A Bird’s-Eye Tour: The Best Views in London from Above

Updated On: April 21, 2024 by   Maha Yassin

Beginning a grand tour of London can be daunting, with many historic sights and viewpoints vying for your attention. We truly empathise, having once found ourselves in the same predicament, wondering where to start when absorbing those panoramic cityscape delights.

By the way, did you know that Sky Garden offers one such remarkable view entirely gratis? This humble blog aims to act as your compass through this maze of towering beauty that is our great capital.

Filled with an array of complimentary and premium viewpoints across the city, we’ll embark on an adventure together! Are you ready? Let’s dive headfirst into exploration!

Best Views in London That Are Free

London is a sprawling city with a unique and ever-changing skyline, and luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to soak it all in. Here are some of the best free views in London:

Greenwich Park

Address: Greenwich Park, London

Greenwich Park is a must-see spot. It gives you one of the best views in London for free! Stand on its high hill and see the whole city before you. You can see places like Canary Wharf, the Shard, and the London Eye from here.

The park itself has lots to do, too. Take a walk on pretty paths or grab a snack at the cafe. For history lovers, there’s the Royal Observatory, where time begins! You won’t want to miss this special place when looking for great views in London.

Primrose Hill

Address: London Borough of Camden, London

We love visiting Primrose Hill because it offers one of the best views in London. It’s incredibly stunning at sunset when the sky is painted with vibrant colours. From Primrose Hill, you can see famous landmarks such as the London Eye, the Shard, and the BT Tower.

It’s a perfect spot for backpackers like me who appreciate nature and want to capture memorable photos. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery make Primrose Hill a must-visit destination for travellers seeking iconic views of London’s heritage buildings.

Sky Garden

Address: 1, Sky Garden Walk, London

Sky Garden is a must-visit attraction in London. Located in the Walkie-Talkie building, the Sky Garden offers a truly breathtaking 360-degree panorama of London. Imagine gazing out across the cityscape, taking in the majestic Tower of London, the elegant spires of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the shimmering River Thames snaking its way through the city’s heart.

Lush indoor gardens bursting with tropical plants and trees create a sense of escape within the urban jungle, while open-air terraces provide the perfect vantage point to soak in the panoramic vistas. Whether indulging in a delicious meal at one of the Sky Garden’s restaurants, sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar, or simply marvelling at the vast urban landscape, this sky-high oasis promises an unforgettable experience.

Richmond Park Viewpoint

Address: Queen’s Rd, Richmond

Imagine standing atop King Henry’s Mound in Richmond Park, a 2,500-acre oasis in West London. Below you, the emerald expanse of the park unfolds, dotted with herds of majestic red deer and ancient trees that have witnessed generations come and go. This breathtaking view is a welcome escape from the city’s clamour.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a family picnicking on a sunny hillside, or a photographer chasing the perfect sunset shot, the Richmond Park Viewpoint has something for everyone. So make sure to visit and experience the magic for yourself – feel the wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, and the grandeur of nature filling your soul.

Parliament Hill

Address: Heath Lodge, London

Parliament Hill is the highest point in London. From the leafy expanse of Regent’s Park to the iconic Houses of Parliament, from the bustling streets of Bloomsbury to the distant hills of Surrey, the panorama stretches as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you can see as far as Windsor Castle!

Whether you’re an avid walker seeking quiet contemplation, a kite-flyer chasing the wind, or simply a city dweller yearning for a moment of green serenity, Parliament Hill offers a panoramic escape that will leave you feeling refreshed and exhilarated.

James’s Park Bridge

Address: St James’s Park, Marlborough Rd, London

St. James’s Park Bridge is a charming spot that offers a lovely view of London. Walking across the bridge, you can admire the picturesque St. James’s Park and its vibrant greenery.

From here, you’ll also catch sight of some iconic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace and the impressive Horse Guards Parade. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make this bridge a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique perspective of London’s beauty.

Blavatnik Building at the Tate Modern

Address: Hopton St, London

The Blavatnik Building at the Tate Modern is a must-visit for anyone seeking breathtaking views of London. The building’s terrace provides an incredible vantage point to admire the cityscape and famous landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames.

Whether you’re enjoying the stunning sunset or taking in the twinkling lights of London at night, the views from the Blavatnik Building are truly unforgettable.

Best Views in London If You’re Willing to Pay

London’s skyline is a spectacle; sometimes, you must go above and beyond to appreciate its grandeur truly. While free viewpoints abound, London offers some genuinely stunning paid experiences that let you soak in the city from unique angles and dizzying heights. Here are a few of the best:

The London Eye

Address: Riverside Building, County Hall, London

Tickets: £25.50 for the standard ticket

A classic London experience, the London Eye isn’t just a giant Ferris wheel; it’s a slow-moving observation deck offering 360-degree views as you gently rotate above the city. As you ascend to the top in one of its glass capsules, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of landmarks such as the Shard, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge.

The experience is especially magical during sunset when the cityscape transforms into a mesmerising display of colours. Whether capturing Instagram-worthy photos or simply taking in the beauty around you, the London Eye provides an unforgettable vantage point from which to admire this magnificent city from above.

The Shard

Address: 32 London Bridge St, London

Tickets: £25 for groups

Soaring 95 floors above the city, The Shard’s viewing platforms offer unrivalled 360-degree panoramas. Witness the River Thames snaking through the urban landscape, iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace microscopically detailed, and the distant hills fading into the horizon.

Two viewing platforms – one at Level 69 and another at Level 72 – provide different perspectives, while interactive exhibits and augmented reality experiences add an extra layer of wonder. It is a worthwhile splurge for one of the most unforgettable views in London.

Tower Bridge

Address: Tower Bridge Rd, London

Tickets: £12.30 for adults and £6.20 for children

Step back in time and onto the iconic Tower Bridge, a symbol of London itself. The exhibition explores the bridge’s fascinating history and construction, while the glass walkways offer breathtaking views of the River Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and the City of London.

With its unique design and breathtaking architecture, Tower Bridge provides a perfect backdrop for capturing memorable photos. For extra adrenaline, venture onto the glass floor, peering down at the bustling traffic below.

The O2

Address: Peninsula Square, London

Tickets: £35 on weekdays and £40 on weekends

Climb the roof of the iconic O2 arena for a truly unique perspective of London. This exhilarating experience takes you along a walkway tilted at a 25-degree angle, offering panoramic views of Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and the city skyline.

The city’s twinkling lights create a magical spectacle as the sun sets. For thrill-seekers, the “Walk the Line” challenge adds an extra dose of excitement, with participants leaning back and walking along the walkway with nothing but the Thames below. This one is for the adrenaline seekers and the adventurous!

ArcelorMittal Orbit

Address: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton St, London

Tickets: £16.50 for adults and £10 for children

This twisting, red sculpture in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park isn’t just a quirky landmark; it’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure with one of the most incredible views in London. Ascend the world’s longest tunnel slide, offering a thrilling descent with glimpses of the Olympic Park and beyond. Or, brave The Slide, a steeper and faster option with loops and corkscrews.

For those seeking a gentler option, The Platform at the top offers 360-degree views of the city and Olympic Park, showcasing the legacy of the 2012 Games. Prices start at £16.50 for adults, making it a budget-friendly choice for panoramic thrills.

Take a Boat Cruise on the Thames

It might not be a high vantage point, but we highly recommend boat cruising the Thames River to get some of the most breathtaking views in London.

As you sail along the river, you can admire iconic landmarks such as the Shard, Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge from a unique perspective. These famous sights offer impressive views that can’t be missed.

Whether you choose a sightseeing tour or a dinner cruise with delicious food onboard, this boat cruise will provide you with unforgettable panoramic views of London’s skyline.

Best Bars, Restaurants & Hotels Rooftop Views in London

Sometimes, you might want to pair the stunning views with an equally delicious meal or a drink with friends. London has several rooftop establishments to strike our fancy when this mood strikes. From bars to fancy restaurants to hotels, London’s panoramic view is just a lift ride away.

Radio Rooftop

Address: 336-337 Strand, London

Picture a chic, modern space buzzing with energy, DJs spinning tunes, and panoramic views of Covent Garden stretching out like a vibrant tapestry. That’s Radio Rooftop. Sip on innovative cocktails crafted with unique flavours, nibble on delicious sharing plates, and let the cool, urban vibe wash over you. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Radio Rooftop promises an unforgettable evening with a soundtrack of good times and one of the best views in London.

Sabine

Address: 10 Godliman St, London

Elegance and sophistication meet breathtaking views at Sabine. Nestled within the NoMad Hotel, this rooftop haven offers indoor and outdoor seating, with St. Paul’s Cathedral dominating the panorama. Candlelight flickers create a romantic ambience while the seasonal small plates and creative cocktails tantalise your taste buds. Sabine is the perfect spot for a sophisticated rendezvous, a stylish escape from the city’s clamour, or simply a delightful culinary experience with one of the best views in London.

Bar Elba

Address: 111 Waterloo Rd, London

Escape the city clamour and enter a secret garden oasis at Bar Elba. Nestled within the Rooftop Gardens in Kensington, this charming spot offers a sanctuary of greenery and breathtaking views of the West London skyline. Sip on cocktails infused with fresh herbs grown right on the roof, savour delicious small plates, and let the gentle melodies of live music serenade you under the twinkling city lights.

Savage Garden

Address: Floor 12, 7 Pepys St, London

Witness the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London bathed in the golden hues of dusk at Savage Garden. This chic cocktail lounge boasts a spacious terrace overlooking the Thames, offering a front-row seat to the city’s historical heart. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails inspired by the urban landscape, indulge in sharing plates with a touch of Mediterranean flair, and lose yourself in the vibrant buzz of this rooftop haven.

Jin Bo Law Skybar

Address: Hotel Saint, 14th floor, 9 Aldgate High St, London

Ascend to new heights at Jin Bo Law Skybar, perched on the 14th floor of the Dorsett City Hotel. This chic lounge offers sweeping views of the City of London and beyond, with iconic landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Gherkin visible in all their grandeur. Enjoy expertly mixed cocktails crafted with premium spirits, savour refined small plates with Asian influences, and feel the city’s pulse from this sophisticated vantage point.

In conclusion, London offers many breathtaking views for every type of traveller. Whether you’re exploring the city’s royal parks, enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar, or admiring the iconic landmarks from public viewing platforms, there is no shortage of stunning vistas. So pack your camera and get ready to be amazed by London’s panoramic skyline views.

FAQs