For all its energy, creativity and culture, London captured through the best vistas is really a sight to behold...
They say it’s only when you look from above where you can experience great things. This couldn’t be more true of our great Capital. For all its energy, creativity and culture, London captured through the best vistas and panoramic spots is really a sight to behold.
Here’s a guide on the best places to view London from above:
Parliament Hill summit
Parliament Hill Hampstead Heath London NW5 1QR
Possibly North London’s finest viewpoint. Nestled between Highgate, Parliament Hill and Hampstead Heath lies the Parliament Hill summit. The history of this spot, though contested, had a favourable story of it being where Guy Fawkes and gang gathered to (attempt to) watch the houses of parliament blow up and though the deed never followed through, the name aptly remained.
On a clear day, you can see London’s finest landmarks including St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard and the London Eye. It’s a truly stunning location and if you walk up on a sunny Sunday afternoon, you’ll be accompanied by dogs of all types, doesn’t get any better than that!
Telegraph Hill
Kitto Rd, London SE14 5TN, United Kingdom
Probably the closest big hill to Central London. Telegraph Hill Park is small in comparison to its North London neighbour but it’s still an aesthetic location to feast your eyes on the grandeur of the city. The park usually brings in a young cultured audience and the views stretch all the way to Wembley Stadium. A South London hidden gem for sure.
Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY, UK
‘The People’s Palace’ is a multi-functional cultural venue in Alexandra Park, North London. Situated on top of a hill, it offers the best panoramic views of London. Again, the palace is well worth a visit of a lazy afternoon. With music events, an ice rink and even a pitch and putt course, this place is a great space for families and a unique selling point to living within walking distance.
Sky Garden
1, Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF, UK
London's Sky Garden offers a botanical oasis amidst the urban sprawl, providing a lush escape where concrete meets greenery. Picture yourself sipping a cocktail while soaking in 360-degree views of the city's iconic skyline, surrounded by exquisitely landscaped gardens that are as vibrant as the city below. Designed by the renowned landscape architecture firm Gillespies, this verdant haven boasts a medley of Mediterranean and South African flora, ensuring a burst of color and fragrance year-round. From the striking African Lily to the fiery Red Hot Poker, every plant is meticulously chosen to complement the space, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
One Tree Hill
Lovers Walk, London SE10 1AY
Between Forest Hill and Brockley, One Tree Hill offers a view so breathtaking it might just outshine a certain glossy teen drama. Fun fact: you're perched atop Europe's largest underground reservoir, with remnants of a WWI anti-aircraft gun emplacement nearby, adding a dash of historical intrigue to the panoramic vista. This spot was the preferred haunt of 18th and 19th-century visitors, and it's not hard to see why. As you soak it all in, it feels like stumbling upon a real-life trompe l’oeil, where every skyscraper and landmark is meticulously framed by nature's brushstrokes. From theShard to the majestic St. Paul's Cathedral, One Tree Hill serves up London's skyline with a side of charm, making it a top contender for the city's best viewpoint.
King Henry's Mound
Queen's Rd, Richmond TW10 5HX
King Henry's Mound, a relic with more history than your average Tudor drama. Originally a Bronze Age burial chamber, this spot has seen its fair share of action, serving as a lookout for hunting and falconry enthusiasts, with even King Henry VII himself allegedly striking a pose here. Today, it's not just deer that roam these grounds but also panoramic views that stretch from the tranquil Thames Valley to the majestic silhouette of St. Paul's Cathedral in the east. Legend has it that Henry VIII anxiously scanned the horizon from this very spot, awaiting news of Anne Boleyn's fate, though the historical accuracy might be as dubious as Tudor court politics.
The London Eye
Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB
An obvious choice, but nonetheless, spectacular. The London Eye is the OG when it comes to views of the city. Perched at a vertigo-inducing 135 meters, this colossal cantilevered observation wheel offers a panorama that's worth every penny of its popularity. Pro-tip: stake your claim near a window pronto to avoid jostling for views with fellow pod-dwellers. Designed by the ingenious minds at Marks Barfield Architects and launched into the London skyline in 2000, the Eye has racked up more awards than a seasoned actor, cementing its status as the UK's ultimate paid-for visitor magnet. As it celebrated its 20th birthday in 2020, the Eye remains as eye-conic as ever, inviting you to delve into its captivating story at the Ticket Hall exhibit for a peek behind the scenes.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, UK
Sure, you may have admired this majestic structure from the riverside, but have you truly conquered it from the top? Step into the shoes of the unsung heroes who've kept this iconic landmark ticking, as you uncover their tales amidst the Victorian splendor of the Engine Rooms, a hidden gem tucked away within the bridge's bowels. Whether you choose to splurge a few quid or sweet-talk your MP for a freebie, the experience of standing atop Tower Bridge is worth every penny, especially when you factor in the chance to delve into London's rich heritage at the Tower exhibition. Tickets start from £12.30 with children under 5 entering for free.
IFS Cloud Cable Car
27 Western Gateway, London E16 1FA
Float above the Thames in style aboard the IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line Cable Car), offering a sky-high adventure from Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks. It's not just a mode of transport; it's a ticket to unparalleled views of London's iconic skyline. Sure, it'll cost you a few quid, but with prices as cheap as chips for Oyster cardholders, it's practically a steal compared to other wallet-busting attractions. So, swipe your Oyster card, settle into your seat, and enjoy a leisurely 20-minute journey through the clouds. Ofr more information, click here.
Up At The O2
Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX
Strap on your climbing gear, channel your inner explorer, and ascend to dizzying heights over the world-famous roof of The O2. With your trusty climb guide by your side, prepare to soak in jaw-dropping panoramic views of historic Greenwich, the sprawling Olympic Park, and the glitzy skyline of Canary Wharf. Whether you're a thrill-seeker seeking an outdoor challenge or simply looking to marvel at London from a whole new perspective, Up At The O2 promises an experience that's as exhilarating as it is unforgettable. And hey, if you're feeling particularly adventurous, why not join in on one of the special events, from yoga sessions to guest talks, adding an extra layer of excitement to your sky-high escapade.