With the magnificent River Thames flowing through its heart, London is home to the Royal Family, a hub of finance, a seat of government, a centre for the arts, and a host to international sporting events.This book forms a tour of the city's historic streets, which feature medieval and classical architecture, sumptuous palaces and distinctive bridges, and modern skyscrapers such as The Shard.It captures the rich characters of Soho and Chinatown, London’s quaint squares and verdant parks, the vibrant theatreland, the ubiquitous London pub, the fine museums and art galleries and the stadia that host sporting spectacles from Wimbledon to the World Cup.This comprehensive and fully updated tourist memento presents a visual guide to the city's pomp and pageantry, celebrations, carnivals, and glittering nightlife. It celebrates the rich ethnic mix of diverse cultures that nevertheless exudes the unique character of London.