London calling: Five amazing and different architectural designs

The capital of the United Kingdom and England, London is a city brimming with incredible buildings and architecture. The tourist hot-spots of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament have been written about in almost every London attraction list possible, but there are some wonderful buildings that are often left behind. Here are such five.

King’s Cross Railway Station

Yes, a railway station is included in this last, and, for very good reason too. Fans of Harry Potter will recognize King’s Cross for its Platform 9 ¾ at the heart of the capital. The historic railway has not always been so, in fact, it was once a River Fleet crossing point, giving the station an even greater and more complex story.

Though it has undergone some refinement in recent years courtesy of traditional English brick, the whole magic of the station has been kept. And, as a commuter or tourist getting to London by train, it is usually the first thing you will see.

Banqueting House

Banqueting House has a long history; indeed, it was once part of the Palace of Whitehall, but is now a museum with government offices dominating the rest of Whitehall.

It was the first structure to be built in the neo-classical style which transformed English architecture, giving the House a prominent place in English history. Built in 1622, the Banqueting House is a Grade I listed building, home to the Apotheosis of James I – which outlined the English and Scottish union. It is also the place where Charles I was beheaded, further cementing the House in its place in English folklore.

The Ritz

An elegant building both inside and out, the Ritz is a luxury heaven: it hosts the hotel, celebrated restaurants and also a popular gaming hall. The Ritz’ traditional Paris style epitomises the luxury living of the elite. The classy architecture is worth the admission fee alone.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Designed by the famous Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral was erected in 1697 and is still one of London’s main attractions. The cathedral is the highest point of the City of London, sitting above Ludgate Hill. A Grade I listed building, the cathedral was designed in the English Baroque style and somehow survived the Blitz during World War Two. A must-see if you head to the capital.

Oxo Tower

The South Bank’s most eye-catching structure, the Oxo Tower overlooks the River Thames and has been a prominent figure over the borough’s skyline ever since it was created in 1900. It was redesigned in the Art Deco style in the late 1920s after being sold to the Liebig Extract of Meat Company.

Despite being planned as a power plant for the nearby Royal Post Office, the Oxo Tower is a hotbed for shoppers and workers with shops, restaurants and offices filling the building. You cannot miss the Oxo Tower’s unique lettering, especially at night when it lights up.

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