by Sheila Richardson

Probably the only city that can rival New York as the world's greatest, London is a fantastic place to visit. There are so many museums, galleries and historic buildings, you could spend a fortnight there and barely scratch the surface. And when you combine this with arguably the best shops and restaurants in Europe, we really are lucky to have this great metropolis right on our doorstep. Here are some suggestions for a great day out in London:

London Eye, County Hall

Buckingham Palace

The grandest house in the London is open to the public from July 26th to September 24th every year when The Queen takes her annual holiday in Scotland. Admission is £14 for adults and £8 for the children every day from 9.30am to 6pm. For more information call 0207 7667300 or go to www.royal.gov.uk

Victoria & Albert Museum, South Kensington

The Victoria and Albert is one of the greatest museums in the world with an unrivaled collection of artifacts from all over the world. Entry to the museum is free although you may have to pay for certain exhibitions. Opening times are from 10am to 5.45om every day of the week. On Wednesdays and the last Friday of each month, doors stay open until 10pm. For further details call 0207 9422000 or go to www.vam.co.uk

London Zoo, Regent’s Park

London Zoo is still one of the world's greatest animal parks with an amazing selection of animals living in spectacular manmade habitats. Entry to the zoo is currently £13 for adults and £9.75 for the kids every day from 10am till 5.30pm. In the winter months doors close slightly earlier at 4pm. For further details call 020 7722 3333 or go to www.londonzoo.co.uk

Tate Modern, South Bank

The fantastic Tate Modern is one of Europe's finest collections of modern and contemporary art. Situated right by the river, it's a terrific setting to appreciate sensational art work. Admission is free for everyone although donations are most welcome and some exhibitions may charge. The museum opens every day from 10am to 6pm. On Fridays and Saturdays doors stay open until 10pm. For further details call 020 7887 8000 or go to www.tate.org.uk

More places to go in London