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.
The famed album acquired its name after the London street where it was recorded. The EMI studios were where the Beatles recorded a lot of their songs, which George Martin produced. The studios changed their name to Abbey Road Studios in 1970 when the band finished recording an album which later proved to be their last recording together.
Astonishingly, the Beatles are still as famous today as they ever were. They have fans (old and new) from all over the world making the pilgrimage every year to Abbey Road, London. The fans have to be patient, and wait for the traffic to clear, before they can have their photos taken just like the Beatles did, walking across the black and white pedestrian crossing.
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.
So, next time you visit London, consider taking one of the many tours of the city. Some tours of London focus on those places associated with famous musicians and the swinging sixties while others take in the typical tourist attractions of Buckingham Palace and the likes. Remember that there are many incredible places to visit that are well off the well beaten tourist map of London and, with only a little investigation, you will find yourself discovering hidden London.