Top Ten Best Views In London
Get your camera ready because we've got the ultimate guide to the top spots with the best views in London!
There are so many ways for you to view and appreciate London, whether that be a panoramic bird’s eye view from a romantic restaurant or bar, a scenic hilltop, or from some of the best London attractions and landmarks. There’s a variety of options available to you, so whether you’re a photography enthusiast or you simply want to take casual snap happy photos to share with your friends and family on Instagram, we have put together a list of our favourite London hotspots.
Primrose Hill
Featuring in many romantic comedies, if you haven’t yet paid a visit it’s likely you’re already familiar with the iconic spot that looks down upon the city. Despite having to climb the hill to get to the prime spot, it is more than worth it when you can sit and enjoy the panoramic view of the London skyline. After a day of exploring the hustle and bustle of the city, grab some picnic food and make your way up to the top, the view is the perfect sunset backdrop. Insider tip: The London Zoo is right at the bottom of the hill just on the top corner of Regents Park, why not make a day of it while you’re in the area and stop off there with the family? It’s free for all London Pass holders.
Tower Bridge - The Glass Floor
Get a spectacular bird’s eye view of the bustling city below, capture London life from 42 meters above the River Thames by looking through the glass floor, if you’re lucky enough you may even get the chance to watch the bascules rise from beneath your feet! This is a unique perspective of the city and is a great opportunity to get some once in a lifetime photos. Insider Tip: London Pass holders can get fast track entry to the Tower Bridge Exhibition, time to get that VIP feeling.
Thames River Boat Cruise
A Thames River Cruise is a great way to witness London’s most famous riverside attractions and sights. Whether you decide to jump up on the top deck for an open-air experience, depending on the London weather of course, or head on down to the lower saloons where you’re encompassed by panoramic windows, you’ll be exposed to the best views of London. Have your cameras at the ready, as you’ll be meandering past some of the oldest and most impressive buildings and landmarks, such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Tate Modern, Houses of Parliament and much more. The London River Cruise is the best way to experience multiple views of the city from the relaxing comfort of the all-weather boats. Insider tip: With the London Pass you can enjoy the hop on hop off Thames River Boat Cruise for free.
King Henry’s Mound
Situated on the highest peak in Richmond Park is King Henry’s mound, not only is the park a London suburb that needs to be visited in its own right, but this little spot provides an uninterrupted view straight back into central London. The telescope acts as a porthole pointing directly at St Paul’s Cathedral, the view has been preserved with the help of a tree-framed sightline from the mound, framing the dome perfectly. The iconic view has been protected, so buildings aren’t allowed to obstruct it. Insider tip: Seeing as you’re in the area, why not have a short walk over to Kew Gardens, all London Pass holders can enter for free.
The Shard – The View from the Top
You can’t visit London and not experience London’s highest vantage point in the city, right? The Shard is one of London’s most premium attractions and newest landmarks, the view from the top enables you to see as far as 40 miles away. What better way to view the whole of the city in all its glory. Insider tip: Be sure to plan ahead, the best times to go are either early morning for sunset or later at sunrise. That way you’ll get some exceptionally stunning photos of the London skyline, the perfect way to make your friends and family that little bit more jealous that they aren’t there with you! Free entry to The View from The Shard for London Pass holders!
Emirates Air Line
Not only is the Emirates Air Line cable car a method of transport to get to and from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks, but it offers stunning views of the river Thames, an undisturbed view of the O2 Arena and surrounding areas as you glide steadily across the river... giving you enough time to get those selfies in of course. Please note: For the ultimate convenience factor you can use your Oyster card to pay for the trip. Insider tip: Seeing as you’re in the area why not use your London Pass and get into the Greenwich Royal Observatory for free.
Greenwich Park – The Point
If you’re looking for one of the best natural views of the city then the point in Greenwich is the place to head. The Royal Park provides naturally beautiful views across the curving river to the city, stunning greenery juxtaposed up against the cities architecture provides you with an endless array of photo opportunities.
London Eye
Come and visit the most iconic London attraction to not only witness the London skyline but to become a part of it. Jump into one of the pods and slowly become more and more exposed to the sights you know and love, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Shard, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace and much more. The giant Ferris wheel provides you with a recognizable view across London, the perfect backdrop to a romantic selfie or two.
Sky Garden
Submerse yourself in an exquisite makeshift garden that towers above the bustle of the city below, settle in and enjoy a spot of lunch or take advantage of the bar whilst you enjoy the London Skyline as the perfect backdrop. If you’re looking for a bar with a view in London then this isn’t one to miss.
Tate Modern Viewing Tower
The Tate Modern viewing level is a must-do when visiting London, not only for the art exhibitions and events, but at the top of the Blavatnik Building you’ll find an open-air terrace, boasting stunning views of the London Skyline. As you walk around the terrace you’ll be exposed to a 360-degree view looking directly over the Thames and the Millennium Bridge, on a clear day you can see as far as Canary Wharf and Wembley. The pièce de résistance is that you come face to face with St Paul’s Cathedral, with a clear, unobstructed view it is one of the best spots to snap London’s most iconic historical landmark. Insider tip: Fancy making the most out of your time at the Tate Modern? The London Pass offers a free audio guide for all London Pass holders.