Where to Find the Best Views in London
With its grand Victorian architecture, famous landmarks, and futuristic skyscrapers, London looks impressive from all angles—but some of the city's viewspoints are a cut above the rest. Here's where to find the best views of London and its icons.
Helicopter rides
Enjoy a true bird's-eye view.
Take to the skies for a helicopter flight over London and enjoy the ultimate panoramic view of the capital. Fly over Buckingham Palace, the Thames River, and central London to spot landmarks such as Big Ben, The Shard, and Wembley Stadium from above. Flights typically take off from Battersea and last between 10 and 20 minutes.
London Sightseeing Flight for 2 with Champagne
The View from The Shard
The country's tallest skyscraper (for now).
Slicing through the air like a gigantic "shard" of glass, Renzo Piano's architectural masterpiece is also London's tallest building, measuring a dizzying 1,016 feet (310 meters) high. Visit The Shard by day to gaze out over the city from the open-air viewing platform, or opt for a nighttime visit to see London illuminated.
The Shard Viewing Gallery & Westminster Walking Tour
St. Paul's Cathedral
Visit the viewing gallery.
One of London's principal landmarks, St. Paul's Cathedral is sure to grace your London itinerary, but make sure you take the 250-step climb up into the viewing galleries of the iconic dome. The final ascent to the outdoor viewing deck of the Golden Gallery affords a great bird's-eye view of the Houses of Parliament and the Thames River.
St Paul's Cathedral Admission Ticket
Thames River
Cruisin' for views.
Running right through the heart of central London, the Thames River is lined with iconic landmarks. Set sail on a sightseeing cruise and enjoy a prime view of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, London Bridge, the Tower of London, the London Eye, and more. Soak up the atmosphere on a sunset or night cruise, or turn up the romance with dinner, Champagne, or afternoon tea on board.
London Eye
Wheely great views.
Europe's biggest Ferris wheel and one of the London's most recognizable landmarks, the London Eye guarantees a great view. It's also the capital's most visited tourist attraction, so prebook fast-track tickets, or treat yourself to a private capsule and a Champagne toast.
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Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.