The capital of the UK is London. It is economical, political and commertial centre of the country. London is the largest city in Europe and one of the largest in the world. Itspopulation1 is more than 8 million.Numerous2 historic and cultural places are in London. It was founded by3 the Romans more than 20 centuries ago. And now the city is situated on4 the river Thames. Itis usually divided5 into 4 parts: the West End, the East end, the City and Westminster.The oldest part is the City. Now it is financial and business centre. There are numerous banks, firms and companies here. The Bank of England, the Old Bailey, the Stock Exchange6 are concentrated there. People don’t live here. Many of them come to work to this part. Also you can see two masterpieces7 in this part of the city: St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. The first one was built in the 17th centure by Christopher Wren. The second one was built in the 11th centure and used as a fortress, a prison and a palace. But now it is a museum.Westminster is called the aristoctatic8 and official part of London. It includes9 theBuckingham Palace where the Royal family lives. Also you will find the Houses of Parliament here streching 10 along the north bank11 of the Thames. One of the most famous part of this great building is the Clock Tower. It is famous for12 its big hour bell, which you know as «Big Ben». There you can see the colourful ceremonies: the changing of the Guard. All kings and queens are coronated in Westminster Abbey. Also many members of the royal family13 and some other famous people were buried14 here. For example: Ch. Dickens, R. Kipling, G. Chaucer. This part of the Abbey is called Poet’s corner.The West end can be called as the richest part of the capital. It is a symbol of wealth and luxury. There you can find the best hotels, great restaurants, big shops, luxurious clubs, beautiful parks and nice houses. In this region English aristocraty15 lives. Oxford street is one of the busiest here.The Admiral Nelson was the leader of at the battle of Trafalgar and in his honour the tallNelson’s Column was built in the middle of Trafalgar square. Opposite you will see theNational Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery and the British museum. The last one is famous for its large library.The East end is an industrial district16 of London. Plants, factories are situated here. Also you can visit the Port of London in this part. Working class lives here. Old residents17 of the East End are often called cockneys18. This name means true Londoners, hereditary inhabitants19 of the area. And they are proud of it.So. Why is London so popular? Because it offers a great variety of places of interest. It is like a dream for them who is interested in English culture and history.