by Phil Hamilton
London, the capital city of England in the United Kingdom of Great Britain, is one of the top vacation destinations in Europe. One of the main reasons for the popularity of London is the fact that it has so many historically important buildings and landmarks as well as a number of world class tourist attractions. While many of the top places to visit are either directly or indirectly related to the Royal Family of Great Britain the ancient traditions and historical institutions add to the unique appeal of this wonderfully diverse city.
England and the United Kingdom have had a profound effect upon modern history with the likes of the British Empire and their parts in the two world wars changing the political map of world several times within a relatively short period. With the home of the ruling King or Queen, and the Houses of Parliament, being in London it was in the city that the vast majority of important decisions were made and the most influential events took place. During the 1960's London arose as the UK's music capital with events such as the "Ally Pally Pothead Rally" and numerous nightclubs, cafes and bars, the period is now referred to as the "Swinging 60's".
One of the most readily recognizable streets in London, viewed from a particular angle is Abbey Road. This view is the one on the cover of the Beatles album, Abbey Road. John, Paul, George and Ringo are pictured strolling across the black and white striped pedestrian crossing.
Many fans found the album cover distressing. It was rumoured that Paul McCartney had died in a car accident, and this photograph was proof. The clues that supported the rumour were, Paul had his eyes closed, was walking barefoot, he was smoking using his right hand when he was left handed and all the other members of the Beatles had their left feet forward but Paul had his right foot forward. These are only the most common clues said to be in the photograph.
Abbey Road, the celebrated album was named after the street in London where the EMI Studios were situated (3 Abbey Road). With EMI Producer George Martin, the Beatles recorded most of their songs at these studios. The studios were renamed in 1970 to Abbey Road Studios. This was after the Beatles recorded their last ever album together.
The astonishing success the Beatles found is still as strong as ever today. This is evident every year when fans from all over the world make the grand tour to London to visit Abbey Road. The fans, both old and new come to have their photographs taken, like their idols, strolling across the pedestrian crossing. This can be problematic, as the fans have to wait for a break in the traffic, to be able to do this.
The studio is situated within a converted Georgian townhouse, in the fashionable residential area of St John's Wood. The building has ample space for more than one studio as the garden has been encroached upon with buildings in this area too. The property next door is also owned by EMI, and is used by the recording artists working in the studios. In 1967 the Beatles recorded their remarkable album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band at the Abbey Road Studio. In total they spent over 18 weeks there.
When planning a visit to the Uk, Abbey Road is often found amongst the lists of landmarks to visit. So whilst on holiday here you might like to have your photograph taken at the world famous studios or emulate the Beatles and have your photograph taken whilst walking across the road.
London has plenty of places to visit, Buckingham Palace, London Zoo and many other typical tourist attractions but the city of London also has a large number of places to visit that are not so well known. These places are well worth the effort to discover them and this is done easily over the Internet or by purchasing a quality guidebook to London. The next time you find yourself in the city you should take the time to visit one or two of these special places or maybe take in one of the organized tours that cover a vast range of topics besides the usual tours of landmarks.
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