An artistic tour of London this spring

One of the most diverse and esteemed cities in Europe, London is a cultural hub to rival any other. With an action packed year ahead that will see the English capital host the biggest sporting events in the world – the Olympics and Paralympics in July and August respectively – London has never been invested in so heavily. Transport and infrastructure has improved greatly in recent years making this great city more accessible than ever for Brits looking to enjoy a staycation, and for those travelling from foreign lands.

Teaming with a variety of London attractions, the city is best explored by foot in order to take in the vast skyline and architectural feats. For a particularly good overview of the city viewing points at famed London landmarks such as the Tower of London, Oxo Tower and the London Eye will enable you to get your bearings.

If you have a passion for architecture, the choice of sites to explore in London is endless. Look out for the almost completed Shard, the Gherkin and Boris Johnson’s HQ, City Hall. The perfect juxtaposition of new and old, modern buildings are intermixed with more traditional landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and slightly further afield Windsor Castle. Whilst taking in the magnificence of these British institutions you’ll also get to learn more about the Monarchy.

The creative hub of the UK, visitors can choose from a wealth of creative pursuits. Theatregoers can enjoy a variety of highly acclaimed production in the West End’s Theatreland district. Catch classics such as the world’s longest running American musical Chicago, and new favourite War Horse. For something a little more classic visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the South Bank.

For those who like their art modern, there is no better gallery than the sprawling Tate Modern. Situated in the former Bankside Power Station, Tate Modern showcases international modern and contemporary art dating from 1900 to the present day. Time your trip to coincide with Damien Hirst’s first comprehensive retrospective which opens in April.

Another retrospective bound to garner attention is that of David Hockney at the Royal Academy. Look back at over 50 years of his landscape portraits in the institute’s most ambitious exhibition to date, which sees the artist fill all of the galleries, a feat never achieved before.

London museums also have plenty to offer, especially if the weather takes a turn for the worse. On the last Friday of the month the V&A Museum host Friday Late; a diverse programme encompassing a variety of special events including live performances, fashion shows, workshops, debates, pop-up bars and restaurants, guest DJs, and of course, extended exhibition opening hours.

The British and Design Museums, Tate Galleries, and National and Portrait Galleries also offer late admission so if you want to sight-see by day and enjoy some art or history at night, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

In every capital you’ll also find myriad free art attractions which will enable your budget to go further. Following on from the success of the Elephant Family charity’s public installation of large-scale elephants in 2010, this spring will see London decorated with oversized eggs in the run up to Easter. Entitled Egg Hunt, the Elephant Family has commissioned two hundred prolific artists to decorate 2.5 foot fibreglass sculptures that will be displayed across London’s busiest streets.

No matter what your budget, or whether you prefer theatre over museums, London has something for all tastes and creative persuasions.