London is a dream destination for photography enthusiasts, with its iconic landmarks, historic architecture, scenic river views, and vibrant streets. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just capturing memories on your phone, the city offers countless opportunities for picture-perfect moments. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the best photography spots in London, including tips on how to get to each location and what makes them special ….Enjoy!!!
- Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
No photography trip to London is complete without a shot of the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. These landmarks stand as symbols of the city’s rich history and political heritage, and the best views can be captured from several vantage points.
- Top Photography Tip: Head to Westminster Bridge for an unobstructed view of both Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Another great spot is the South Bank near the London Eye, where you can frame the entire building complex along the River Thames.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is Westminster (Jubilee, Circle, and District lines), located right beside Big Ben.
- Best Time to Shoot: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Its stunning Victorian Gothic design, combined with views of the River Thames, makes it an ideal photography spot.
- Top Photography Tip: Capture the bridge from the south side of the river near Potters Fields Park for a sweeping view of the bridge with the City of London skyline in the background. If you want a unique angle, walk along the Thames Path near Butler’s Wharf to capture the bridge from a distance.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube stations are Tower Hill (District and Circle lines) and London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: Sunrise or sunset for golden light reflecting off the river. Night shots with the bridge illuminated are also striking.
- Buckingham Palace
The home of British royalty, Buckingham Palace, offers fantastic opportunities for regal photos, especially during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The palace’s grand facade, the surrounding statues, and The Mall leading up to the palace provide great backdrops.
- Top Photography Tip: Position yourself at the Victoria Memorial (the statue in front of the palace) to capture the palace with some added depth. If you’re there during the Changing of the Guard, arrive early to secure a spot near the gates for action shots.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube stations are Green Park (Piccadilly, Jubilee, and Victoria lines) and Victoria (Victoria, Circle, and District lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: Morning for fewer crowds, or during special royal events.
- The London Eye and South Bank
The London Eye is not only a great attraction to ride, but it also provides a perfect photography opportunity along the South Bank. The giant Ferris wheel, standing tall over the Thames, makes for an impressive photo, particularly at sunset or night when it’s illuminated.
- Top Photography Tip: Shoot from Jubilee Gardens for a close-up shot or head to Waterloo Bridge to capture the entire skyline, including the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament in the distance.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube stations are Waterloo (Jubilee, Bakerloo, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) and Embankment (District and Circle lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: Late afternoon for sunset, or after dark for long-exposure shots of the lit-up Ferris wheel.
- The Shard
At 310 meters, The Shard is the tallest building in London, offering breath-taking views over the entire city. While visiting the viewing platform is a great way to get aerial shots, the building itself also makes for a stunning photo.
- Top Photography Tip: For shots of The Shard from the ground, head to London Bridge or Potters Fields Park to capture the towering skyscraper rising above the city. If you’re taking skyline shots from a distance, Primrose Hill or Greenwich Park offer spectacular views.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: At night, when the building is illuminated, or on a clear day for skyline photos from the viewing platform.
- The Millennium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral
The Millennium Bridge, connecting St. Paul’s Cathedral to the Tate Modern, provides an amazing perspective for capturing both landmarks in one shot. The sleek, modern design of the bridge contrasts beautifully with the historic dome of St. Paul’s, making this a must-visit for photographers.
- Top Photography Tip: Stand in the middle of the Millennium Bridge, facing St. Paul’s Cathedral for a perfect shot of the cathedral framed by the bridge. For a wide-angle shot, shoot from the Tate Modern side, where you can also incorporate the river and skyline.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is St. Paul’s (Central line) or Blackfriars (District and Circle lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: Early morning for soft light or at night when the bridge is beautifully lit.
- The Sky Garden
For sweeping panoramic views of London, head to the Sky Garden in the Walkie Talkie building. It’s one of the best free places to get bird’s-eye views of London’s skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Shard, the Tower of London, and the Thames.
- Top Photography Tip: Take a wide-angle lens for stunning shots of the cityscape. You can also capture the beautiful indoor garden space, which adds a unique touch to your city photos.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is Monument (District and Circle lines). Be sure to book your free visit in advance online.
- Best Time to Shoot: At sunset or early evening to catch the changing colours of the sky and city lights.
- Primrose Hill
For a more relaxed yet equally impressive view of London, head to Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park. From here, you can capture the city skyline, including landmarks like the London Eye, the Shard, and the BT Tower.
- Top Photography Tip: Walk to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of London. Use a zoom lens to focus on individual buildings or opt for a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the cityscape.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is Chalk Farm (Northern line).
- Best Time to Shoot: Sunset offers some of the best lighting, with the sun setting behind the city skyline.
- Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market is one of London’s oldest markets, with its ornate roof and colourful decor making it a perfect spot for photography. The beautiful Victorian architecture, vibrant colours, and intricate detailing offer a contrast to the more modern parts of the city.
- Top Photography Tip: Visit early in the morning for empty shots of the market’s stunning arches. Focus on the symmetrical lines of the architecture or shoot from the entrance for a wide view of the interior.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube stations are Monument and Bank (District, Circle, Northern, and Central lines).
- Best Time to Shoot: Early morning to avoid crowds or at night when the market is illuminated.
- Covent Garden and Neal’s Yard
Covent Garden is not only known for its shopping and dining but also for its picturesque street performances and architecture. Just around the corner, Neal’s Yard is a hidden gem—a colourful courtyard full of vibrant shops and cafes that make for playful, colourful photos.
- Top Photography Tip: In Covent Garden, capture the street performers or the central piazza from an elevated position. At Neal’s Yard, shoot with a wide lens to capture the colourful facades.
- How to Get There: The nearest Tube station is Covent Garden (Piccadilly line).
- Best Time to Shoot: Mid-morning to catch good light in Neal’s Yard and avoid crowds.
Conclusion
London is filled with incredible photography spots, from historic landmarks like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to hidden gems like Leadenhall Market and Neal’s Yard. Whether you’re looking for stunning skyline views, architectural beauty, or vibrant street scenes, London has something to offer photographers of all levels. With convenient access via public transport, it’s easy to explore and capture the best of London’s photographic treasures. Come to London and make memories – there is only one life to live……..
If you need more tailor made choices for your iconic photoshoot in London – please don’t hesitate to contact me on info@passportismlondon.com