On which the Sun Never Sets

For centuries, nearly 1/4 the population lived under control of the British Empire. Its lands covered across the globe, making it the largest empire in history. Since it has constant growth, the day never ended on Queen Victoria’s empire, as what the expression means.

Since 1837, Buckingham Palace has served as an administrative headquarter of the monarch. It is a residence supporting the royal’s daily activities, as well as holding the official events and receptions. Royal Balcony appearances have marked many historical occasions.

Westminster Abbey has been the site of coronation for British monarchs since 1066. Aside from some ceremonies, such as the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, it is the final resting place for 30 Kings and Queens, and some well-known writers.

For most private weekends, the Queen spends in Windsor Castle. Founded in the 11th century, it has been the home of 39 monarchs. Besides the Grand Reception Room, the exquisite Queen Mary's Dolls' House and the stately St George's Chapel are some of the highlights.

Today, the UK is a constitutional monarchy. The monarch is the head of state, while the constitution allocates the rest power to the legislature and judiciary. Though the Prime Minister meets the monarch every Wednesday. 10 Downing Street is now the political center.

Lying next to the River Thames, the Palace of Westminster is the meeting place for both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. In the reconstruction in 1844, the Big Ben with 4 clock faces featuring 312 pieces of glass each, was included. First struck was in 1859.

The British Museum is the epitome of the empire. Opened in 1759, it was a national museum covering human history across the world. Its design reflects “wondrous objects housed inside”, emulated with classical Greek-style columns with 4 vast wings.

Mummies and coffins, items designed to be buried with the deceased, allows us to explore death and the afterlife, from the perspective of ancient Egyptians. Rosetta Stone with 3 types of writing, unlocked our understanding of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Assyrian sculpture provided protection. A Nereid Monument dedicated to a Turkish ruler. The Dunhuang mural depicted the Goddess of Mercy. Looking at the moai, a carved basalt from Easter Island, the sequel of Night at the Museum might be filmed here one day.

Sun never sets, yet the UK is notorious for its weather. For nature lovers, why not visit the eight Royal Parks? Hire a rowing boat in the Regent Park, where it has over 12,000 roses planted. There is also a large bowl supported with stone lions in the Avenue Gardens.

Escape to Richmond Park is an alternative. A wide open space with grasslands and deer herds. It is just a stone’s throw from Central London. The sunset is full of charm. Enjoy the distant view of St Paul’s Cathedral from King Henry’s Mound.

To connect some of these attractions requires bridges. London Bridge, Millennium Bridge, and the magnificent Tower Bridge. It offers you a panoramic view from the glass. Avant garde skyscrapers include the Shard, Gherkin and Lloyd’s buildings. Roadway rises when it lifts.

Hidden treasures you can discover. Enjoying a timeless classic in HM Theater. Watching the Premier League in Emirates Stadium. And flying high in the London Eye. As Peter Pan said, the moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it.

Let me take you by the hand

And lead you through the streets of London

I'll show you something

To make you change your mind

— Streets of London, Ralph McTell