The United Kingdom's capital London is one of the world's most popular travel destinations - and looking at the history of the city, this comes to no surprise. First recognised as a settlement in 47 AD with the name Londinium, the metropolis London has grown to be the largest city in the United Kingdom.

The many legends and historic events happening in the bustling town have inspired many stories and movies, including those of Jack the Ripper or Dr. Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Exciting tours taking you through the historic parts of 19th century Victorian London give you a glimpse into the settings of the stories.

London offers many historic buildings, from the Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Kensington Palace, the Parliament, Buckingham Palace and many more, but you may have heard about those already. So, let's look at some highlights that London has to offer to visitors interested in theatre, games and leisure.

Who hasn't heard of the West End in London?!? Theatre is one of the most important entertainment option in the City of London, with some of the biggest shows running. From cabaret to musicals or Shakespeare, you can find a broad variety, and experience a high-end show any time of the year.

Running over 20 years now, the international hit musical Mamma Mia is playing at the Novello Theatre. You can also experience the futuristic Back to the Future: The Musical at the Adelphi, or a magical visit to the land of Oz in the musical Wicked, playing at the Apollo Theatre, to name a few, with dozens more available.

It's not just the plays that are interesting, also the theatres themselves have a lot of history, with the Theatre Royal Drury Lane being the oldest, dating back with its original structure to 1660, and opening in 1663. Other impressive theatre buildings are the Haymarket, built in 1729, the Criterion at Piccadilly Circus and the Royal Opera House at Covent Garden.

The sheer number of shows can be overwhelming for any fan of Broadway theatre, and with the limited time of a holiday you'll need to choose carefully which show you'd rather see. Of course, you can always come back! London is a place enjoyed by many returning visitors.

London also has an interesting history with gambling, and attracted many VIP players over the years, visiting its luxurious VIP casinos, such as Crockford's that was opened in 1823, and offers exclusive treatment to its members.

If you're in London's bustling Chinatown, you may also step into Genting Casino Chinatown, or you can visit the historic Empire Casino at Leicester Square that was first opened in 1884.

Casinos in London often have dress-codes and cater to a more exclusive clientele. But the historic buildings are also interesting to look at if you just want to admire them for their visual charm. Many of the casinos also offer an online presence, which means you can visit the casino online, and play the games from the comfort of your home.

To relax from sightseeing you can visit one of the many leisure centres or parks in London and Greater London. Richmond Park and Bushy Park are some of the largest parks in London.

As former royal hunting grounds, many herds of deer roam the enclosed parks, and you can stroll along and admire the close proximity to friendly deer, as they are used to people sharing the park with them. Keep an eye out for ring-necked green parakeet - there are thousands flying around south-west London, and they can often be spotted in the parks!

Oct. 20, 2021, 4:19 p.m.