Ever stared at the London skyline and felt you were missing the perfect angle? You’re not alone. The city is packed with spots that let you snap iconic shots without the crowds. Below you’ll find the most reliable places to see the city in its full glory, plus a few secret locations locals swear by.
The first stop for any visitor is the London Eye. From the riverbank, you can frame the Eye against the Thames and catch the sunset behind the South Bank. Arrive 15 minutes early, stand on the opposite side of the river, and use a wide‑angle lens to fit the whole wheel in one shot.
Just a short walk away, Tower Bridge offers a dramatic backdrop. The best view is from the north bank near the Tower of London, where you can capture the bridge’s bascules opening and the city lights behind it. Try shooting at blue hour – the sky’s deep blue makes the bridge lights pop.
Don’t forget Big Ben (the Elizabeth Tower). The classic view from Westminster Bridge is crowded, so head to the Jubilee Gardens walkway on the south side. A low angle will emphasize the clock’s height, and a tripod helps lock in the crisp detail when the clock strikes.
If you want to avoid the tourist rush, climb up to the Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street. Entry is free but you need to book a time slot online. From the highest public garden in the city, you get a 360‑degree panorama that includes the Shard, St. Paul’s, and the river.
Rooftop bars double as great photo spots. The Aqua Shard’s terrace provides a sleek, modern view of the Thames with a glass railing that adds depth to your shots. Arrive just before sunset for the golden hour, then stay for the city lights turning on.
For a quieter vibe, head to the Greenwich Park’s observatory hill. You’ll see the Royal Observatory dome, the O2 Arena, and the city spread out to the north. Early mornings are best; the park is almost empty, and the light is soft.
When you’re planning a photo walk, keep a few simple rules in mind: bring a small, lightweight tripod, use a polarizing filter to cut glare on the water, and check the weather forecast the night before. Cloudy days actually work well for landmarks like St. Paul’s because they soften shadows.
Finally, remember that the best viewpoint is the one that matches your style. Whether you love dramatic night shots, wide‑angle cityscapes, or quiet sunrise moments, London has a spot for you. Grab your camera, pick a location from this list, and start capturing the capital’s iconic skyline the way you’ve always wanted.
Searching for the best places to stargaze in London? This guide looks at six top scenic viewpoints tailored to the unique cityscape and the sometimes tricky London sky. Discover practical tips on dodging light pollution, local astronomy hubs, and hidden open spaces. You'll find real spots Londoners use—plus tips for planning your night out so you can actually see the stars. We’ve rounded it up so anyone in London can enjoy the magic of the night sky without needing to leave the city.