Walk the corridors of power in London

Online, June 1, 2010 (Newswire.com) - London is far more than a centre for international tourism, finance and commerce - it's also the beating heart of the UK's political world.

The city is full of places where key decisions that affect the country and the world are made - and you can see them firsthand if you visit London.

Westminster is obviously one of the first places to go in London if you're on a political tour of the city, as this is where the Houses of Parliament are located.

Visitors to the city can regularly be seen having their photo taken in front of the iconic Big Ben - the clock at the top of the tower that strikes on every hour.

The building, which contains the House of Commons and the House of Lords, is one of the most famous and recognisable London Attractions.

Situated along the Thames, it looks consistently stunning and when you walk past, you cannot help but think of all the historic events and decisions that have been taken inside it over the years.

Seeing this building is one thing, but how much would you like to get an even greater insight into this famous landmark?

You may be lucky enough to get the chance to walk inside the chambers if you book early enough.

Contact your local MP or Lord and they might be able to arrange a place for you on an upcoming tour free of charge.

And if you are not a UK resident, you can purchase tickets for a tour during the summer months.

Demand for a tour around parliament is huge, but if you get lucky, you'll revel in the opportunity to walk in the famous debating chambers and the corridors of power.

Of course, there are many other things to see in London if you want to have a look at how the government operates.

A trip to Westminster should be followed by an excursion down Whitehall, where the Cenotaph and the Ministry of Defence are located.

Many government departments are located in this area and just off the south-west end of Whitehall, you will find Downing Street - home to both the prime minister and the chancellor of the exchequer.
As these are both private residences and places of work, visitors are not allowed to walk along the street and in front of the world famous door to Number 10.

However, you can get a good view of proceedings from the main street, and if you are there at the right time, you may even get a glimpse of a visiting dignitary or world leader.

While the UK is a parliamentary democracy, it does of course have a monarch as its head of state.

As a result, the Queen's main residence - Buckingham Palace - is undeniably one of the main things to see in London.

The royal standard will be flying if the monarch is in residence at the palace, which has been the home of British sovereigns since 1837.

While this is a working building where many royal affairs and engagements are conducted, Buckingham Palace does open its doors to visitors during August and September.

So if you are looking for things to do in London at this time of year, why not book tickets and get a privileged peek inside one of the world's most well-known buildings.

The streets of London are paved with history and all the royal and government buildings evoke strong memories of times gone by.

But these iconic structures and attractions are still used today and the cut and thrust of politics is still very apparent.

So take a trip to the UK capital and see for yourself how and where the country is run.