Ideal for a safe and socially distanced staycation in the capital.
If you’re taking a safe, socially distanced staycation trip to the Big Smoke once lockdown is lifted and the UK begins its long process of normalisation, then you’re probably wondering which landmarks and attractions in London are open again?
We can’t wait to enjoy the iconic sites, sounds and even smells of England’s capital city, and it’s reassuring that so many London landmarks are reopening, getting back on track and implementing safety measures to ensure social distancing guidelines are met. So, if you’re looking for the best places in London which are open again in July, then read on; here are 7 London landmarks reopening after lockdown, IDEAL for a safe and socially distanced staycation in the capital.
THE BRITISH LIBRARY
From 22nd July, the British Library is planning to open up some of their Reading Rooms at St. Pancras as the first step in a phased reopening process. Great news for literary fans!
If you love to get immersed in books dating back as much as 3000 years, then the British Library is a must, and the reading rooms are peaceful, inspiring places to access the historic library’s collection. Visitors to the Reading Rooms are asked to leave coats and bags, as well as laptops and other bulky items, in the cloakroom or in a locker, which comes at a cost.
MADAME TUSSAUDS LONDON
Madame Tussauds needs little in the way of introduction, but we’ll do so anyway, for those at the back. This fascinating studio has lifelike wax statues and other interactive areas that will bring your favourite characters from your favourite TV shows, movies, YouTube, and celebrities to life. Selfies, fortunately, are encouraged.
Just some of the famous faces on show include Johnny Depp, Benedict Cumberbatch, the Queen, Queen and more. There is also an exclusive zone dedicated to Star Wars, where you can enjoy your favourite movie scenes – situated at Marylebone Rd, Marylebone.
Although Madame Tussauds London has yet to announce an official reopening date, Madame Tussauds Blackpool is reopening on 4th July, with the London branch planning to do the same later in July. Check out their information on how their reopening will adhere to safety guidelines here.
WESTMINSTER ABBEY
Westminster Abbey is another hugely popular destination for tourists in London, and has been one of the most iconic sites (in many different guises and following several rebuilds and renovations) in the city since the seventh century. This site has witnessed many burials and coronations and is a must-visit for tourists new to London.
The Abbey has already re-opened for private prayer and they will resume regular daily services from Sunday 5th July, though some new measures are in place to help keep people safe; the number of people attending services will be limited, two metre distances insisted on and a hand sanitiser station will be positioned on the door for arrivals. The Abbey is also requesting that if you can wear a mask, to please do so.
NATIONAL GALLERY
The National Gallery has a vast collection of influential paintings from European Art’s various movements and disciplines, compromising pieces by some of the most iconic painters in history, such as The Waterlily Pond by Monet, Child by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli’s Venus and Mars, and Van Gogh’s Sunflowers among many others.
The National Gallery reopens with slightly reduced hours, open daily from 11am to 4pm, and on Friday until 9pm, from 8th July.
TOWER OF LONDON
The Tower of London has a story spanning hundreds of years, and at times the script gets just a little bit gruesome. The Tower was used as a prison and for executions throughout history, but today (well, until recent events anyway) it’s a popular tourist attraction and home to the dazzling Crown Jewels; a collection of diamonds and gems that are sure to wow you if you’re a fan of bling.
The famous site has played many important roles over the centuries and is now marked as a world heritage site, located at St Katharine’s & Wapping. Do make sure you take a tour around the Tower with a Beefeater guide who’ll explain everything you need to know about this historic London landmark.
The Tower of London will reopen its hefty doors to visitors on July 10th, with new safety measures in place. Final entry to the Tower of London on its open days will be 5pm.
HAMPTON COURT PALACE
If you’ve not had your fill of royal, historical intrigue then indoors element of the facilities at Hampton Court Palace is also set to reopen, this time from July 17th, though booking is essential, spaces limited each day and strict social distancing enforced. Should you be keen on having a sneak peek before then, take a virtual tour of the site.
TATE MODERN
The UK’s (and some might say, the world’s) premier modern art museum (and one of the world’s largest), the Tate Modern is set to reopen on 27th July, albeit with timed tickets a necessity for entry. We can’t wait!
Housing national and international pieces and an ever changing cast of prestigious exhibitions, the Tate Modern currently has an exhibition detailing the life and work of Andy Warhol running until September 2020, alongside Kara Walker’s Hyundai Commission, now running until November 2020 in the Turbine Hall.