Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
steam-powered locomotives (the Circle Line, c. 1865). On the ground floor, horses and
trains are replaced by motorized vehicles (cars, taxis, double-decker buses, streetcars),
resulting in 20th-century congestion. How to deal with it? In 2003, car drivers in Lon-
don were slapped with a congestion charge, and today, a half-billion people ride the Tube
every year. Learn how city planners hope to improve efficiency with better tracks and
more coverage of the expanding East End. Finally, an exhibit lets you imagine four dif-
ferent scenarios for the year 2055 depending on the choices you make today. Will fresh
strawberries in December destroy the planet?
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Courtauld Gallery
This wonderful and compact collection of paintings is a joy. The gallery is part of the
Courtauld Institute of Art, and the thoughtful description of each piece of art reminds vis-
itors that the gallery is still used for teaching. You'll see medieval European paintings
and works by Rubens, the Impressionists (Manet, Monet, and Degas), Post-Impressionists
(Cézanne and an intense Van Gogh self-portrait), and more. Besides the permanent collec-
tion, a quality selection of loaners and special exhibits are often included in the entry fee.
The gallery is located within the grand Somerset House; enjoy the riverside eateries and
the courtyard featuring a playful fountain.
Cost and Hours:
£
6 (
£
3 on Mon); open daily 10:00-18:00, last entry 30 minutes
before closing, occasionally open Thu until 21:00—check website; in Somerset House
on the Strand, Tube: Temple or Covent Garden, recorded info tel. 020/7848-2526,
See the Courtauld Gallery Tour chapter.
The working headquarters of the British monarchy, Buckingham Palace is where the
Queen carries out her official duties as the head of state. She and other members of
the royal family also maintain apartments here. The property hasn't always been this
grand—James I (1603-1625) first brought the site under royal protection as a place for his
mulberry plantation, for rearing silkworms.
