Best Buildings and Architecture in London

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Ciaran Connolly

London is a world-class city that offers tourist so much to see and do that you’ll never be bored. While in London we discover some impressive buildings and architecture that really adds history and character to this city. We have walked through the streets of London and wanted to share the amazing buildings we came across. So keep reading to see which famous building made it on our list…

10. Westminster Abbey

At number ten on our list of the best buildings and architecture in London is the historic Westminster Abbey. It’s one of the Uk’s most notable religious buildings. It’s also the traditional place of coronation and burial site for British Monarchs. In addition to the history that this building carries as a church and thus attracts tourists to it. It’s also a place of magnificent architecture that will bring visitors to the place and let them wander around.

9. Royal Albert Hall

Next on our list is the Royal Albert Hall which is located on the northern edge of South Kensington in London. The hall has seen many world famous musicians performing here since its opening in 1871. This is a grade A listed building and the design is unique both outside and inside the building. It’s built in Italianate style architecture which was popular during the 19th century in Britain. Also famous for its dome that is a freestanding structure made of iron and glass. It’s visually very impressive and this iconic building also holds lots of history that is worth visiting.

8. Royal Courts of Justice

Following the Royal Albert Hall is The Royal Courts of Justice which is known as the ‘Law Courts.’ It also houses the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales. The Royal Court of Justice was firstly designed by George Edmund Street but he actually died before it was completed. This building is a large grey stone edifice in the Victorian Gothic style that was built in the 1870’s. The building was eventually opened by Queen Victoria in 1882.

7. National Theatre

Number seven on our list of the best buildings and architecture in London is The National Theatre. This building is one of the United Kingdom’s three most prominent publicly funded performing arts venues. The national theatre houses three separate theatres inside, plus a temporary one that was added in April 2013 and closed once again in May 2016.

6. Buckingham Palace

Next on our list is the famous Buckingham palace that most people with have heard of due to its association with the royal family of England. The palace was built back in 1703 and it is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. The building or even the fountain in front of it will never miss attracting tourists to come and check this beautiful kind of architecture out.

5. St. Pauls Cathedral

We can’t make a list of the best buildings and architecture in London without mentioning the beautiful St. Paul’s cathedral. If you are looking for different sites to visit the history of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of them. It also happens to be one of the top attractions when it comes to architecture. It is an Anglican Cathedral that dates back to the 17th century. That was designed in the English Baroque style by Sir Christopher Wren and you should check it out.

4. Supreme Court

At number four we have the Supreme Court which is located in the city of Westminster, London. It’s the court of last resort and the highest appellate court in the United Kingdom. The Supreme Court was designed in Gothic style by Scottish architect James Gibson and is located opposite the House of Parliament. The building is rooted in history and is a good example of contemporary construction techniques.

3. Houses Of Parliament 

Another impressive building that we briefly mentioned above is the Houses of Parliament. The Houses of Parliament is also known as the ‘Palace of Westminster’ which is located on the left bank of River Thames. The building was built for Edward the Confessor in the 11th century and was enlarged by William I (the conqueror). It is a beautiful building that standouts in the London landscape, you couldn’t miss it.

2. Sky Gardens

Number two on our list of the bests building and architecture in London is the stunning sky gardens. This is one of the most modern buildings found in the city. Also, its one of the highest public gardens to be found in the United Kingdom. The building offers impressive 360 panoramic views over the city. The glass building from the outside gives it a different modern look. We highly recommend visiting the Sky Garden, whether it be for its articheture or just because its a great place to spend some time.

1. Tower Bridge

Finally, we have reached the number one spot in the best buildings and architecture in London and we have picked Tower Bridge. Of course, bridges are not always the top attractions on the list, but in London, the Tower Bridge is a must-see for the architectural views that one will be exposed to. It’s a combined bascule and suspension bridge that was built between 1886 and 1894. It’s a beautiful bridge that holds an iconic part of London and we suggest checking it when you can.

What did you think of the best buildings and architecture in London? Do you have a favourite? Share your thoughts with us! 🙂

Also here are some other blogs related to London that may interest you; Top 10 Things to do in London This Summer, Top 10 Things to do in London For Kids, Top 10 Amazing Places to Walk in London, Best Things to do in London at Night, Top Free Things to do in London,Unusual and Uncommon Things to do in London.

More London blogs; Royal Courts of Justice, Sky Gardens, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Royal Albert Hall, Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace.