Best Places to See the City Skyline in London, United Kingdom
1. The Shard
Tallest building in London with an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and River Thames.
- Height Advantage: Provides unobstructed views of the entire city
- Day/Night Views: Can be visited during both day and night for different perspectives
- Restaurant & Bar: Offers dining options to enjoy the view while eating
2. Tate Modern Roof Terrace
Modern art museum with a rooftop terrace offering views of St. Paul's Cathedral and the City.
- Art & Skyline: Combines modern art appreciation with city skyline views
- Free Access: The rooftop terrace is free to access (museum admission may apply)
- Unique Perspective: Offers a unique view of St. Paul's Cathedral
3. Greenwich Park Observatory Hill
Historic Royal Observatory with views of the city skyline and Canary Wharf from its hilltop location.
- Maritime Greenwich: Located in Maritime Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Canary Wharf Views: Provides views of the iconic Canary Wharf skyline
- Historic Significance: Home to the Prime Meridian Line and historic buildings
4. Emirates Air Line Cable Car
Cable car connecting North Greenwich and the Royal Docks, offering views of the city skyline and O2 Arena.
- Aerial Views: Provides a unique aerial view of the city
- O2 Arena & River Thames: Offers views of the O2 Arena and River Thames
- Experience: A unique way to travel across the city
5. St. Paul's Cathedral Dome
Iconic cathedral with a dome offering views of the city skyline and the Millennium Bridge.
- Iconic Architecture: Experience the iconic architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral
- City & River Views: Offers views of the city and River Thames
- Historic Significance: Visit a historic landmark with a rich history
6. Tower Bridge Walkways
Iconic bridge with walkways open to the public, offering views of the city skyline and River Thames.
- Iconic Architecture: Experience the iconic architecture of Tower Bridge
- City & River Views: Offers views of the city and River Thames
- Historic Significance: Visit a historic landmark with a rich history
7. Arsenal Emirates Stadium
Football stadium with high-level views of the city skyline during a match or tour.
- Sports & Skyline: Combines football and city skyline views
- Match or Tour: Views can be enjoyed during a match or stadium tour
- Iconic Stadium: Visit one of the most iconic football stadiums in Europe
8. Alexandra Palace
Historic palace with views of the city skyline and London's reservoirs from its hilltop location.
- Historic Significance: Visit a historic landmark with a rich history
- City & Reservoir Views: Offers views of the city and London's reservoirs
- Events & Activities: Hosts events, concerts, and activities throughout the year
9. Canary Wharf Crossrail Place Roof Garden
Rooftop garden at Canary Wharf station offering views of the city skyline and the Thames.
- Urban Oasis: A peaceful urban oasis in the heart of Canary Wharf
- City & River Views: Offers views of the city and River Thames
- Free Access: The rooftop garden is free to access (some events may require a ticket)
10. Sky Garden
Three-story glass garden in the 'Walkie Talkie' building with panoramic views of the city skyline.
- Urban Jungle: Experience a tropical urban jungle amidst the city skyline
- Day/Night Views: Can be visited during both day and night for different perspectives
- Restaurant & Bar: Offers dining options to enjoy the view while eating
11. Thames River Cruise
Boat tour along the River Thames offering views of the city skyline and landmarks.
- Water Views: Experience the beauty of the River Thames
- City Landmarks: Pass by iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and St. Paul's Cathedral
- Flexibility: Variety of cruise options available, from short to long journeys
12. Millennium Bridge
Pedestrian bridge connecting the City and Southwark with views of St. Paul's Cathedral and the city skyline.
- Iconic Architecture: Experience the iconic architecture of Millennium Bridge
- City & River Views: Offers views of the city and River Thames
- Historic Significance: Visit a historic landmark with a rich history
13. The View from the Shard at Twilight
Observation deck at The Shard during twilight hours offering views of a lit-up city skyline.
- Night Skyline: Experience the beauty of a lit-up city skyline
- Day/Night Comparison: Compare day and night views during the same visit
- Dining Experience: Combine a dining experience with breathtaking city skyline views
14. Emirates Air Line Cable Car at Night
Cable car connecting North Greenwich and the Royal Docks at night offering views of a lit-up city skyline.
- Night Skyline: Experience the beauty of a lit-up city skyline
- O2 Arena & River Thames: Offers views of the O2 Arena and River Thames at night
- Unique Experience: A unique way to travel across the city at night
15. London Eye at Night
Ferris wheel with capsules offering views of a lit-up city skyline during the evening.
- Night Skyline: Experience the beauty of a lit-up city skyline
- City Landmarks: Pass by iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
- Romantic Experience: Ideal for a romantic evening out with views of the city skyline