London

London has 2,000 years of constantly changing history. This unique ability to reinvent itself while retaining its eternal character is what makes the capital such an intriguing place to stage an event. The past never leaves London - it informs and enlivens the present. Traditional architecture and awe inspiring landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament face innovative building design and 21st century attractions such as 30 St Mary Axe (fondly referred to as ‘the gherkin’) and the London Eye.

Diverse

London is a vibrant and multi-cultural destination that’s easy to meet in and impossible to forget. it’s a city of value just waiting to unlock the potential of any event. Delegates can take advantage of London’s free attractions; there are over 100 to explore including the British Museum, Tate Modern and V&A. The capital also hosts a range of events throughout the year, from organic food markets to street parties, cultural celebrations and sporting events.

There are always new things to discover, from incredible shopping, amazing attractions to world-class arts and culture. There are more than 40,000 shops including Europe’s largest urban retail complex Westfield Stratford 49 Michelin-starred restaurants more than 6,000 restaurants offering fares from approximately 70 countries 300 museums and galleries 150 theatres147 parks more than 10,000 bars and clubs, and four World Heritage sites (Tower of London, Kew Gardens, Maritime Greenwich and the Palace of Westminster)

Award winning

In October 2009, London won the gold award for Best Conference Destination in the inaugural Conference & Incentive Travel magazine (C&IT) Hot List. In the past, London has also won ‘Best European City for Business’ at the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, ‘Best City to do Business In’, as voted for by Eurostat readers and ‘World’s Leading Destination’ at the World Travel Awards. In 2009, Visit London, the official visitor organisation for the capital, received the North American Meetings & Conventions magazine Gold Service Award, honouring Convention & Visitors Bureaux that have excelled in professionalism and dedication in their service to meeting professionals.