Circle lines)
Collins Handy Street Map: London grid location: Y11
Alternative route to get there: Fuel your trip with a bite to eat at Borough Market and make your way to the Thames Path for a stroll along the riverfront. Pass The Scoop at More London, a sunken outdoor amphitheatre, which hosts free film screenings during the summer months, before walking across Tower Bridge. Spot the Shard in the distance and marvel at the Tower of London and the cobbled streets that surround it on your approach.
Theatre Lovers
Where: V&A Museum–The Theatre and Performance Collection
Nearest tube: South Kensington (Piccadilly, District, and Circle lines)
Collins Handy Street Map: London grid location: J14
Alternative route to get there: While away a morning exploring the sprawling Hyde Park. Amble past the majestic Kensington Palace before enjoying a loop around the Round Pond, exiting the park from Alexandra Gate. From here it's a short walk to the V&A, which houses a fantastic collection of theatrical designs, costumes, memorabilia, works of art, manuscripts and more on the second floor.
Culture Seekers
Where: The National Portrait Gallery
Nearest tube: Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines)
Collins Handy Street Map: London grid location: Q11
Alternative route to get there: Start your journey in vibrant Chinatown. For those with a sweet-tooth head to Bubblewrap on Wardour Street for a taste of their infamous egg waffles. Weave through the throngs of tourists in Leicester Square as you make a beeline for Cecil Court: a quiet and historic street that's home to a strip of secondhand bookshops. From here, you can reach the National Portrait Gallery in a couple of minutes on foot.
Outdoor Explorers
Where: WWT London Wetland Centre
Nearest tube: Hammersmith (Piccadilly, District, and Hammersmith & City lines)
Collins Handy Street Map: London grid location: A18
Alternative route to get there: Cross Putney Bridge towards the high street and grab a takeaway tea or coffee before looping back to the River Thames towpath. Walk along Putney Embankment past Putney Pier, admiring the leafy tree-lined views of Bishop's Park as you go, then follow the Thames Path signs that lead to the London Wetland Centre.
Market Hunters
Where: Camden Market
Nearest tube: Camden Town (Northern line)
Collins Handy Street Map: London grid location: N4
Alternative route to get there: Double up on experiences with a trip to ZSL London Zoo in Regent's Park. Meet lions, tigers, gorillas, giraffes and more before hopping on a bus or walking to Camden Market for an afternoon of shopping for vintage wares and indulging in delicious street food.
Perfectly sized to slip into your backpack or handbag, the Collins London Handy Street Map is the ultimate navigation map to help you discover new places.