London

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	The Tower Bridge was erected between 1886 and 1894 and is still the only bridge to span the River Thames below London Bridge. The bridge is about 800 feet long between the abutment towers and 200 feet between the massive Gothic towers whose twin bascules rise periodically to allow ships to pass.
	The Buckingham Palace, the principal residence of the sovereign, faces the west end of St. James's Park. The impressive classical facade was reconstructed by Sir Aston Webb in 1913, and it overlooks a large forecourt which is now patrolled by sentries of the Guards' Division in full dress uniform (below).

	The Windsor Castle was constructed 900 years ago, by William the Conqueror with the help of his victorious army. The site was chosen with great care: high above the River Thames, on the edge of a Saxon hunting ground, the Castle was a day's march from the Tower of London and was designed to guard the western approaches to the capital. Today, Windsor Castle continues to perform its prime role as one of the Official Residences of the Queen.
	The Houses of Parliament are more visually dramatic, comprising of a rambling set of late-gothic style buildings bordering the River Thames. Designed by Sir Charles Barry, they were begun in 1840 and the first parliament here was held in 1852. At the north end of the building stands the clock tower housing the huge bell known as "Big Ben" which strikes hourly and weighs more than thirteen tons.