London welcomed nearly 19 million international visitors in 2015, once again topping the MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. A visit to London remains one of the best ways to experience European history, culture and charm. From the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and a ride on the London Eye to cruising the Thames beneath Tower Bridge, exploring expansive parks, viewing the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London and enjoying world-class theater in the West End, the city offers an unmatched variety of attractions.
The north entrance of Westminster Abbey © Constantin Opris | Dreamstime.com
While many visitors come for sightseeing, a significant portion of travelers arrive for business. London’s economy is supported not only by tourism but also by strong technology and life sciences sectors. A study by the developer community Stack Overflow reported that London hosts more tech talent than any other major city, with an estimated 70,000 professional developers and expected tech workforce growth of about 22 percent over the next decade.
Major tech companies including Google, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft maintain research and development hubs in London. Amazon completed a major office move in 2015, adding thousands of employees to the city. Google’s new £1 billion European headquarters near St. Pancras International further signals London’s importance as a tech center. Tech clusters such as Tech City, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Croydon support startups, while government investment—around £830 million to expand super-fast broadband—and more than 23,000 local students studying computer science help sustain growth.
“London is a hotbed for tech talent. With Europe’s fastest-growing tech hub and some of the world’s leading universities, London-based businesses can benefit from access to an unparalleled talent pool,” says Boris Johnson, mayor of London. He notes that five years after the creation of Tech City the capital’s tech sector continues to be a leading source of jobs and growth.
Venture capital has played a large role in fueling the tech economy. Entrepreneurs can enter the U.K. to secure funding and later switch to a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa to establish or take over a business. Applicants typically need access to at least £200,000 of investment funds; the initial visa is granted for 40 months and can be extended for an additional two years.
According to IBM’s Global Location Trends report, London led global foreign investment in 2014, generating more than 11,000 jobs. Financial technology firms have attracted significant funding, with peer-to-peer lenders such as Funding Circle raising substantial capital and changing how small businesses access loans.
The life sciences sector is also expanding. A new cancer center opening in 2017 at the former Royal Masonic Hospital in Hammersmith will employ about 2,000 health professionals and offer proton beam therapy, a precision radiation treatment that minimizes damage to surrounding tissue. MedCity, a medical research and development cluster, has grown into one of Europe’s largest centers for biological research. About 50,000 students a year study medicine at London universities, and the city ranks second to Boston in the production of medical research papers.
For American visitors, the shared language removes communication barriers, though road rules—driving on the left—might take some adjustment. London’s iconic taxi drivers are still trusted guides through the city. Beyond work, visitors can explore four UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit the Science Museum—home to Puffing Billy, the oldest steam engine from 1813—and catch West End shows. Exhibitions and shows, such as a major Rolling Stones archive display at the Saatchi Gallery and new West End productions, keep the cultural calendar lively.
Things to Do in London
Harrods Food Hall offers an extravagant food experience with aisles of sweets, chocolates and international cuisine. Sample gelato at Morelli’s Gelato Fountain, browse the gourmet counters and visit the pet department on the fourth floor.
Pastry department at Harrods © Tinamou | Dreamstime.com
The British Museum, a national treasure since the 1750s, houses global artifacts including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, Saxon ship treasures, Easter Island heads and Egyptian mummies. The Churchill War Rooms offer a compelling glimpse into Britain’s World War II leadership and wartime strategy.
CHECKING IN WITH JEREMY GORING
Fourth-generation hotelier, The Goring
The Goring caters to individual guests. © Slawek Kozakiewicz | Dreamstime.com
How does a hotel like The Goring, built in 1910, stay relevant when every upscale brand in the travel industry features a lodging in London?
Irrelevance is the new relevance. As a small, independent hotel, we focus on surprising and delighting guests with personal touches others might not offer.
What special services at The Goring truly enhance your guests’ stay?
Our attentively attired footmen and personalized service aim to create memorable, tailor-made experiences for each guest.
As London continues to thrive, what do you find particularly exciting about the city these days?
The city’s energy and constant change are thrilling—every day brings something different.
The city is so vast, you must have coveted spots to escape the crowds. Can you divulge your secrets?
For a quieter retreat, visit Cornwall. In London, try Maltby Street Market for great food if you arrive early, or enjoy a peaceful moment by the fire in The Goring’s Nook and Cranny.
What one classic London sight or museum do you still enjoy visiting, and why?
Buckingham Palace remains special: it’s a working palace where visitors can feel connected to history while surrounded by an important European art collection.
London: Just the Facts
Time Zone: GMT
Phone Code: Country code: 44 City code: 20
Currency: British pound
Entry/Exit Requirements: U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay. No visa is required for stays under 90 days.
Official Language: English
Key Industries: Tourism, technology, life sciences
London Info to Go
Heathrow Airport is about 15 miles west of central London and can be reached by taxi or public transport. A taxi ride typically costs £45–70 and takes roughly an hour. The Heathrow Express is a faster option: a 15-minute train to central London with fares that vary depending on advance purchase and class.
Where to Stay in London
The Goring Family-owned for more than a century, this 71-room 5-star hotel sits just behind Buckingham Palace, within easy walking distance of the Royal Parks. Beeston Place $$$$$
One Aldwych Overlooking the Thames near Covent Garden, One Aldwych is known for stylish public spaces, spacious suites and a refined restaurant. 1 Aldwych $$$$$
The Savoy A historic grande dame restored after an extensive refurbishment, The Savoy offers rooms with views of the Thames and proximity to many central attractions. Strand $$$$$
Restaurants in London
Al Hamra Restaurant Located in Mayfair’s Shepherd Market, Al Hamra serves refined Middle Eastern cuisine in a charming, historic setting. 31-33 Shepherd Market, Mayfair $$$
The Anchor & Hope A classic gastropub in Waterloo offering hearty British dishes and a warm, traditional atmosphere. 36 The Cut $$$
Duck & Waffle Perched on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, Duck & Waffle pairs panoramic city views with inventive cuisine—an excellent choice for a special evening. 110 Bishopsgate $$$$