London is a photographer’s (and Instagram addict’s!) absolute dream. Everywhere you look, there is something incredible to look at and capture, from stunning skylines to amazing architecture, interesting eateries and beautiful nature havens.
If you’re new to London and are desperate to document your stay with some pictures, we’re here to help. Here’s a list of some of the city’s most photogenic spots, from London Attractions to pubs that have withstood the test of time, alleyways and more.
King’s Cross Station
In London, we do love our public transport, so it’s only fitting that we start the list with arguably the city’s best station.
Kings Cross is as impressive as it is large. A major redevelopment was commenced in the 21st century, including restoration of the original roof, which is now a favourite with snap-happy London visitors.
The station also welcomes hordes of Harry Potter fans each year, as it was here that the scenes featuring the children catching the train to Hogwarts were filmed. There’s even a pretend Platform 9 ¾ that is a must photo opportunity for fans of the franchise.
As it’s such a centre point for tourists, there are lots of London Hotel Special Offers to be snapped up nearby, too. Book early for great value rooms!
Goodwin’s Court
A blink-and-you’ll-miss-them set of steps from St. Martin’s Lane leads through a low-roofed arch and around a corner to reveal what seems to be a perfectly preserved piece of London nostalgia: a charming stretch of elaborate window fronts and gaslight lamps, which look like they’ve jumped straight out of a Victorian novel.
It’s also another spot that’s a favourite with Harry Potter fans the world over, as it’s said to be the inspiration for JK Rowling’s fictional street Diagon Alley, and it’s easy to see why. Check it out to see for yourself.
Regent’s Street and Oxford Street
Arguably London’s two most famous streets, no list of London’s most photogenic spots would be complete without them. Capture London in all its (shopping) glory complete with red buses and black taxis in the background, which help make the city famous. Just around the corner from Oxford Street, you’ll find Regent’s Street.
You simply can’t leave without taking a photo of its famous curve.
Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market is a tourist Mecca, and the perfect place to pick up a snack, a piece of unique art or a fun trinket from your trip. With the cobbled streets, the market in the centre and the street entertainers all around, this will make for a beautiful and busy photo – a perfect representation of London.
Neal’s Yard
If London Instagrammers had a base, this would probably be it.
This colourful little alleyway tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Covent Garden is a paradise for snapping a perfect photo. It’s a bright and vibrant little cove of health and wellbeing shops, ideal for picking up a re-energising smoothie or a nice light lunch after a long day of walking around, or a long night of heavy eating and drinking!
Tower Bridge
Did you even come to London if you didn’t get a photo of the bridge? Whether far away from it, under it, or on it, this top London attraction looks great at any angle. Top tip: go early in the morning to avoid the large crowds.
Kew Gardens
Tourists (and London natives) flock to Kew Gardens in the hundreds of thousands each year, and after a few minutes in the beautiful surroundings, you’ll soon see why.
There are over 50,000 living plants to be found across this UNESCO World Heritage site, each as beautiful and as photogenic as the next. It’s right at the end of the District Line, and just a short walk from the station, so it’s fairly easy to get to from central London, too.
Notting Hill and Portobello Road
There are a lot of beautiful, pastel coloured streets around Notting Hill which feel like something out of a film set.
Your best bet is to get off at Notting Hill Gate station and then walk through Portobello Road, where you can also get some amazing snaps of the famous Portobello Road Market. It’s easy to see why it’s an absolute favourite with locals.
This area is also a great place to stay, as there are a lot of great hotels in Kensington.
The Churchill Arms
Well, we couldn’t create a London list without a typical English boozer on it, could we?
The Churchill Arms is also known as the most photogenic pub in London, and with a facade covered in plants and flags, it’s hard to miss. The Churchill Arms is an example of truly British eccentricity (and passion for great pubs of course) and is located in the heart of Kensington – a beautiful part of the city in itself. It’s also just a stone’s throw away from the Park Grand Restaurant too, which is perfect for filling up after a long day of snapping away if you’re looking for something more than simple pub grub.
Parliament Square
If you don’t mind the current scaffolding covering the majority of Big Ben, this is a great spot to capture some true London icons in what is one of the most photographed parts of the city.
Red phone boxes, important parliament buildings and historical statues – this area has it all. Naturally, this area is a hotbed for tourists, so be prepared to wait a while to get the desired shot as you battle the crowds.
St Paul’s Cathedral
One of the most iconic components of the London city skyline, St Paul’s should be on the list of any architecture fan. Try coming to this location at sunset for much better light as it looks particularly dreamy during this time of day.
The View from the Shard
Another one of the most famous buildings in the capital, a trip up the Shard is a must for those who like their views with some added adrenaline.
If you don’t fancy paying £15 for a cocktail in one of the bars, you can just take a trip up to the viewing platform instead for truly breath-taking 360 views of the city. One word of warning for those who are afraid of heights… don’t look directly downwards!
