If you love all things history then the capital city of the UK is the perfect place to visit this year
2016 is a perfect time to visit London, England. This year, the city will be celebrating several significant anniversaries and they’re inviting visitors to join in on the fun. If you want to get a dose of history and experience London’s long storied past, then check out these attractions in the England capital.
950th anniversary of the Norman Conquest
Where: Tower of London
In 1066 the Normans, led by Duke William, invaded and changed England for ever. After defeating the Saxon King Harold at the Battle of Hastings, William's forces marched on London to secure the kingdom. William was crowned at Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day 1066 and left his own mark on the city in later years by ordering the construction of the Tower of London. Walk through the doors of this popular attraction to find out more about this historic event.
400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death
Where: Shakespeare’s Globe
Britain's greatest dramatist William Shakespeare died on 23 April 1616, leaving behind an unrivalled body of work. Among the institutions marking the anniversary throughout 2016 is Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, a modern-day reconstruction of the 1599 playhouse, which produced performances of his works. Built nearby the original site, Shakespeare's Globe offers an unparalleled insight into the writer's life and the world of Elizabethan drama.
350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London
Where: The Monument
Shortly after midnight on 2 September 1666 a fire broke out at a bakery on Pudding Lane, raging for four days and destroying the homes of 70,000 inhabitants. In the aftermath of the Great Fire, King Charles II ordered the construction of a permanent memorial to the Fire, The Monument. Built by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1677, The Monument is 202 feet high and stands exactly 202 feet from the spot in Pudding Lane on which the fire started. Visitors climbing the 311 steps today are rewarded with great views of the City and the River Thames.
50th anniversary of England's greatest sporting triumph
Where: Wembley Stadium
In 1966 England was chosen to host the World Cup for the first and only time to date. England's team played all six of its matches at London's Wembley Stadium, eventually triumphing over West Germany by four goals to two in the final on 30 July and becoming world champions. While the original stadium was demolished in 2002-03 and replaced with the modern venue, Wembley remains the home of English football. Sports and football fans will definitely relish the opportunity to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of this legendary stadium.
