Tips
30th April 2025

Iconic City Views in London

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Ah, London. The city that’s gifted us tea-loving Samuel Pepys, temporary Welsh resident Dylan Thomas (side note: he’d definitely choose Primrose Hill for a poetic meltdown), and probably one or two others who’ve likely stopped mid-step to admire the skyline.

Regardless whether you’re a born-and-bred Londoner, a tourist hunting for ‘authentic’ fish and chips (we’ve all been there), or someone caught between postcode loyalties, London offers countless spots to soak in its sprawling beauty.

So grab my (always clammy, apologies in advance) hand and let’s digitally stroll through the city’s most iconic views together.

1. The Shard: London’s Tallest Peeping Tom

london-view-from-Shard

Because why not start with the big one?

Standing at 310 meters tall, The Shard is what happens a glittering spear and a skyline have an architectural love child out of wedlock (oh, the taboo). The name itself actually came from a Guardian review calling it a ‘shard of glass,’ proving once and for all that critics should be allowed to name babies and pets.

The viewing platform offers a 360-degree panorama that’ll have you thinking, ‘Oh wow, London’s kind of big actually.’ On a clear day (so, statistically speaking, never), you can see up to 40 miles—perfect for spotting landmarks and quietly judging rooftops.

2. Sky Garden: London’s Highest Public Garden

London City Views from Sky Garden

Perched atop the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building (fun fact: it might have melted a car once) at 20 Fenchurch Street, Sky Garden is what happens when architects decide that glass and plants put together would have really beautiful babies.

With lush greenery and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, it feels a little like strolling through a rainforest Apple Store filled with dramatic Londoners pretending to know their ferns from their philodendrons.

And yes, you can get married here (though no one’s confirmed whether that includes marrying a plant).

3. Primrose Hill: Royals, Rebels and Rom-Coms (that alliteration took me a long time ngl)

Primrose Hill Skyline

For those who absolutely despite heights, the 63-metre-high Primrose Hill offers another beautiful view of the city skyline. Featured in Bridget Joness Diary and countless romantic Pinterest boards, it’s perfect for picnics, proposals, or pondering big life decisions like, ‘Should I get bangs?’

It’s open 24/7, so whether you’re here at sunrise, sunset, or for a midnight existential crisis, the hill has your back (though maybe pack a blanket—it’s British weather, after all).

Bonus points if your picnic includes snacks even you can’t justify.

4. Greenwich Park: Time Travel with a View

Greenwhich skyline

Greenwich Park is like stepping into a postcard, complete with the Royal Observatory and the kind of sprawling views that demand at least five Instagram stories. Stand on the Prime Meridian, wiggle your toes, and feel superior because you’re technically in two hemispheres at once.

Once you’ve soaked up the scenery, pop into Greenwich Market for street food so good it makes kale (whatever that is) seem like a distant memory.

Or just stay on the hill and yell “TIME!” dramatically. Either works.

5. Parliament Hill: A Politically Correct Panorama

City View Parliament Hill

Situated in Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill is the sort of place that makes you feel smugly British. It’s rumoured that the hill was used as a vantage point during the English Civil War, which means you can tell people you’re not just picnicking, you’re studying the history of the Brits (which, spoiler alert, hasn’t always been on the good side).

Today, it’s a peaceful spot for kite-flying, dog-walking, or drafting your manifesto. Bonus points if you bring a dog. (Extra bonus points if it’s your dog.)

6. Tate Modern’s Viewing Level: Art and Stuff Init

Tate Modern Viewing Level in London

Feeling artsy? Head to the Tate Modern and pretend you fully understand that one exhibit that looks like a squiggly line. It’s free—so save your cash for something meaningful, like an oat milk coffee or a canvas strangely reminiscent of a toddler’s doodle.

Then, head to the 10th-floor viewing terrace of the Tate Modern’s Blavatnik Building where you will find a stunning view of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the City, and the wider world around you. It’s the perfect spot to tell your friends, ‘I’m being intellectual today,’ while secretly Googling, ‘What’s an installation piece?’

7. Alexandra Palace: The People’s Palace with a View

Alexandra Palace City View

Affectionately known as ‘Ally Pally’ (this is the equivalent of me being called Amy Wamey), this venue is more than just a pretty face. It offers sweeping views that stretch across London from its hilltop perch, along with an ice rink, gigs, and a whole mini-forest vibe.

It’s got a little something for everyone: The view alone might inspire you to start journalling, or at least to text your friends, ‘I’m so outdoorsy now.’

8. The Garden at 120: Big Underdog Energy

The Garden at 120 City View

Often overlooked (like that one sibling at family gatherings), The Garden at 120 offers a rather serene rooftop experience. It’s basically the introvert of London’s rooftop scene—quiet, underrated, and surprisingly dashing.

Surrounded by skyscrapers, it’s a tranquil oasis with 360-degree views of the city. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh(ish) air, admire the landscaping, and treat yourself to a calming moment, then tell everyone you ‘found this hidden gem’ (even though it’s not really hidden).

And yes, it’s free—because sometimes the best things in life are (and I will bite anyone that disagrees).

9. Frank’s Café: Art, Drinks, and a Car Park

Frank's Cafe City View in London

What’s better than a rooftop? A rooftop on top of a car park, obviously.

Peckham’s Frank’s Café turns urban grit into artsy glam with cheap drinks (in London, of all places!), chill vibes, and sunsets so gorgeous they’ll make you forget you’re sitting on a slab of concrete.

Order a negroni, admire the sprawling views, and ponder life’s big questions: ‘Why don’t more car parks have bars?’ and ‘Is this what peak London looks like?’

The Grand Finale: See London, See Life

London’s skyline isn’t just about the views—it’s about the stories, the history, and the sheer audacity of a city that crams this much personality into one place.

From posh terraces to quirky car parks, these spots prove there’s no wrong way to experience the capital’s iconic horizons. So, go on, climb that hill, sip that oolong mocktail, or just stand and stare. Because after all, in London, even the rooftops have charm.

Amy Aed
With over a decade of experience as a professional travel and culture writer, along with seven years serving as the editor of a popular Welsh travel blog, Amy Aed has a deep knowledge of the industry. When not writing, you can find her booking last-minute flights to faraway places, sipping Uji-farmed matcha, or attempting 180s at the skatepark.
Why Canvas ?
Free to use, no commission, best price guaranteed - venues pay, so you don't have to
Know more
Logo image
5th Floor
55 Broadway
Westminster
London
SW1H 0BD
Subscribe to our newsletter
© 2025 Canvas Events Ltd·
Canvas Events LTD is a company registered in England and Wales (Company No. 07590925) 3rd Floor, 86-90 Paul Street, London, England, EC2A 4NE
Location Collective is the place to go if you are looking for a film location agency
Right arrow icon