The London skyline is packed with an assortment of skyscrapers and historic architecture, making it one of the most iconic cities in the world. To get the best high-rise views over the city can be costly, but not all vistas have a price tag. Surprisingly, London offers free viewing platforms and breathtaking panoramas, which are among the highest in Europe.
Experiencing London at street level offers one perspective; however in order to truly appreciate the city’s grandeur, you must gain elevation. Some of the best locations to see stunning views are just around the corner. Here we highlight a few elevated viewpoints – just be mindful of any fear of heights!
Attractions
Sky Garden
The Fenchurch Building, with its distinctive “walkie talkie” design, houses the Sky Garden in London’s Financial District. Spanning three levels, this remarkable space features award-winning rooftop gardens, an observation deck, and an open-air terrace, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s iconic skyline.
You are free to visit the Sky Garden, with walk-ins welcome during public hours, although spaces may be limited. To ensure your spot, we highly recommend booking tickets in advance due to its popularity. Reserve tickets at the Sky Garden website. Meals and drinks are not compulsory for visitors. However, if you decide to treat yourself there are some great options to choose from.
Darwin Brasserie
Enjoy seasonal dishes at the stylish Darwin Brasserie located on the 36th floor with spectacular views.
Fenchurch Restaurant
Fine dine at the Fenchurch. Enjoy fusion cuisine in this elegant oasis rooftop restaurant.
Larch Restaurant
Located on the ground floor opposite the entrance to Sky Garden is The Larch restaurant, serving classic Italian dishes.
There are two Sky Garden bars, the Sky Pod, and City Garden (both 18+). Evenings feature live music and DJ sets.
A small café, and gift shop selling an assortment of souvenirs is located on the ground floor.
Opening hours:
Public Garden
Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 – 22:00
Bank Holidays: 11:00 – 21:00
Terrace
Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Monument (3 minute walk), Bank (7 minute walk).
Address: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF
Horizon 22
Horizon 22 boasts the highest free viewing gallery in Europe. Located on the 58th floor of the second tallest skyscraper in London, 22 Bishopsgate. From this vantage point, you can admire the iconic and historic buildings that make up the London skyline, including the famous ‘gherkin,’ ‘walkie-talkie,’ and Tower Bridge. A high-speed lift takes just a matter of seconds to get you to the top where you can take in breathtaking 360-degree views of London through floor to ceiling windows.
On two levels, the best area to take photos is on the lower floor, reflections from the windows can be frustrating. A small café serving snacks, hot and cold drinks is located on the main viewing floor.
You can visit Horizon 22 seven days a week with tickets available at no cost. You can book your time and date at Horizon22. Visitors are welcome to walk-up but prepare to queue if you don’t have a reservation. For an experience to remember why not treat yourself to a glass of champagne whilst watching the sunset over the capital.
Opening hours:
Weekdays: 10.00 – 18:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Monument (3 minute walk).
Address: 22 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4BQ
The Lookout – 8 Bishopsgate
The 51-story skyscraper at 8 Bishopsgate, known as “the Jenga,” has a free viewing platform on its 50th floor. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of West and South London.
Two small lifts take you swiftly up to the viewing gallery. As you enter, you’ll find floor-to-ceiling windows revealing breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic landmarks: Tower Bridge, The Shard, St Pauls Cathedral, and vistas beyond.
Free tickets are available to book on the website at 8 Bishopsgate. You are welcome to walk-up but prepare to queue if you don’t have a reservation.
Opening hours:
Monday and Friday: 12:00 – 21:00
Tuesday to Thursday: 10:30 – 17:30
Saturday: 11:00 – 18:00
Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10:00 – 17:00
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Monument (3 minute walk).
Address: 8 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4BQ
Tate Modern – Level 10
The Tate Modern, situated on the banks of the River Thames in the former Bankside Power Station, is popular and well-known for being a modern and contemporary art gallery. Along with exhibitions and art you can find more panoramas over London from Level 10.
Located on the top floor of the Blavatnik Building Level 10 is accessed via lift from levels 0 to 4. The viewing gallery is on a covered open walkway, which gives a better sense of being in the elements, without any glass reflections to interfere with photos. A café provides a selection of drinks, sandwiches and snacks whilst allowing you to relax and enjoy aerial views over the capital.
If you fancy something a bit more substantial than a sandwich, the Tate Modern Restaurant located on level 6 provides seasonal menus as well as afternoon tea, and often celebrates art with cultured dishes. The views from the restaurant windows of the city skyline are also stunning on this level.
Walk-ins are welcome, although booking a reservation is advisable.
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Blackfriars (5 minute walk).
Lift 109 Battersea Power Station
On my visits to London, I have often seen Battersea Power Station with its four huge chimneys pointing skyward. With the Battersea Power Station chimney lift experience, you get to see London from the top of one of those iconic white chimneys!
Lift 109 (109 meters high) may not be as high as some of London’s other viewing platforms, but the 360-degree vistas are truly spectacular. The lift can hold around 30 visitors at a time and has curved glass walls from floor to ceiling.
The experience begins in Turbine Hall A, featuring architecture dating from the Art Deco period, an interactive exhibition and exhibits highlight the buildings history and architectural significance. After visiting the displays, you are led to the lift area, here you ascend to the top of the North West chimney where you can take in the wonderful views over the River Thames and surrounding capital.
Tickets available at lift109.co.uk/tickets/
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 – 20:00
Closing times may vary seasonally. Please visit the website for current opening hours.
Admission: Adult from £17, Child (3 to 15) from £12.60, Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) from £54.60.
Nearest tube station: Battersea Power Station (9 minute walk).
Address: Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London, SW8 5BN
The Garden at 120
The Garden at 120 Fenchurch Street is one of London’s beautiful, free rooftop spaces situated on the 15th floor. Immaculately maintained with water features, trees, wildflowers, climbing plants and seating areas, providing a tranquil oasis to relax whilst enjoying the 360-degree views over the capital. Picnics and soft drinks are allowed, alcohol is not permitted. A small kiosk is located on the level below, selling drinks and snacks.
The rooftop space is free to the general public, and no booking is required just turn up and enjoy the views. Be prepared to queue at busy times. Click here to view footfall.
Opening hours:
Summer 1 April – 30 September
Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 21:00
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
Winter 1 October – 31 March
Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:30
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
Bank Holidays
Closed.
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Monument and Tower Hill (5 minute walk).
Address: Garden at 120, 120 Fenchurch Street, EC3M 5BA
The Shard
Officially known as The Shard of Glass is the tallest building in the UK and, at the time of its completion in 2012, the tallest in Western Europe. Standing at 310 meters (1,016 feet). The Shard is well known for its unique and striking design by the Italian architect Renzo Piano. Boasting pretty much the best views to be had over the capital and beyond.
After passing through security, step into the high-speed lift and in just 60 seconds you are up on Level 68! Here you can experience ‘The View from The Shard.’ Relax and enjoy high rise cocktails at the Champagne and cocktail bar or move up to the Level 69 observation deck for further spectacular views and admire the best of London’s modern architecture and iconic buildings below.
The Open Air Skydeck is located on level 72 here you can enjoy fabulous 360-degree views and look down over the city and magnificent views of the river Thames and it’s bridges, winding through the capital. On a clear day you can see up to 40 miles in all directions. The good news being a bad-weather policy that lets you return for free if visibility reaches a poor enough level and clouds engulf the area.
Not to forget, when you purchase a London Pass you will receive free admission to the View from the Shard as well as other great attractions.
For more information and bookings visit The View from The Shard
Opening hours: See website.
Nearest tube station: London Bridge (3 minute walk).
Address: 31 St Thomas Street, SE1 9RY
Restaurants
The Shard
The Shard has several restaurants and bars offering high-end dining with amazing vista’s over London day and night.
Aqua Shard – Contemporary British dishes (level 31).
Oblix – Brunch, Dinner, and Afternoon tea (level 32).
Hutong – Cuisines of Northern China (level 33).
TĪNG – British cuisine with an Asian twist (level 35).
GŎNG – Cocktail and Champagne bar (level 52).
The Shard is free to the general public to visit the restaurants and bars, you will of course be paying for food or drink. However, you need a ticket to visit the viewing platforms on the 8th, 69th, and 72nd floors. You can obtain walk-up tickets, but they are subject to a first-come, first-served policy, so booking is advised.
One New Change – Madison’s
One New Change is a trendy shopping centre near St Paul’s Cathedral, located in the heart of the city. Unknown to most, One Change has a free 6th floor roof terrace open to all with panoramic vistas across London and stunning views of the historic Cathedral.
Up on the terrace is Madison’s rooftop restaurant, and cocktail bar, available for lunch, dinner, and special events. DJs and live music provide a great atmosphere, alongside spectacular views whilst dining on a menu of American inspired classics. Head here at the weekend for a bottomless brunch with bubbles! Or just enjoy a snack and a signature cocktail.
Menu: madisonlondon.net/menus
Reservations: madisonlondon.net
Roof Terrace Update
The management has closed the roof terrace to public access at this time for essential maintenance work; please visit the website for updates. Madison’s is open as usual.
Opening hours:
Mondays to Saturday: 12:00 – midnight
Sundays and Bank Holidays: 12:00 -22:00
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: St Pauls (4 minute walk).
Radio Rooftop
A lovely and relaxed setting in London’s unique Covent Garden. Situated on the 10th floor of the ME London Hotel, Radio Rooftop provides a mix of panoramic views with sophisticated ambience, and a cool vibe. Enjoy a cocktail and some amazing sushi, share a plate of Asian delights, or experience the Chef’s Tasting menu. Pop in on Thursday to Saturday when the evenings begin to buzz with a mix of melodic house and South African tunes played by the in-house DJs.
It’s a good idea to secure your spot early since the rooftop bar is very popular, especially on weekends. You can make reservations by visiting radiorooftop.com. Dress code, Smart Casual.
Opening hours:
Sunday to Wednesday: 12:00 – midnight
Thursday to Saturday: 12:00 – 01:30
Admission: Free.
Nearest tube station: Covent Garden (5 Minute walk).
Address: ME London, 336-337 The Strand, London WC2R 1HA
Duck & Waffle – Heron Tower
The Duck & Waffle boasts the highest 24-hour restaurant in London, and what a spectacular place to eat from sunrise to sunset. Located on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, the second tallest building in London’s financial district.
Great food, cocktails and glamorous design await in the relaxing dining area and with spectacular views of the busy city below, making for a great dining experience. The Duck & Waffle is known for its – ‘urm’ – duck and waffles! Which can be ordered from the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu.
Heading up to the Duck & Waffle
The adventure begins as you step into the glass elevator on the building’s exterior, swiftly taking you to the 40th floor in just around 30 seconds! The ascent is remarkably smooth, and with just a couple of other guests joining us, it offers a wonderful opportunity to take in the cityscape, whether it’s day or night.
Our reservation was booked for 11:30am, although walk-ups are accommodated if there are tables free. We were warmly welcomed by a friendly concierge who led us to a lovely table by the window, overlooking The Gherkin with Tower Bridge in the distance. We decided to try the bacon-wrapped dates and the signature Duck & Waffle from the brunch menu—how could we resist? When our food arrived, it exceeded our expectations. The crispy leg confit was beautifully placed on a thick waffle, topped with a perfectly fried duck egg and accompanied by a small jug of mustard maple syrup. It was absolutely delicious.
Open for sunrise breakfasts to midnight snacks and cocktails in-between the Duck & Waffle can cater for all your hunger cravings.
Reservations can be made at duckandwaffle.com/London/reservations/. Dress code, Smart Casual.
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday: 24 hours.
Nearest tube station: Liverpool Street (3 minute walk).
Address: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
SUSHISAMBA City
If going up to the 40th floor of the Herron Tower to the Duck & Waffle is too far, stop at the floors below and visit SUSHISAMBA City (Level 38), still with incredible views through floor to ceiling windows and the highest outdoor terraces to be found in Europe, open for drinks (weather permitting). A variety of menus offer culinary delights from Japan, Brazil, and Peru.
Lights draping from the open bamboo ceiling create an enchanting experience, more so when the sun sets. The custom SUSHISAMBA tree sculpture sits on the West terrace is a wonderful piece of artwork. The tree features the distinctive SUSHISAMBA orange and is beautifully lit up with hundreds of twinkling lights. A great backdrop for a selfie!
Reservations can be made at SUSHISAMBA . Dress code, Smart Casual.
Experience the SAMBAROOM, cocktail bar & lounge (Level 39). Enter through a corridor lined with golden palm trees and mirrored walkway leading you into the luxurious and sophisticated sky-bar with bamboo ceiling and intimate lighting. An area where you can drink hand crafted cocktails based on the cultures of Brazil, Peru, and Japan, against the panorama of East London. In addition to drinks there is a ‘bar bites’ menu with a selection of delicious small plates.
Reservations can be made at SAMBAROOM . Dress code, Smart Casual.
Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday: 12:00 – 01:30
Nearest tube station: Liverpool Street (3 minute walk).
Address: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
Iris & Helix
You may have seen the top of the iconic ‘Gherkin’, but not realised that way up there, at the very top (Level 40) is the Iris & Helix panoramic, cocktail bar and restaurant run by Searcys. Iris being the cocktail bar, and Helix the restaurant both boasting eye watering 360-degree views over London. Iris sits above Helix, with the great domed glass ceiling of the Gherkin seemly within touching distance.
The champagne and cocktail bar has a range of tempting drinks as well as nibbles and snacks, including cured meats, selection of British cheese and smoked salmon blinis. Helix restaurant has an array of treats including Afternoon Tea, Vegan Afternoon Tea and seasonal set menus inspired by the best of British cooking. Events are often held at the Iris & Helix, see website for further details, and booking information.
Although open to the general public, you will still be required to book in advance.
Dress code, Smart Casual.
Opening hours:
Helix
Lunch
Wednesday to Friday 12:30 – 14:30
Sunday 12:00 -16:00
Dinner
Wednesday 17:30 – 19:30
Thursday to Saturday 17:30 – 20:30
Afternoon Tea
Wednesday to Saturday 14:00 – 15:30
Iris
Daily: 11:00 – 23:00
Nearest tube station: Aldgate (2 minute walk).
Address: The Gherkin, 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8EP
Bōkan, Canary Wharf
Bōkan, meaning ‘lighthouse’ is a modern European restaurant-bar located in Canary Wharf, on floors 37, 38 and 39, of the modern Novotel Hotel. At just over 127m this great glass skyscraper is the tallest Novotel in the world.
Spread over three floors, Bōkan has a stylish, rustic vibe with wooden beams and floors with exposed brick and metalwork features. The inviting leather seating and vibrant cushioning creates a warm and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a drink or dine in the fabulous restaurant.
A chic bar awaits on the 38th floor serving a wide selection of drinks, including craft beers, as well as unique cocktails influenced by the Dockland’s area.
The stunning rooftop terrace on level 39 is accessed by a wooden staircase. The glass-walled, part covered area has bench and bar stool seating, with 360-degree panoramic views over the docklands and capital. Here you can relax and enjoy the stunning views and watch the sun go down over the capital whilst enjoying a gin from Bōkan’s specialist gin bar.
Don’t forget to visit the luxurious loos, with floor-to-ceiling windows, low lighting, and more stunning views. Probably the most quirky place in London to spend a penny!
Opening hours:
Bar
Monday to Wednesday: 16:00 -23:00
Thursday: 16:00 – midnight
Friday: 13:00 – 01:00
Saturday: 12:00 – 01:00
Sunday: 12:00 – 23:00
Restaurant
Tuesday-Saturday 18:00 – 23:00
Saturday Brunch 12:30 – 16:30
Dress code, Smart Casual.
Nearest tube station: Canary Wharf (8 minute walk).
Address: Bōkan, 37-39, 40 Marsh Wall, E14 9TP
Website: bokanlondon.co.uk
Parks
Primrose Hill – Regents Park
Primrose Hill is one of the best places to take in the views of London’s iconic buildings and grade II listed parkland. Located North of Regent’s Park, the top of the hill is one of London’s six protected viewpoints. From here there are wonderful panoramic views over Regents Park and the Capital. Notable landmarks include, St Pauls Cathedral, The Shard, Post Office Tower, and Canary Wharf.
During your visit, be sure to see the inscription by William Blake and the ancient oak tree planted in 1864 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth.
This is a lovely area to have a picnic, or enjoy the local eateries including, delis and gastro pubs located along Regents Park Road and surrounding streets. Primrose Hill is also a magical place to take in the sunset over London.
Admission: Free
Temporary opening hours:
Monday to Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday and Sunday: 06:00 – 22:00 (until October).
Nearest tube station: Chalk Farm (8 minute walk).
Bus service: Plan your bus journey with TFL
Nearest car park: On-street parking only (chargeable). See Park Map.
King Henry’s Mound – Richmond Park
King Henry’s Mound is located in Richmond Park one of London’s largest Royal Parks. It’s home to herds of deer, birdlife, and ancient woodlands. Here you can walk in the steps of Henry VIII and take in the views he would have visited whilst out hunting, riding, and taking in his realm.
The Mound is the highest point in the park and is believed to have been created as a pre-historic burial chamber. From this protected viewpoint take in the panoramic views of the Thames Valley and London skyline. A telescope is set on the summit so visitors can take a closer look at iconic buildings including St Paul’s Cathedral 10 miles away. The view is carefully maintained so that no buildings obstruct the sightline.
Located by entering through Richmond Gate in the North West, the mound is through a large green gate and up a short slope, follow the signpost marked as ‘St Pauls View’
Around the perimeter of the park, you’ll find the Tamsin Trail a 7.35 mile scenic route, which passes King Henry’s Mound. Tea rooms and beautiful gardens can be found at Pembroke Lodge with more picturesque views over the Thames Valley.
Admission: Free
Opening hours:
Pedestrian Gates: Open 24 hours.
Vehicle Gates 07:00 – Park closing. See park webpage
Nearest tube/train station: Richmond (30 minute walk).
Bus service: Plan your bus journey with TFL
Nearest car park: Petersham Park Car Park. See park map
Richmond Hill
Richmond Hill is located just a 5 minute walk from Richmond Park. This is another local area with amazing views of the river Thames winding from the horizon with meadowlands and trees. The Terrace viewing platform at the summit was built in the 18th century. From here you can also make out Twickenham Stadium and the control tower at Heathrow Airport in the distance.
The view from Richmond Hill has been celebrated by artists, poets, and writers for centuries and is even protected by an Act of Parliament to preserve its beauty.
Richmond town is a short walk from the hill, with a mix of shops, restaurants, and pubs as well as the Richmond Theatre and Museum.
Nearest tube/train station: Richmond (15 minute walk).
Bus service: Plan your bus journey with TFL
Greenwich Park
Another hunting ground of King Henry VIII, and the oldest Royal Park in London. Greenwich Park is famous for The Royal Observatory, home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), here you can stand on the Prime Meridian, the line that historically marks the centre of world time. However, it is also well known for its glorious views over London’s skyline.
The area around the Observatory may become crowded with tourists taking selfies, and admiring the views, if so, move along to the summit of One Tree Hill, located about a ten minute walk from the Observatory. Here you can find a peaceful vista point away from the masses with just as good views of the capital and the lush, landscaped parkland. The area is also one of the best places to watch the sun go down.
Along with the outstanding views and green spaces Greenwich Park offers, it also boasts a boating pond, children’s play area (suitable for ages up 12), and the Queens House dating back to 1616. A former royal residence which now serves as an art gallery, and cafés great for coffee, hot chocolate, and cakes.
Admission: Free
Opening hours:
Pedestrian Gates: 06:00 -21:00
Vehicle Gates: 07:00 – Park closing time. See park webpage
Nearest tube: There is no underground station within easy reach of the park.
Nearest train: Maze Hill and Greenwich rail service. Docklands Light Railway has stops at Greenwich and Cutty Sark stations.
Bus services: Plan your bus journey with TFL
Nearest car park: Blackheath Avenue. See park map
Parliament Hill – Hampstead Heath
Parliament Hill, located on the southeastern corner of Hampstead Heath is one of the highest land viewpoints in London at 98 meters and has wonderful panoramic views across the capital. A number of benches are dotted around making this is a lovely spot to relax and enjoy a picnic or take in the views from the many path trails across the heath.
Formally known as Traitor’s Hill, legend says the mound is where the 1605 Gunpowder Plot conspirators met to get a good view of the planned explosion of the Houses of Parliament, just over 6 miles south of the hill, they were obviously disappointed!
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is the second largest park in London and has a vast expanse of landscape including woodlands and rolling grasslands. With plenty of things to do, including Hampstead Heaths three Swimming Ponds and Parliament Hill Lido all great for those warm summer days. Open to the general public 365 days a year.
Kenwood House
Kenwood House is a 17th-century neoclassical mansion set on the North East edge of the heath. Inside is a spectacular museum filled with an extensive art collection, including sculptures and decorative arts. Food and drink is available at the Brew House Café, providing a selection of refreshments. Additionally, there is a picnic area with benches where you can relax and soak up the beauty of the surrounding area. The house is surrounded by beautiful, landscaped gardens and is free to the general public, open daily 10:00am – 17:00pm.
Hampstead Pergola, actually located in Golders Hill Park, next door to Hampstead Heath is also worth a visit whilst in the area. This Georgian arbour and terrace, overgrown with vines and exotic flowers is located in the Hill Garden with expansive views across Hampstead Heath and is free to the general public. The Pergola opens at 8:30am and closes between 15:30pm and 20:15pm.
Admission: Free
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Nearest tube: Golders Green, North park (10 minute walk). Hampstead Station, South park, (10 minute walk).
Nearest train: Hampstead Heath Station, Gospel Oak Station.
Bus services: Plan your bus journey with TFL
Nearest car parks:
- East Heath Car Park.
- Jack Straws Car Park.
- The Parliament Hill Lido Car Park.
- Golders Hill Park Car Park (Blue badge holders only)
Consult the park map for details on navigating the area and locating parking.
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