It's going to be a big year for London...

Few people will argue that London is not the place to be in 2012. The London Olympics are expected to be some of the most watched sporting events in history and Queen Elizabeth II’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee has already got the entire country in the mood for a party.

Celebrations in honour of the Jubilee are set to begin already on the 6th of February. This will mark the 60th anniversary of Elizabeth’s ascension to the British throne. The real show however is only scheduled to kick off in June, just a few weeks before the Summer Olympics.

Britons will be graced with a four-day holiday and a Diamond Jubilee concert produced by Gary Barlow (one of the head judges on the X-Factor reality television show). A maritime parade of more than 1,000 boats will make its way up the River Thames and the Queen herself is expected to join the flotilla atop a golden barge. Events have also been organised in several Commonwealth countries around the world, including Australia and Canada.

London hosted the Olympics back in 1908 and 1948, and with this year’s event it will become the first city to host the modern Games on three occasions. Kicking off on the 27th of July and running until the 12th of August, the London Olympics will be a big tourist draw card for the entire United Kingdom. Music lovers will also be pleased to hear that English rock legends Pink Floyd are expected to reunite to perform at the Olympics and Sir Paul McCartney will also make an appearance at the Games.

If you’re looking to experience one of 2012’s hottest holiday destinations, London really should be at the top of your list. Download our free audio travel guides to help you discover more about the must-see attractions of London, or let us guide you on a walking tour of the city.