Located in London's Museum Corner, the Victoria and Albert Museum (known as the V&A London) is a place not to be missed.

Today, we're going to discover this place.

V&A London: article summary

V&A London: how to get to this museum?

Thanks to London's well-developed public transport network, you have several options for reaching this museum.

By metro, head for South Kensington via the District, Circle or Piccadilly. You can also use one of the many buses serving the area.

What are the opening hours?

You can visit us on site:

• Every day 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
• Friday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

V&A London: what is the Victoria and Albert Museum?

Founded in 1852, the Museum of London was known as South Kensington, then renamed Victoria and Albert in tribute to Queen Victoria and her husband Albert.

The museum focuses on arts such as theater, design, photography, architecture and much more.

It also houses much more than just British collections. The museum is regularly abbreviated as the V&A Museum or simply V&A London.

A true world tour

If you want to open your mind and travel around the British capital, then this is the place for you. If you'd like to discover other cultures, this London museum is home to numerous collections from the four corners of the globe.

The Tipu Tiger collection

The gallery features objects representing the history and culture of the Indian subcontinent south of the Himalayas, including:

• India
• Pakistan
• Nepal
• Bangladesh
• Sri Lanka
• Afghanistan

Silverware, so grandiose in the showcases, and refined jewelry, stand out throughout this exhibition. In addition, paintings and texts tell the story of the region, including South Asian religions and relations with Great Britain.

Discover the Middle East

Move on to the next gallery, featuring objects from North Africa and the Middle East. Intricate designs and fine mosaic ceramics fill the cabinets.

Don't forget to take a look at the incredible marble basin dating from 1277. It's near the enormous carpet in the center of the area, which you can't miss.

V&A London: a tour of China

There are amazing tea vessels in every gallery. China is no exception. There are various metal and textile works from many dynasties, including Han, Ming, Qing and Tang, to ponder and read about.

What stands out, however, are the sculptures, which are so realistic that you think they might jump out at you at any moment.

Discover the land of the rising sun

This gallery features interesting objects from Japan. Armors, lacquers and textiles stand out first to the contrast of early types of mobiles, computers and radios.

There are some beautiful kimonos on display and next to them is a cupboard full of inrōs. An inrō is used as a kind of bag when wearing kimonos, as they have no pockets.

Finally, the only display that definitely stands out is the Hello Kitty section. What museum would be complete without this famous cartoon?

V&A London: discover the world of theater

Posters, magazines, scripts, drawings, songs, album covers and quotes are sprinkled throughout, giving context to the subject of censorship. Some of the most memorable items include:

• A copy of Lady Chatterley's Lover, banned in 1929.
• Excerpts from underground magazine OZ.
• Poster for the Hair production.
• God Save the Queen album cover.

There's so much more to see at this interesting London museum that you could spend a good three days exploring it in depth. If you're on a budget and want to discover many works of art, it's the perfect visit.

Visit Wellington Arch is one of London's most important landmarks.

Today, I invite you to discover one of the most unique views of the city from this spot.

Here we go!

Wellington Arch: article summary

Wellington Arch: at a glance

The Wellington Arch is not just any arch. Built in the late 1820s to celebrate and commemorate Britain's triumph over Napoleonic France, the Wellington and Decimus Burton Arch was originally crowned by a gigantic equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington.

Since 1912, Captain Adrian Jones' 38-ton bronze masterpiece has been a neglected spot on the Hyde Park Corner traffic circle.

Built of spectacularly heavy stone, the arch is flanked by a full Corinthian entablature that surrounds the entire building. Greco-Roman chic with pretty portals in the heart of London.

A monument that hasn't always met with unanimous approval

The original arch, which once stood facing Constitution Hill, has been hated and ridiculed. There have even been calls to blow up the monument.

The first arch was a rather dark, wobbly monster, bearing a rather embarrassing bronze statue of Britain's first Prime Minister, Arthur Wellesley.

The arch and sculpture designed by Matthew Cotes Wyatt were in fact so bad that motions were set up by lords to move the bow to a less visible location.

As a mark of respect, Queen Victoria refused such requests until the Duke's death.

The first arch was intended as a ceremonial gateway to London from the west, reflecting the city's power and authority. It is unfortunately not the case.

Wellington Arch: a place to visit

Unbeknownst to many, you can actually get inside the Wellington Arch. You might think this gigantic structure is just a giant block of stone, but, like most things in London, it's full of surprises.

Since coming under the wing of English Heritage in 1999, the public can explore the three floors of exhibitions detailing the illustrious history of the complex, including all the pivotal moments of the Battle of Waterloo.

The permanent exhibition on the beginnings of arch construction is well worth a visit, as is the small but charming Quadriga gallery, which is open to the public. explores the UK's great soliloquies and heritage.

An incredible view of London

On site, you'll discover some of London's most unique sights. From left to right, you'll see cityscapes, from the lush, grandiose expanse of Hyde ParkApsley House, the Piccadilly and even Her Majesty's gargantuan garden.

Wellington Arch: what are the opening hours?

You can visit this site :

• Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The monument closes on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Wellington Arch is an interesting detour when you're in London. On site, you can discover a wealth of history and culture. enjoy the many secrets hidden in this exceptional monument.

To enjoy the Street ArtA city like London is a perfect place.

On every street corner, you can find a different work of art.

Today, I'd like to take you to some of London's most significant street art locations.

Street art in London: article summary

Street art in London

The roots of the street art movement can be traced back to the streets of New York in the 1970s. Today, the art has modernized and it can be found in many cities around the world.

Today, I'm taking you to the streets of London to discover the magnificent and sometimes ephemeral works of Street Art.

Start your journey in Shoreditch

Shoreditchin London's East End, is a creative hub of pubs, cafés and nightclubs.

On site, head east on Old Street and look for street art along Great Eastern Street, Bethnal Green Road and theparallel streets.

Shoreditch became a center of entertainment in the Tudor era. Shakespeare's plays were performed in one of England's first theaters, and at the Curtain Theatre, both located in the neighborhood.

Shoreditch's current street art scene has its roots in the 1980s and 1990s, when artists moved to the area.

Discover Banksy and other famous street artists

Banksy is perhaps the best-known and most controversial street artist because of his work and the mystery surrounding his identity.

Visit works by Banksy can be seen all over the world. However, it has moved to London in the early 2000s.

His work, which ranged from hard-hitting political commentary to comedic pieces, appeared regularly in London.

Many originals were removed or repainted. One of the best-known remaining pieces is the Designated Graffiti Area, located in the courtyard of the Cargo Club on Rivington in Shoreditch.

Another well-known Banksy work, Shop Till You Drop, is located high up on the wall of a building on Bruton Lane in London. Mayfair.

Street Art in London: a stroll through the city's works of art

Regent's Canal crossing Camden. Here you'll find a lively community with colorful street art.

In another part of the city, the streets are painted with a collection of murals in Brixton, birthplace of David Bowie.

A little off the beaten track, Hackney Wick is an emerging street art district. Here, too, some of the great names in the discipline present exceptional works.

Continue your journey on Brick Lane

Brick Lanewhich runs through the heart of Spitalfields to the south of Shoreditch, and the parallel streets that run alongside it are full of an impressive amount of street art.

Even if you find many works of art, some don't appear at first glance. You'll have to search for several minutes to find exceptional pieces.

Brick Lane owes its name to the fact that the local soil was used to brick and tile manufacturers in the 15th century.

By the 17th century, it had become a popular spot for breweries.

Explore the graffiti tunnel

Celebrated in neighborhoods such as Shoreditch and Brick Lane, graffiti is generally illegal in London.

However, there are a few places where "free walls" have been created for graffiti artists to use without fear of legal reprisal.

One of these walls is located in a pedestrian tunnel beneath London's Waterloo station. The Leake Street tunnel is now known as the Graffiti Tunnel.

In 2008, Banksy organized a festival here, bringing together 30 artists who decorated the tunnel walls with graffiti.

Here, colorful graffiti covers the walls and ceiling. The smell of paint greets you as soon as you enter the tunnel. As you pass through, you'll probably see artists at work.

If you're looking for something other than art wisely tucked away in museums, I'd advise you to take a tour of London's various street art sites. You'll be able to see something more raw and authentic on your city break.

While the city hotels are very decent, you will find a pleasant place to stay at theOscar Hotel London.

Today, let me tell you about this establishment.

Oscar Hotel London: article summary

Oscar Hotel London: at a glance

A hotel linked to La Reserve Paris, L'Oscar is the first property in London to be owned by renowned hotelier Michel Reybier, and also the first to be designed by French architect Jacques Garcia.

Even though the building is located in one of the city's most historic districts, on Southampton Row, between Covent Garden and Bloomsbury, its interior is reminiscent of Paris.

Here, opulence reigns supreme, from the furniture to the food and everything in between.

Exceptional Old School decor

Jacques Garcia enjoys a reputation for decadence. Just think colonial grandeur meets Old School disco. Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by decorative pieces featuring :

• Dark purple velvets
• Mirrored ceilings inlaid with LED lights
• Golden pompons and cushions.

The hall-turned-library offers some clues to his inspirations: letters by Horace Walpole adorn the shelves alongside reproduced portraits of Oscar Wilde and Virginia Woolf.

Oscar Hotel London: unique rooms

For a relatively small hotel, L'Oscar offers an impressive range of different accommodations: from superior and deluxe rooms to a variety of suites.

The most extravagant of these is, of course, the one that bears the hotel's name, with paneled walls, a fireplace and a huge golden headboard.

The loft suite on the top floor is more sober, with duck-egg-colored walls and a separate living room furnished with Renaissance-style paintings.

The heavily scented toiletries seem a little old-fashioned and, rather than a smart TV, you'll find an old-fashioned entertainment system.

If you don't have the same accessories as in modern hotels, the place is still restful and relaxing.

A very French catering service

L'Oscar takes dining very seriously. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served in the golden restaurant, with a short break between 2:30 and 5pm for tea time and a DJ playing tunes in the evening.

For starters, try the deliciously crispy and juicy popcorn shrimp or the burrata with basil mayonnaise and red tomatoes, followed by cod with black miso.

Or try the delicious roasted whole sea bream with truffle fries. Then head to the Bapist bar for a nightcap under the domed ceiling.

Oscar Hotel London: a very quiet hotel

Space is a luxury in London, and L'Oscar has rightly prioritized rooms and public spaces over trying to make the most of them. to pile on additional facilities.

The advantage is that the hotel never feels overcrowded and, on cold or rainy days, there are plenty of quiet corners to curl up with a book or play a board game.

Things to do around the hotel

Holborn may not be London's most attractive district, but with the West End theatersYou'll never be cut off from the most important places to visit, thanks to the museums and Covent Garden. Plus.., restaurants, bars and stores are all within easy walking distance.

The hotel is also close to two of the city's most original museums.

First, you'll find the John Soane Museum. Located in the former residence of the famous British architect, it's packed with curiosities. You'll find the life-size sarcophagus of the pharaoh of the 19ᵉ dynasty.

You can then head for the recently reopened Hunters' Museum, containing over 3,500 anatomical specimens. Both are located in Lincoln's Fields.

During your stay in London, if you're looking for a good night's rest, I'd recommend staying at the Oscar Hotel London. Click here, you'll enjoy peace and quiet and exceptional facilities for your stay.

If you want to know more what to do in London with childrenyou've come to the right place.

Today, I've put together a list of the most interesting family attractions.

Here we go!

What to do in London with children: article summary

What to do in London with children: visit the city's great playground

Hobbledown Heath is London's largest adventure playground, so without doubt one of the best things to do with children in London, especially for the younger ones.

With indoor and outdoor play areas, a series of play villages in the middle of the woods and even mini animal farms, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

Practical information

The nearest train station is Hounslow Central.

Hobbledown Heath is open daily:

• Monday to Thursday 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
• Friday 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Visit London Zoo

All year round, London Zoo is an easy way to spend your holiday. a great family day out in London.

Founded in 1828, it is the world's oldest scientific zoo and home to almost 20,000 different animals.

There's everything here, from African hunting dogs to pygmy hippos and Komodo dragons, as well as many different habitats.

Add to this a whole range of different experiences your little ones can take part in, including become a junior keeper for the day!

Practical information

You can get there by exiting at Mornington Crescent station.

The zoo remains open:

• Every day 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

What to do in London with children: discover the Natural History Museum

There's a lot to see in the iconic Museum of Natural History. A visit here will also give you the opportunity to see "Hope", the blue whale, as well as exhibitions on :

• Venomous insects
• Earthquakes
• Tornadoes

Practical information

If you get off at South Kensington station, you won't be far from the museum.

The museum opens :

• Every day 10 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.

Take a journey into the world of Avora

Who would have thought that another world was just a few minutes away by train? Get off at Hoxton Sky Station and head for the world of Avora.

At the multi-sensory event Avora: Immersive Family Adventure, you'll follow a scenario that takes you on a journey through the lush world of Avora, while following a mission set by a greedy CEO.

The experience is aimed at children aged 6 to 13. At Avora, they'll take part in fun sensory games and sip two unique beverages.

Next, get in touch with the indigenous "Avorians and generally create unforgettable memories. Actors and superb scenography make the experience even more fun.

Practical information

You can get there by exiting at Hoxton station.

The attraction opens:

• Every Sunday from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

What to do in London with children: Battersea Power Station

Elsewhere on the Battersea Power Station site, Lift 109 is an inspiring activity to do with children.

Climb the glass elevator for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding area, by climbing one of the chimneys of the emblematic building.

In addition to breathtaking views, Elevator 109 also features a selection of carefully curated multimedia exhibits in the Turbine Hall A waiting room.

Practical information

The nearest station is Battersea Power Station.

The attraction opens daily:

• Monday to Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Thursday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Spend an afternoon at the London Aquarium

Home to over 500 different species in 14 different themed areas, a visit to the London Aquarium is a must if you're looking for activities in London with children over the vacations.

There's everything here, from penguins to red-bellied piranhas. It's a place ideal for introducing your little ones to the underwater world.

Meet the ocean's most feared predators on the breathtaking "Shark Walk", catch stingrays in the "Ray Lagoon", tickle a sea anemone in the "Rock Pool" and avoid jellyfish in the aquarium's superb "Ocean Invaders" exhibit.

Practical information

Go to this place, the nearest station is Waterloo.

The aquarium opens:

• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays
• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekend

There's plenty to do with children in London. During your trip, you can discover dozens of attractions for an exceptional family outing.

Runners from all over the world prepare for the London Marathon 2024.

Today, I'm talking about this eagerly awaited annual race.

London Marathon: article summary

What is the London Marathon?

The marathon is one of the world's best-known long-distance running events, and since its first edition in 1981, over a million people have taken part.

The annual event is associated with a number of charities. It has raised billions of pounds for various organizations over the years.

Each year, it attracts elite athletes from around the world, as well as thousands of amateur runners and charity fundraisers. It's known for the diversity and inclusion of its participants.

How to apply?

To apply for the marathon, you must submit your application to their ballot.

Unfortunately, this year's applications are now closed and the selected votes were contacted in July.

But don't worry, you can still take part in one of London's many other races.

Fairly high costs

If you have applied to the marathon ballot and have been selected for the race, you will need to have paid the full entry fee of £69.99 (for UK participants) or 146 (for international participants) for reserving your place.

The deadline for this was Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at 4 p.m.

How difficult is it to qualify for the London Marathon?

Candidates for the marathon ballot are chosen at random, so that all candidates have an equal chance of selection.

However, you can increase your chances of being selected by choosing to donate your entry fee. when you register to vote in the UK.

By doing so, you'll be entered into a second draw for another chance to secure your place in the race.

How long is the London Marathon?

The marathon is the same length as a typical marathon, 42.195 km. The course is largely flat and follows the banks of the Thames.

Where is the finish line?

The London Marathon starts at Greenwich Park and ends at The Mall, near Buckingham Palace.

Runners will also pass many iconic monuments on their way, such as :

• Visit Tower Bridge
• Visit London Eye
• Visit Tower of London

When did the London 2023 marathon take place?

This year's marathon took place on April 23 and was the first race to be held in spring since 2019.

Since then, the races have been held in the autumn, postponed due to Covid-19-related delays. The winner of the 2023 edition was Kenyan rider Kelvin Kiptum, who broke the marathon record with a final time of 2:01:25.

If you're sporty, the London Marathon is a great way to train. For everyone else, you can take part in a charity race that brings together thousands of athletes in the magnificent English capital.