In Burning Bright, the second book in the popular YA series, The Rise And Fall of Dani Truehart, teenage pop-singing sensation Dani Truehart jets around the globe on her first world tour. Grab a cuppa and check out some of the best things to see and do in London:
The London Eye
Located near the O2 arena where Dani is performing, the most popular tourist attraction in the UK offers a 360 degree view of London for tourists who want to see it all but don’t actually want to drive there. If heights aren’t a problem for you, enjoy a thirty-minute ride in of one of the thirty-two glass enclosed capsules and enjoy the majestic beauty as one of the world’s greatest city spreads out below you.
Buckingham Palace
Of course the Queen of Harts is going to visit the Palace! Serving as both the official home and offices of the British Royal family, Buckingham Palace is a must see. Open to the public for tours during the summer it’s worth a visit off season. The lively changing of the guard ceremony is worth the wait!
Harrods
Just like Dani, schedule at least half a day to see this world famous department store, which is a must-see for any shopper. Set on five acres in London’s tony Knightsbridge area, Harrods offers every luxury product and service you can think of. If you plan on seeing everything Harrods has to offer, remember to take a break in the Food Hall and refresh yourself with a snack from the hundreds of food stalls.
Carnaby Street
Dani’s mob of loyal fans kept her from experiencing this local gem, but hopefully you won’t miss out! Located in the heart of London’s West End, Carnaby is a funky shopping and dining destination you can’t miss. Beloved by locals and tourists alike, the popular SoHo location offers a mix of local and international designer shops, eateries and pubs with vibrant decorations suspended between the buildings.
Tower of London
Let’s hope The Queen of Harts doesn’t pick up any tips from Henry VIII! Even the bravest among you will experience a shiver of fear as you tour this imposing structure on the banks of the Thames. Serving as a castle, fortress and prison at various times, this iconic British Heritage site does not disappoint. Visit the glittering crown jewels, see the etchings in the ancient stones made by tower prisoners and try to catch site of one of the many ghosts said to haunt the troubled grounds.
Football
A packed schedule kept Dani from catching a match, but if you’re not a bust pop star maybe you can catch a footie match at any one of the stadiums that dot the city. Whether you choose Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham or Crystal Palace, get ready to sing because the fans go nuts for their local clubs and there’s nothing better than when the fans start singing their club anthems in the stands.
The Underground
Dani and Martin had to skip the subway because of the crowds of fans, but if driving on the left side of the road is too much for you, then hop on The London Underground. The best way for locals and tourists alike to traverse the boroughs of London, the London subway system is a cheap and easy way to see the city.
Museums
Unfortunately, Dani didn’t have time to see any of the amazing museums London has to offer. The National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, Imperial The Imperial War Museum, The Tate Modern…the list goes on and on. There are over 250 art museums alone in London. There is a museum for every taste. The Victoria and Albert is a personal favorite – the perfect mix of art, historical and pop culture.
High Tea
An absolute must, high tea is a true artform in England. Whether you steal a private table at the Ritz like Dani and Martin or pop into a tea room on a Brompton Road, come hungry and feast on finger sandwiches, crumbly scones with clotted cream and jam and petit fours while you sip a perfect cup of hot tea and chat. A wonderful way to end a day of sightseeing.