In a nutshell
- London has plenty of amazing viewpoints, from historic domes to sleek modern glass platforms.
- We highlight the best spots to see London from above – whether it’s with a ticket, from a free viewing platform, or combined with a meal at a restaurant with a view.
- We’ve visited all the main London viewing platforms ourselves. Our top picks are the London Eye, Sky Garden, and One New Change Rooftop Terrace.
- Planning your London trip? Check out our complete London guide for the best hotels in London with views, bars with a view in London, and restaurants with unforgettable panoramas.
Best Views in London at a Glance
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick overview of the best places to get a view of London from above:
| Location | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| London Eye | Lambeth | approx. £29 | Book a ticket |
| The Shard | Southwark | approx. £32 | Book a ticket |
| Tower Bridge Walkways | City of London/Southwark | approx. £16 | Book a ticket |
| St Paul's Cathedral | City of London | approx. £26 | Book a ticket |
| Sky Garden | City of London | free | Book a timeslot |
| Horizon 22 | City of London | free | Book a timeslot |
| Primrose Hill | Camden | free | free |
| One New Change | City of London | free | free |
| The Monument | City of London | approx. £6 | on site |
| Tate Modern | Southwark | free | free |
| Lift 109 | Battersea | approx. £17 | Book a ticket |
| Sky Garden's Fenchurch | City of London | minimum charge | Book a table |
| Duck & Waffle | City of London | minimum charge | Book a table |
| Oxo Tower | Southwark | minimum charge | Book a table |
| Wagtail | City of London | minimum charge | Book a table |
| The Swan | Southwark | minimum charge | Book a table |
Best Views in London on a Map
We’ve mapped out London’s viewing platforms, from iconic landmarks to rooftop bars with a view.
This way, you can see which spots fit perfectly into your sightseeing plan – and maybe one is right near your hotel in London?
Top Viewing Platforms in London
These 4 London viewing platforms are absolute must-sees. Make sure to visit at least one on your trip to London – even if you’re just for 3 days in London.
London Eye
- Suitable for: First-time visitors, families, photography fans
- Location: Lambeth
- Height: 135 meters
- Tickets: London Eye ticket online from £29
What you need to know: The London Eye is the famous Ferris wheel on the Thames. You’ll ride for around 30 minutes in enclosed cabins. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to skip long lines.
What can you see from there? A sweeping 360° view of the Thames, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, The Shard, and even St. Paul’s Cathedral on a clear day.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! It’s one of the best views in London for first-time visitors and kids alike. It’s not cheap, but the experience is unforgettable – and it’s a classic London photo moment.
Combine with: a boat trip on the Thames – the pier is just around the corner
Book London Eye tickets online
Read our London Eye experience here:
The Shard
- Suitable for: Photography fans, architecture fans, families, anyone who loves modern viewing platforms
- Location: Southwark
- Height: 310 meters (viewing platform at 244 meters)
- Tickets: The Shard ticket online from £32
What you need to know:The Shard is London’s tallest building, featuring a glass platform called “The View from The Shard” at 244 meters. The building also houses the luxury Shangri-La hotel with some of the best hotels in London with views.
What can you see from there? A jaw-dropping panorama over London, including Tower Bridge, Tower of London, the Thames, Canary Wharf, and on a clear day, as far as Windsor.
Is it worth it? Definitely. It’s a top spot for London from above, especially if you love modern architecture and viewing platforms.
Combine with: a visit to Borough Market – just a short walk away
Tower Bridge Walkways
- Suitable for: First-time visitors, families, history buffs, photography fans
- Location: City of London/Southwark
- Height: 42 meters
- Tickets: Tower Bridge Walkways ticket online from £16
What you need to know: Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Walk along its glass corridors 42 meters above the Thames and explore the exhibition inside the towers.
What can you see from there? Fantastic views of the Thames, passing ships, City Hall, and iconic landmarks like The Shard and the Tower of London.
Is it worth it? Definitely! It’s a fun and historic experience at a very reasonable price – perfect for those who want a view of London without going too high.
Combine with: a visit to the Tower of London right next door
Book your Tower Bridge Walkways ticket online
St. Paul's Cathedral London
- Suitable for: History lovers, culture enthusiasts, romantics
- Location: City of London
- Height: 85 meters (Golden Gallery)
- Tickets: St Paul’s Cathedral ticket online from £26
What you need to know: St. Paul’s Cathedral sits in one of London’s oldest neighborhoods. Explore the nave, historic crypt, mosaics, and three viewing platforms connected by 528 steps – ending at the Golden Gallery dome.
What can you see from there? A historic view over London rooftops, including the Thames, Somerset House, the Monument (a hidden gem), and Parliament Hill on the horizon.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! History buffs and London fans will love it. The cathedral itself is stunning, and the views of London from above are unforgettable – a true glimpse into historic London, even with the modern skyline around.
Connect with: the historic Fleet Street, Millennium Bridge, or Christchurch Greyfriars Church Garden (insider tip)
Book your St Paul’s Cathedral ticket online
Free Viewing Platforms in London
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy London from above. Here are our top tips for the best free views in London:
Sky Garden London
- Suitable for: Budget travelers, photography fans, families, first-time visitors
- Location: City of London
- Height: 155 meters
- Ticket: Book Sky Garden timeslot (1 month in advance)
What you need to know: Sky Garden is a public winter garden atop the Walkie Talkie building. The free viewing platform is surrounded by tropical plants, and there’s also a café-bar and a restaurant with a view.
What can you see from there? Panoramic views over the City of London, Tower of London, Thames, Tower Bridge, and other historic bridges.
Is it worth it? Definitely one of the best free viewpoints in London. The lush atmosphere makes it a relaxing spot to enjoy London from above, and it’s great for kids too.
Combine with: Tower Bridge and a detour to Victorian Leadenhall Market
Horizon 22
- Suitable for: Budget travelers, romantics
- Location: City of London
- Height: 254 meters
- Ticket: Book Horizon 22 timeslot (1 week in advance)
What you need to know: Horizon 22 is the highest free viewing platform in London, on the 58th floor of the 22 Bishopsgate tower in the financial district.
What can you see from there? A 360° view including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, and the London Eye to the west.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! If you love modern London viewing platforms and want to save money, this is a must. It’s still an insider tip in London, so be sure to reserve in advance.
Connect with: St. Paul’s Cathedral and the nearby Bank of England Museum
Primrose Hill
- Suitable for: History buffs, culture fans, romantics, nature lovers, families
- Location: North of Regent’s Park
- Height: 65 meters
- Ticket: free
What you need to know: Primrose Hill is one of London’s most loved outdoor viewpoints. Perfect for a picnic or a stroll, it’s especially popular at sunset.
What can you see from there? A sweeping, natural view of London’s skyline, including The Shard, the London Eye, and the BT Tower.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Ideal for a romantic outing or a day with kids who need space to play. It’s one of the best spots to enjoy London from above in a relaxed, green setting.
Combine with: a walk through Regent’s Park and exploring the Primrose Hill neighborhood with its cafés and bookshops.
Hidden Gems Viewing Platforms in London
Want to see London from a fresh perspective? These three hidden gems are still very central:
One New Change Rooftop Terrace London
- Suitable for: First-time visitors, budget travelers, history buffs
- Location: City of London
- Height: 25 meters
- Ticket: free
What you need to know: The One New Change Rooftop Terrace sits atop the One New Change shopping center near St. Paul’s Cathedral. The glass elevator takes you up for free, and the terrace is rarely crowded.
What can you see from there? Stunning views of St. Paul’s dome, so close it feels touchable, and a panoramic view of the City of London including The Shard.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! A hidden gem for photos and a great free viewpoint in London. Restaurants in the shopping center make it easy to grab a bite while enjoying the view.
Connect with: St. Paul’s Cathedral, historic Fleet Street, or Dr. Johnson’s House
The Monument London
- Suitable for: First-time visitors, budget travelers, history fans
- Location: City of London
- Height: 62 meters
- Ticket: approx. £6 on site
What you need to know: The Monument, a tall column near Tower Hill, commemorates the Great Fire of 1666. Climb 311 steps to reach the top.
What can you see from there? A 360° view over the City of London, including Tower Bridge, the Thames, The Shard, and the skyscrapers around the Bank of England.
Is it worth it? Definitely. A top insider tip for a historic viewpoint with hardly any tourists. It’s easy to fit into a sightseeing route.
Connect with: Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and St Dunstan-in-the-East (church ruins with garden)
Tate Modern Terrace London
- Suitable for: Art lovers, culture fans, modern architecture enthusiasts
- Location: Southwark
- Height: 65 meters
- Ticket: free
What you need to know: Tate Modern is a modern art museum on the Thames. Its Blavatnik Building terrace is open to the public, offering one of the best free views in London.
What can you see from there? Stunning panoramas of the London skyline including the Millennium Bridge, the Thames, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Is it worth it? Yes! Perfect for combining a museum visit with a scenic pause. No reservations needed, and a café on site makes it a relaxing stop.
Combine with: Tate Modern Museum, a play at Shakespeare’s Globe, or a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral
Lift 109 Battersea Power Station
- Suitable for: Architecture fans, London connoisseurs, families with teenagers
- Location: Battersea
- Height: 109 meters
- Ticket: Book Lift 109 ticket online from £17
What you need to know: Lift 109 is a futuristic glass elevator taking you to the top of a chimney at the redeveloped Battersea Power Station. It’s a unique combination of industrial history and modern design.
What can you see from there? Enjoy a 360° view over the Thames, Chelsea, Westminster, and on clear days, the City of London. The anteroom features light and sound installations for an added wow factor.
Is it worth it? Definitely, especially for those who like modern London viewing platforms away from the crowds. The experience feels both exclusive and immersive.
Combine with: Shopping or lunch at Battersea Power Station or a stroll through Battersea Park to Chelsea Bridge for a relaxed, local vibe.
Book your Lift 109 ticket online
Restaurants & Bars in London with a View
Here are some of the best restaurants and bars in London with great views:
Sky Garden's Fenchurch Restaurant
Sky Garden’s Fenchurch is the restaurant inside Sky Garden London, which we’ve already featured above.
Here you’ll find fine Caribbean-British dishes à la carte—think jerk salmon ceviche and BBQ wings. Main courses are around £40, or try a 9-course menu with cocktails for £65. Children are welcome.
While you dine, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Thames and London from above.
Book a table at Sky Garden’s Fenchurch
Duck & Waffle
Duck & Waffle sits on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower with panoramic views of the City skyline and the London Eye.
The menu serves British-inspired cuisine around the clock, from waffles and English breakfasts to meat, fish dishes, and desserts like cheesecake.
Main courses range from £15–£50, and children are welcome too, with fries or mac ‘n’ cheese available.
By the way: Duck & Waffle also has a location in Edinburgh. Worth visiting everywhere!
Oxo Tower Restaurant
Located on the 8th floor of the Oxo Tower on the South Bank, this restaurant offers indoor seating and an open terrace feel on sunny days.
Enjoy modern British dishes or afternoon tea while taking in views of the Thames, St. Paul’s, and the Millennium Bridge. Average prices range from £25–£40.
Book a table at the Oxo Tower Restaurant
Wagtail London
Wagtail is a stylish rooftop restaurant and bar in the heart of the City, right next to the Monument.
The terrace offers views of the Thames, Tower of London, and The Shard, paired with cocktails and modern British cuisine, including Sunday roasts.
Prices range from £10–£50, making it a great option for a memorable meal with a view of London from above.
Book a table at Wagtail London
The Swan
The Swan is a chic restaurant and bar lounge inside the Savoy Hotel, right on the River Thames and just a short walk from Shakespeare’s Globe.
From the window seats, you can enjoy views of the Thames, the South Bank skyline, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Somerset House.
The menu includes a variety of main courses, excellent afternoon tea, and a wide selection of drinks. Prices are very reasonable, ranging from £7 to £45, especially considering the stunning view of London.
Best Hotels in London with a View
If you want to stay in a hotel in London with a dream view, check out these top options:
Shangri-La The Shard: Luxury hotel in The Shard with panoramic views across London
Sea Containers London: Stylish hotel on the South Bank with stunning Thames views
Treehouse Hotel London: Playful boutique hotel near Oxford Circus with rooftop views over Westminster
FAQ about the Best Views in London
Which is the highest viewpoint in London?
The highest viewpoint in London is Horizon 22, which is located on the 58th floor of the 22 Bishopsgate skyscraper at a height of 254 meters and is accessible free of charge.
What free viewing platforms are there in London?
There are over 10 free viewpoints in London.
We think these 5 are particularly good:
- Sky Garden
- Horizon 22
- Primrose Hill
- One New Change Rooftop Terrace
- Tate Modern Terrace