Seeing London from above is a great way to discover this incredibly fascinating and vibrant city full of history, culture and iconic attractions. However, the most popular vantage points, such as the London Eye Ferris wheel or The Shard skyscraper, can significantly impact your daily budget. In this article, you can discover the best places to see London from above without spending a penny, from viewing terraces to hillside parks.
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London from above: where to see the British capital for free
Seeing London from above is a unique and fascinating experience, allowing you to appreciate the whole city from a privileged vantage point. London’s impressive urban skyline comprises some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben, the London Eye and Tower Bridge. The view from above allows you to admire them all at once, creating an unforgettable experience.
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However, paid attractions like the London Eye or The View from the Shard can be pretty expensive, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Luckily, there are plenty of free alternatives to take in the panoramic views of London. For example, you have an incredible view of the city and the River Thames from Greenwich Park. At the same time, Primrose Hill is another great place to take in the entire urban skyline of London.
In addition, free alternatives such as the Tate Modern or Alexandra Palace allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the city and offer the chance to explore and discover contemporary British culture and art. You can admire London’s spectacular skyline from the places listed below without paying for access to the more expensive attractions.
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden, the world’s highest public park, is one of the best places to take in the panoramic views of London without spending a penny. Located in the heart of the City, the Sky Garden offers spectacular views of the city, from the Thames to the Tower of London via the London Eye. With a wide choice of restaurants and bars, you can enjoy the panoramic view while having dinner or an aperitif. Access is free, but tickets must be booked online in advance, with new tickets available every Monday.
Sky Garden
1, Sky Garden Walk
London EC3M 8AF
Tate Modern
The Tate Modern, one of the world’s most famous modern art museums, also offers a spectacular view of the city of London from above. Access to the viewing terrace is free and allows you to admire the iconic domes of St Paul’s Cathedral and the River Thames, along with other city attractions. Unfortunately, at the time of writing, it is closed until further notice. Still, you can access the bar terrace, called the Terrace Bar, for free to enjoy a drink with a panoramic view of the British capital.
Tate Modern
Bankside
London SE1 9TG
OXO Tower
The OXO Tower is another fantastic place to view London from above without spending money. The building was once part of a power station and home to the eponymous OXO bouillon cube factory. The tower, with the OXO name visible on the sides, is located along the Thames and offers a panoramic view of the river and St Paul’s Cathedral. To admire the city from above, take the lift up to the eighth floor and ask the restaurant to show you the entrance to the viewing terrace. If you want to stop for a drink or a meal, OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brasserie seems to be among the best sky bars in the British capital.
OXO Tower
Barge House St
London SE1 9PH
One New Change
Another place to see the London skyline for free is the rooftop terrace of the One New Change shopping centre, located behind the famous St Paul’s Cathedral. Accessible by lift, the terrace is open to the public daily during shopping centre opening hours and offers a breathtaking view of the Cathedral, one of London’s best-known landmarks.
One New Change
New Change
London EC4M 9AF
Primrose Hill
One of the best options to enjoy a panoramic view of London for free is to climb Primrose Hill, located north of the city in the Camden district and close to the popular tourist area. From the top, you can admire the London skyline, with a view stretching from the London Eye to the Tower of London, without spending a penny.
Primrose Hill
London NW3 3DE
Alexandra Park
In north London, Alexandra Park is a great place to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, including some of its iconic buildings such as The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral. Winner of several awards, including the Green Flag Award and Green Heritage, the park is next to Alexandra Palace, famous for hosting concerts and exhibitions.
Alexandra Palace
London N22 7AY
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is situated in the borough of Greenwich and is an ideal place to enjoy panoramic views of London and the River Thames free of cost. The park’s hills and vast meadows offer a breathtaking view of the city skyline. In addition to enjoying panoramic views, the park is also an excellent place to unwind, have a picnic and appreciate nature. It is especially popular on weekends among families with children.
Greenwich Park
Londra SE10 8QY
Parliament Hill
Hampstead Heath Park is home to one of London’s most spectacular viewpoints, Parliament Hill, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the British capital and its most famous landmarks. You can admire views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Palace of Westminster, the Gherkin, the Shard and many other iconic buildings from the top of the hill. The panoramic view is entirely free, and Hampstead Heath Park is easily accessible by public transport.
Parliament Hill
Heath Lodge
London NW5 1QR
See London from above: you can do it for free
As you can see, there are many free places to enjoy a panoramic view of London without spending a penny. Sky Garden, Tate Modern, OXO Tower, One New Change, Primrose Hill, Alexandra Park, Greenwich Park and Parliament Hill are just a few of the British capital’s viewpoints. With the possibility of seeing the entire urban skyline of London and its most famous monuments, these places offer truly spectacular views. Feel free to comment on your favourite place and if you have any others to add.