The City is home to some amazing viewpoints where you can take in all of its famous landmarks and stunning architecture. While the spots that spring to mind first, like the Shard and the London Eye, will always guarantee incredible views, we have put together a few alternative suggestions for viewpoints that do the City justice.
The Monument
If you like your views served with some extra history, and if you don’t mind the steps, the Monument to the Great Fire of London should be high on your list of places to view the City.
From Monument, London Bridge or Bank station, you can head over to the Monument, London’s oldest ticketed attraction, to begin your ascent. Inside the 202ft tower are 311 spiral steps to the top. Once you have climbed the staircase, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views, as well as a certificate for your monumental achievement!
Fish St. Hill EC3R 8AH
Homepage | The Monument
The Walkways at Tower Bridge
Another spot to set your sights on is one that you might see all the time from the outside, but never have explored inside. The high-level walkways inside Tower Bridge, which connect the North and South Towers, provide picture-perfect views of the City from a vantage point like no other – 42 metres above the Thames! Be sure to take a look around both the East and West walkways to spot the landmarks on both sides. If you’re feeling daring, check out the glass floors which look down to the road level and the river below to see City life right beneath your feet.
Tower Bridge Rd SE1 2UP
Homepage | Tower Bridge
Madison at One New Change
Perched on the top floor at One New Change, you’ll find Madison, a stylish bar and restaurant, with panoramic views of the City skyline. Overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral, at Madison you’re in prime position to see the best of the City, while sipping a delicious cocktail or indulging in something from their New York inspired food menu. Why not make an afternoon of it by checking out one of their live music events. Madison Unplugged is the perfect way to spend a cosy Sunday, with a spectacular view. You can head to the roof terrace to enjoy an acoustic set from 3pm-6pm, provided by a different artist each week, while you take in the penthouse views.
One New Change, St Paul’s EC4M 9AF
Restaurant St Pauls – Madison | D&D London (madisonlondon.net)
Level 10 at the Tate Modern
The Tate modern doesn’t just deliver when it comes to its incredible collection of modern art. The Tate also offers visitors a room with a view. If you make your way to Level 10, you’ll reach the gallery’s highest platform, home to a viewing area which opens up the City skyline from the banks of the River Thames. From here, you can head to the Level 10 café to grab a drink and a bite to eat while you watch the world go by.
Bankside SE1 9TG
Tate Modern | Tate
Sky Garden
For a view from the treetops, head to the top floor of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ where you can discover a hidden oasis looking out over the City. At the Sky Garden, you can wander through lush greenery and flowering plants, designed to flourish all year round. Taking the top spot as London’s highest public garden, Sky Garden provides 360 degree views of the City skyline from a viewpoint that offers calm and respite from the hustle and bustle. Access to the Sky Garden is free and tickets must be booked in advance due to limited spaces!
1 Sky Garden Walk EC3M 8AF
Sky Garden – London’s Highest Public Garden
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