The best viewing platforms in London
London is a city famed for its iconic skyline, dotted with historic landmarks and modern marvels. The capital offers a variety of observation platforms that provide breathtaking views across the River Thames or over to Big Ben. Gazing across the London skyline now, it is hard to believe that up until the 1960’s, St. Paul’s Cathedral was the tallest structure in London until the likes of the BT Tower sprung up. Sometimes you can’t appreciate the grandeur of London from the streets, so we have put together this guide of the best viewpoints in London!
ArcelorMittal Orbit 360
Appreciate the feat of engineering that is the ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture, as you enjoy a view of London like no other from its panoramic indoor viewing platform. The ArcelorMittal Orbit 360 is a breathtaking space where you can spot multiple London landmarks from 80m in the air, including the Shard and the BT Tower, whilst experiencing the ingenuity of Sir Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond, who designed the sculpture itself.
No matter the weather we can guarantee you’ll be left in awe seeing the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and beyond from above, casting your gaze 20 miles towards the horizon on a clear day! Spot multiple London landmarks such as Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral and the O2, and enjoy an aerial view of the former London 2012 Olympic venues.
Address: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, 5 Thornton St, London E20 2AD
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is a viewing platform located at the top of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building, named so due to its distinctive shape. Sitting 43 floors above the city, this green space filled with plants from all over the world, offers 360-degree views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The Sky Garden is London’s highest public garden and allows you to enjoy a sense of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of the London streets.
Address: 1, Sky Garden Walk, City of London, London EC3M 8AF
Lift 109
Lift 109 is the latest addition to London’s ever-growing list of viewing platforms across the city. Built into the recently renovated Battersea Power Station, this experience takes you on a journey to the top of one of the four chimney stacks, offering 360-degree views from 109 feet up. A glass elevator will take you to the top of the chimney through an immersive experience of flashing lights and original music, transporting you through the rich history of the building until you reach the panoramic view above.
Address: Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW8 5BN
Primrose Hill
Not your conventional viewing platforms like the others mentioned but nevertheless one of the best views in London. This hilltop lying in Regent’s Park, offers panoramic views of Regent’s Park and the city beyond. Just a 10-minute walk from Camden Market, this viewpoint summits at 63 metres, and with the surrounding trees maintained at a height below eye-level, panoramic views of the park and beyond can be enjoyed from atop the hill.
Address: Primrose Hill, Regent’s Park
