Shakespeare, Dickens, and Chaucer, plus an ever-growing list of fictional characters from Oliver Twist to Harry Potter, have imbued London with a literary dimension unlike any other city on earth.

Nearly every portion of London, first founded by Romans in 50 AD, has a story to tell. From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, history permeates almost every corner of the city.

London is layered with history, where medieval and Victorian complement a rich and vibrant modern world. The Tower of London and Westminster neighbor local pubs and markets, and time-worn rituals like the changing of the guards take place as commuters rush to catch the Tube. It’s a place where travelers can time-hop through the city, and when they’re weary, do as Londoners do and grab a “cuppa” tea.