Our capital is full of stunning views, so we’ve put today a list of some of the best views in London, including rooftop views, sunset spots and more.
Centuries old, with some of the best architecture in the world, you’ll also find stunning new buildings shooting into the skyline, leafy parks the meandering river and some of the most famous landmarks on the globe.
There are even a free places from which you can catch views of London. If you’re a tourist or visitor to the city, we have laid out some of the top places to see the best views in London.
Best view #1 (in our opinion!): The Shard
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The Shard arguably offers some of the best views in London. Tickets are from £25 for midweek experience and you can even get a cocktail thrown into the price.
Located on the bustling London Bridge Street just south of the River Thames, sits the tallest building in the EU.
The Shard is one of the newest additions to London’s skyline but has quickly become a tourist hotspot.
Catch sights including The River Thames, Big Ben, Tower of London, Shakespeare Globe Theatre, The London Eye and Tower Bridge from up there.
Best View #2: Primrose Hill
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If you’re a student in Camden or you’re visiting one there, you might well be on a budget, so a visit to Primrose Hill is a great option.
From the top of Primrose Hill, you’ll be treated to some amazing views out over the City of London.
This beautiful green space is loved by both Londoners and visitors, who retreat into the green space to get away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.
One of the highlights of Primrose Hill is the stunning houses around it, especially at Chalcot Crescent and Chalcot Square. With their pastel colours and traditional charm, they’re so pretty and quaint. Among those that have lived in Chalcot Square are the author Sylvia Plath and poet William Butler Yeats.
Looking to study in Camden? Why not book at The Stay Club Camden and enjoy this view all semester long.
Best Rooftop Views in London
London has some absolutely breath-taking views from the rooftops. If you fancy a drink to help you quench your skyline thirst, there are some incredible bars from which you can take in the sights.
Best Rooftop View #1: Sky Garden
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The Fenchurch rooftop restaurant and the Darwin Brasserie at Sky Garden boast some of the best meals with a view of the skyline in London.
A glass of fizz in the Sky Pod bar is always a good choice. It’s right in the heart of the City, with some of London’s most impressive buildings in close proximity including a view of the Shard across the river.
There are seasonal events here too – their Halloween, Christmas and New Year parties are always good fun.
Find it at 20 Fenchurch St, EC3M 8AF with info at skygarden.london
Best Rooftop View #2: Franks Café
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Franks Café in Peckham is a rooftop bar which doesn’t do glamour. It has an endearingly basic set-up so it’s a hit with the young at heart, with long wooden seats, the city’s most recognisable landmarks are all spread out on the horizon, with plenty of trees and greenery to break up the view nearby.
Find it at Bold Tendencies, 7th-10th Floor Multi Storey Car Park, 95A Rye Lane, SE15 4ST with info at boldtendencies.com
If you are looking for somewhere to stay in London while you take in these bars and eateries or want to find more great places to eat and drink in Camden. Check out our best bars and pubs in camden blog.
Best Views in London at night
London at night looks very different yet again! The city of London by night is just as, if not more beautiful than it is in the daytime. When the sun goes down, the city lights up and many of London’s most famous landmarks are showcased across the city skyline.
Best Views in London at night #1: Tower Bridge
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Tower Bridge look glorious at night-time and looks even more beautiful when pictured with David Wynne’s ‘Girl with Dolphin’ statue.
Best Views in London at night #2: The Millenium Bridge
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The bridge leading up to St Paul’s Cathedral, The Millennium Bridge, is a pedestrian bridge that looks stunning when lit up at night-time.
Best Sunset Spots in London
London can be tres romantic when the sun goes down. Whether you have a sundowner in hand or are taking in a picnic.
From most of the places highlighted you can enjoy a lovely sunset view. But here are some where the skyline will really be set alight.
Best Sunset Spots in London #1: The London Eye
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Soar high above the city and enjoy 360-degree sunset views from one of the London Eye’s 32 capsules. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as Windsor Castle.
Best Sunset Spots in London #2: Little Venice
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Take a stroll along Little Venice and watch the sun go down over the picture-pretty houseboats, which line the peaceful canal area in west London.
Best Free Views in London
Here’s the best bit. There are some fantastic places from which you can enjoy views of London for FREE!
To make it even more budget friendly, you can walk or cycle to many of these viewing spots making them even friendlier on the wallet.
Best Free Views in London #1: Primrose Hill
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Primrose Hill, on the north side of Regents Park offers some of the most iconic views over London and what’s more – you can grab a picnic there! Winner!
Best Free Views in London #2: Greenwich Park
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To get a different perspective of London, why not head to the top of Greenwich Park which is renowned for offering some of the best views in London.
From up here, you can take in a different perspective to the viewpoints in central London.
You’ll be able to see leafy Greenwich itself, including the stunning buildings of the Queen’s House and the Old Royal Naval College including a sneaky peek of the Thames.
Are you a student moving to London? Make sure you plan ahead for your studies and secure your student accommodation in London with us today.
