From Nature to History: Best Things to Do in London, Kentucky.
London is a small city in southeastern Kentucky, United States. It is the county seat of Laurel County and is home to a population of approximately 8,000 people.
The city was established in the 19th century and has a rich history reflected in its many cultural landmarks, museums, and historical sites.
London is a charming and welcoming destination that offers many attractions, including outdoor activities, cultural events, and historical landmarks.
One of the key attractions of London is its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and scenic rivers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the many parks and recreational areas in and around the city. In addition to its natural beauty, London is also home to several cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters, that showcase the history and culture of the region.
London has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. It has a thriving downtown area home to various shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and small-town charm, London is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kentucky.
| London, Kentucky | |
|---|---|
| Location | Southeastern Kentucky, USA |
| County | Laurel County |
| Established | 1836 |
| Population | 8,053 (as of 2020 US Census) |
| City Area | 11.61 square miles |
| Zip code(s) | 40741-40745 |
| Area code(s) | 606 |
| Mayor | Randall Weddle |
| Nickname | “Cycling Capital of Kentucky” |
| Famous | Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park, London Dragway |
| City hall website | https://www.londonky.gov/ |
| Google map | https://www.google.com/maps/place/London,+KY/ |
Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park
Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park is an 896-acre park in London, Kentucky, known for its rich history, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The park is named after Levi Jackson, a pioneer who settled in the area in the late 1700s and helped blaze the Wilderness Road, a vital route for westward migration during America’s early history.
Visitors to the park can take a stroll through history on the Pioneer Homesteaders’ Farm and the McHargue’s Mill, both of which provide a glimpse into the life of early settlers in Kentucky.
The park’s hiking trails are a popular attraction, with over 10 miles of trails winding through the scenic woods and hills of the park. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and offer something for hikers of all skill levels.
One of the most popular trails is the Moonshiner’s Arch Trail, which leads to a stunning natural arch formation that provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park is also home to various recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, picnic areas, playgrounds, and campsites.
The park hosts several events throughout the year, including a Mountain Heritage Festival, a Halloween festival, and a Christmas lighting event.
Mountain Life Museum
The Mountain Life Museum is a fascinating attraction located in the heart of London, Kentucky, that provides visitors with an immersive experience of life in the Appalachian Mountains during the 19th century. The museum is situated within Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park.
It features a collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the everyday life of early pioneers in the area.
Visitors can explore a variety of log cabins, a blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and other period buildings and gain a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of life in the mountains.
One of the highlights of the Mountain Life Museum is the working gristmill, initially built in the early 1800s and restored to its original condition. The gristmill is powered by a waterwheel and features a variety of antique milling equipment, giving visitors an up-close look at the process of grinding corn and wheat into meal and flour.
In addition, the museum offers hands-on workshops and demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills, such as quilting, soap making, and weaving, that were an essential part of life in the mountains.
The Mountain Life Museum is a valuable educational resource for students and anyone interested in learning about the history of the Appalachian Mountains. The museum offers a range of educational programs and tours, including a guided tour of the historic buildings, a pioneer experience for children, and a program on Appalachian music and culture.
With its authentic buildings, period artifacts, and engaging exhibits, the Mountain Life Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a glimpse into the past of this fascinating region of Kentucky.
Wood Creek Lake
Wood Creek Lake is a beautiful reservoir located just a few miles north of London, Kentucky, that offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors.
The lake was created in 1969 as part of a flood control project by the US Army Corps of Engineers and covered an area of approximately 672 acres. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the main attractions of Wood Creek Lake is its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is home to various fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers of all levels.
In addition, the lake offers several boat ramps and a marina, making it easy to get out on the water and enjoy a day of fishing or boating.
Wood Creek Lake is also a popular destination for camping and hiking. The lake features a beautiful campground with 122 campsites, many of which offer scenic views of the lake.
The park also offers several hiking trails, including the Lakeshore Trail, which winds along the lake’s shoreline and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding hills.
With its beautiful scenery and range of recreational activities, Wood Creek Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to London, Kentucky.
Camp Wildcat Battle Monument
The Camp Wildcat Battle Monument is a historical landmark located in Symbol, Kentucky, commemorates the Battle of Camp Wildcat, one of the first significant Civil War battles fought in the state.
The battle occurred on October 21, 1861, when Union forces under General Albin Schoepf engaged Confederate troops led by General Felix Zollicoffer in a fierce battle in the hills near Camp Wildcat.
The Union forces ultimately emerged victorious, marking a significant early victory for the Union in the Western Theater of the war.
The monument was erected in 1909 by the Kentucky Historical Society to commemorate the battle and honor the soldiers who fought and died there. The monument stands at the site of the battle and features a bronze plaque that tells the story of the battle and lists the names of the Union soldiers who were killed or wounded.
The site also features a reconstructed earthen fort used by the Union forces during the battle. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the tactics and strategy of the soldiers who fought there.
The Camp Wildcat Battle Monument is a valuable historical resource for anyone interested in the history of the Civil War and the role of Kentucky in the conflict.
The site is open to the public and provides a peaceful and reflective setting for visitors to learn about the sacrifices and bravery of the soldiers who fought there.
RockCastle River Trading Co and Riverside Gardens
The RockCastle River Trading Co and Riverside Gardens is a charming botanical garden in Livingston, Kentucky, that offers visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The gardens are situated on the banks of the Rockcastle River and feature a variety of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees, as well as a series of winding paths and trails that allow visitors to explore the gardens at their leisure.
One of the highlights of the RockCastle River Trading Co and Riverside Gardens is its collection of native Kentucky plants and flowers. The gardens feature a wide variety of wildflowers, including Black-Eyed Susans, Butterfly Milkweed, and Purple Coneflowers, as well as several species of trees and shrubs, such as Dogwoods, Redbuds, and Eastern Red Cedars.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of seasonal blooms, including azaleas, daffodils, and tulips, which provide a burst of color and fragrance throughout the year.
In addition to its beautiful gardens, the RockCastle River Trading Co and Riverside Gardens are also home to a charming gift shop and cafe, where visitors can browse various unique handmade gifts and souvenirs and enjoy a selection of fresh sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
With its beautiful setting, friendly staff, and range of attractions, the RockCastle River Trading Co and Riverside Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Livingston, Kentucky.