All Articles The best views in London: restaurants, hotels and free spots

The best views in London: restaurants, hotels and free spots

A bunch of tourists standing around with the view of the London Bridge in the background
Image: Diane Picchiottino / Unsplash
By Amelia Ang10 Jun 2022 7 minutes read

London has one of the world’s best cityscapes, featuring an enthralling blend of medieval buildings with modern skyscrapers. Here are our favorite spots with the best views in London.

Best free views of London

1. Sky Garden

View from the Sky Garden in London
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

Panoramic views of London, three stories worth of flourishing plants, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows? If you’re thinking of whipping out your credit card, put it away, because Sky Garden offers everything for absolutely nothing. It’s best to book your free ticket early—tickets are released every Monday, and can be booked up to three weeks in advance. Free admission is only available for one hour, so consider dining at Sky Pod Bar or Darwin Brasserie if you’d like to stick around for longer.

“When visiting London, this really is a "must see" - and its FREE!. Best to pre-book (although you may be lucky in getting in without). The views once you get to the viewing area are amazing - a full 360o view of London. We were lucky in that we had a beautiful sunny day when we visited.”—Deryck W

2. One New Change

View from One New Change rooftop, overlooking St Paul's Cathedral
Image: Mangagement / Tripadvisor

Come for the shopping at One New Change, but stay for the spectacular view. The rooftop of this shopping mall overlooks St. Paul’s Cathedral, and it’s free to access. There are various vantage points along the terrace, and you’ll even be able to see Crystal Palace in the distance.

“The One New Change building/office/restaurant shopping complex is housed in a modern glass structure adjacent to St. Paul's Cathedral. You'd never know there was a fabulous, large open terrace at the top - a London secret! Since we were unable to book Sky Garden tickets, we opted to go here instead and we were not disappointed! There are only 2 elevators so be aware of crowds surging on and off, there's a little bit of a wait. There are various vantage points along the roof and you can take a great panoramic shot of the London skyline of St. Paul's Cathedral, the Eye, Shard, the Gherkin, Thames, etc. Super place to visit and totally worth it at sunset!”—Suzanne R

3. One Tree Hill (Honor Oak Park)

View overlooking London from the One Tree Hill at Honor Oak Park in London
Image: Brian T / Tripadvisor

About half an hour away from Central London by train, Honor Oak Park sits within a quiet suburb. Its defining feature is One Tree Hill, which is actually covered with hundreds of ancient trees. The summit’s octagonal viewing platform provides a picturesque view of the London skyline, framed by verdant leaves, fiery foliage, or winding branches, depending on the season.

“Great views over London in a non tourist spot. Great walks and a few bits of local history around. Very nice area for a walk.”—Monica S

4. Tate Modern

View from Tate Modern in London
Image: Hardwaremister / Tripadvisor

Tate Modern is home to some of the world’s best modern and contemporary art. But did you know the museum also has a viewing level? Head to the Blavatnik Building, a new extension at the rear of Tate Modern, and take an elevator up to the 10th floor to see the city of London in all its glory.

“Epic views of the London landscape, a full 360 degrees. Great views of the city, the Shard and many, many of London’s attractions.”—Dr_Waugh

Best views of London at night

5. Tower Bridge

Light trails from passing cars along the Tower Bridge in London at night
Image: Ruth Gledhill / Unsplash

While Tower Bridge is magnificent even from afar, it’s worth going up the bridge itself for the view. This is a popular spot for night photography tours as you’ll be able to capture the light trails from the iconic red buses passing through.

“The view is beautiful, as well as the construction is well made and wonderful. A landmark, which is a must in London! Nice to make photos, too.”—JHONNY

6. Emirates Air Line Cable Car

View from Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London at night
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

Fly across the Thames River on the Emirates Air Line, a cable car that runs between Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. As the sky darkens, admire the reflection of The O2 rippling on the water, as well as the glittering lights in Canary Wharf. Night flights are extended so that you can enjoy a lengthy round trip of about 25 minutes. Just like any other form of transport in London, simply tap your Oyster card to board. We also love this tour that comes with a hop-on hop-off catamaran ride.

“Absolutely fantastic, easy, great value for money, incredible views, great access to the O2. Highly recommend. Best £8 I’ve spent.”—Worlds Our Oyster (Georgia & David)

7. Rooftop Film Club (Bussey Building)

People watching a film screening at Rooftop Film Club in London at sunset
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

In summer, the rooftop of the Bussey Building gets taken over by Rooftop Film Club, an outdoor cinematic experience. Settle into a lounge chair to watch a movie as night falls and the city comes alive around you. As seats are unassigned, come early to get a good spot. You can even order food and drinks straight to your seat.

“Lovely night. We watched the sound of metal during the bank holiday weekend. Luckily the weather was lovely and the view with the sunset was amazing. Definitely worth the money just for the view. We ordered pizza and garlic bread which we really enjoyed. Blankets were provided which was appreciated. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting to do something in London that is a little different!”—Hannah

Best London bars and restaurants with a view

8. 12th Knot

View of London from 12th Knot cocktail bar in London
A woman drinking champagne at 12th Knot bar in London with the view of the skyline in the background
Image: Mariano T (left), Roli1212 (right) / Tripadvisor

Perched atop Sea Containers London, 12th Knot is an eclectic rooftop bar that overlooks London’s shimmering skyline. The stylish lounge’s cocktails are based on seasonal ingredients, so there’s always something new to try. 12th Knot can get busy, so you should probably make a booking in advance, although the outdoor terrace’s tables are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Lovely bar at the top of Sea Containers hotel where we were staying - fantastic views over the River from inside and even better from the outside terrace if you are lucky enough to get a seat out there.”—SallyF906

9. Hutong

View from Hutong restaurant in London in the evening
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

Tuck into fiery Northern Chinese delights at Hutong, located on the 33rd floor of The Shard. The restaurant is designed to ensure that you’ll get an amazing view no matter where you sit. While there are plenty of à la carte dishes to choose from, we recommend going for the signature menu, which will take you on a tantalizing journey of Hutong’s best dishes.

“Couldn’t get a table at the last minute for dinner here on a Saturday night, but that’s not surprising as it is an amazing restaurant, but I was still able to get a drink in the bar area, and I don’t think there is a better place to have a pre dinner drink any where better in the world! The view of London from the shard is the best.” —Michelllechampers

10. SUSHISAMBA

The view of SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower from the inside
View from SUSHISAMBA's East Terrace
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

It’s hard to keep your mouth closed at SUSHISAMBA for many reasons. Once you step in, you’ll be struck by the magical combination of indoor and outdoor elements at this rooftop restaurant. Dine in the main dining room, which has floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering a jaw-dropping view, or enjoy cocktails under the stars at SUSHISAMBA’s two outdoor terraces. And as its name suggests, you’ll find a delectable range of sushi here—the samba rolls are a must-try.

“We absolutely loved it, it was for our 5th anniversary and the team made it so special. We got a brilliant seat by the window! The food was out of this world and staff were brilliant. If you want to see London at night, this is the place to do it. We have lived here for four years and this is the best place we have ever been to!” —G7152BKgeorgep

11. City Social

View from the City Social bar in London
Image: Management / Tripadvisor

Located on the 24th floor of Tower 42, City Social features Art Deco-style interiors against a backdrop of the alluring London skyline. You’ll be up close to The Gherkin at this Michelin star restaurant, which uses top-notch local ingredients to bring you the best of British fare. The cocktails are also impeccable, evidenced by the always-buzzy bar counter. This romantic spot even has a special table allocated for those planning to pop the question.

“Had dinner at the restaurant and drinks at the bar. Both times, the service was incredible and the drinks delicious. The view is amazing with the Gherkin right in front of you.”—TrailBlazer64977

12. Duck & Waffle

Management / Tripadvisor
Image: View from Duck & Waffle in the evening

Whether you’re looking for a midnight snack or weekend brunch with a view, Duck & Waffle has got your back. This is London’s most dazzling 24-hour dining venue, and has been labeled a “game-changer” by food critics. While we recommend trying the iconic waffle served with crispy leg confit, the restaurant also offers plenty of other great dishes, including vegan and gluten-free items. So stop waffling around and swing by to have a ducking good time.

“Excellent service, fantastic food, very fast service from very capable team. Lucky to have a corner seat to enjoy the incredible views.”—208trevorg

13. Galvin at Windows

View from Galvin at Windows in London
Image: The_Loup_Garou / Tripadvisor

Another Michelin-starred pick, Galvin at Windows makes the most of its prime location near Hyde Park. Head up to the 28th floor of the Hilton Hotel for seasonal fine dining, impeccable service, and of course, stunning views of London. Savor the innovative creations and top it off with a drink at the bar, named 10 Degrees, after the golden hour when the setting sun glows 10 degrees off the horizon.

“What an amazing restaurant. I booked it for a very special occasion and the staff went all out to make it so. The views are spectacular and the tasting menu was fantastic.”—timbr21

Best London hotels with a view

14. Shangri-la The Shard

A woman enjoying the view from the pool at Shangri-la The Shard in London
View from the suite bath at Shangri-la The Shard in London
Image: Rachael I (left), Management (right) / Tripadvisor

Enjoy a stay in the pinnacle of London. The capital’s highest hotel, Shangri-la The Shard, takes up 18 floors in the iconic building, starting from level 34. Sleek, modern, and luxurious, this hotel even has an infinity pool, where you can literally soak in the view.

“Money can’t buy waking up to this view. What money can, and did buy, was a comfortable stay in a stunning location. The room was very clean and had lots of thoughtful extras ( heated loo seat anyone?) I particularly enjoyed the pool and sauna area. Every member of staff was friendly and attentive. The only negative is that I don’t have another trip booked there yet.”—mh3883

15. Treehouse Hotel London

View from a room in the Treehouse Hotel London
Image: C A / Tripadvisor

Treehouse Hotel’s cozy and colorful rooms—all of which feature huge bay windows—are inspired by children’s clubhouses. Its Lookout Rooms face landmarks like the Walkie Talkie building and The Shard, while Skyline Rooms let you admire the sweeping cityscape.

“From our arrival to reaching the room, as well as dining and drinks on the top floor, this place delivers on every level. Gracious and helpful staff, clean and highly functional rooms, delicious food and cocktails and, the icing on the cake, spectacular views across London like you've never seen. It's a hidden gem and won't remain our best kept secret for long...!!”—RAOUL SHAH

16. DoubleTree by Hilton

View from the lounge at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London
View of the Gherkin from DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London at night
Image: Emma H (left), Management (right) / Tripadvisor

DoubleTree by Hilton is located five minutes away from the Tower of London, so you’ll be able to wake up to see the sun rise over Tower Bridge. If you sleep in, you can always enjoy a sunset drink at the rooftop bar. Tip: You’ll get the best views in the aptly named City Suites.

“Stayed here for 3 nights last week (Sunday-Tuesday) & had a lovely time. Location of this hotel is perfect with views of Tower Bridge, Tower of London, the Thames & The Shard. We could even see the Gherkin from our hotel window. Tower Hill tube station is a short 3-5 minute walk, so really convenient.”—Caroline P

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Amelia Ang
Amelia is a writer and traveler based in Singapore. Some of her favorite cities include Tokyo, New York, and Taipei. Amelia is fluent in English, Chinese, basic Korean, and intermediate Japanese.