A stone, called the London, has been in place since 1280 marking the furthest westward extent of London. Staines grew as a crossing point on the River Thames and a plaque there marks the spot where horses were changed on the Trafalgar Way.
The A4 going east passes through Richmond, Kew and Twickenham. Richmond is a pretty borough on the banks of the Thames with attractive bridges and riverside walks. It is also the location of the former royal hunting ground of Richmond Park. The park still has its herd of deer and is a great place to go to escape the bustle of the city. Kew has its world famous botanical gardens, recognised as the premier botanical research institute in the world. Don’t miss the palm house with its towering specimens. On a cold day, the warmth and humidity inside is also very welcome.
For rugby fans, Twickenham is a must. The home of English rugby, the stadium has a fascinating museum detailing the fortunes of the side over the last century. From the airport the A312 travels southeast to Hampton, site of the historic Tudor Hampton Court Palace. Whilst there, take a look at the oldest real tennis court in the world.
29th October 2012: British Airways have grounded flights to and from the east coast of America due to the threat of Hurricane Sandy. Virgin has also cancelled flights to New York, Washington and Boston.
16th July 2012: Heathrow Airport had its busiest day as thousands of athletes landed. Heathrow usually handles 100,000 - 110,000 arrivals a day but today this has swelled up to 121,239 arrivals.
31st May 2012: Heathrow Airport have displayed a huge Union Jack Flag on the runway with an image of the queen to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. The flag covers an area of over 540 metres.
29th May 2012: Heathrow Airport could be turned into a beautiful, environmentally garden city if the government decides to built a new airport according to planning experts. Terminal 1,2,3 would be a mixed-use commercial development and terminal 4 would be homes for 30,000 people.
26th April 2012: Parking at Airports can cost holidaymakers more than the price of their flight! Britons who do not book parking in advance could end up paying triple the price, Heathrow Airport are charging from £120.00 a week.