London Art Tours - for the visitor to London who wishes to view and experience the incomparable art and architecture of the city, its galleries and exhibitions.

5. WESTMINSTER ABBEY - WHITEHALL - NATIONAL GALLERY Westminster Abbey (see Highlights Tours) has been associated with royalty for almost 1,000 years and was the meeting place of the forerunner of Parliament in the 14th century. It remains close to the heart of British Government. After highlights of the Abbey we cross the street to The Palace of Westminster (often referred to as the Houses of Parliament) with its famous clocktower, commonly known as "Big Ben". You will hear about the former Whitehall Palace as we walk up the street that still bears its name, past the buildings from which the British Empire was governed. You will be able to glimpse the modest-looking official London home of the Prime Minister. At Horseguard's Parade the only soldiers in the British Army who still wear armour provide the mounted guard to the official entrance to Buckingham Palace. Ironically, it was in front of the building opposite that King Charles I was executed in 1649. The King's statue stands at the top of Whitehall. It is the oldest public statue in London. Nearby is the spot which marks the centre of London. From here all distances from London are measured. The majesty of Trafalgar Square is familiar to us all. We'll look at some of the monuments before stopping for refreshments. Finally your tour is completed with a tour of the collections of the National Gallery (see Highlights Tours). Westminster Abbey - (see Highlights Tours) Palace of Westminster The Foreign & Commonwealth Office The Cenotaph Downing Street Horseguard's Parade Banqueting House Trafalgar Square National Gallery - (see Highlights Tours)