London isn’t just the world’s financial center. It’s also one of the world’s most Instagrammable cities with a veritable treasure trove of photogenic spots. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city offers a plethora of opportunities for Instagrammers to capture stunning shots.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of 30 of the best photo spots in London. We’ll start in Central London, then we’ll head around the city from West London to East London, to South London then up to North London, before ending up at some of London’s fantastic rooftop bars for a refreshing cocktail while taking some more snaps. Whether you’re a seasoned Instagrammer, a London expert, or a newbie looking for inspiration, this guide is sure to give you ideas to shoot the perfect Instagram shots in London.

1. Sky Garden

Located at 20 Fenchurch Street, Sky Garden is a unique venue that offers panoramic views of London. The lush greenery and the open-air terrace make it a perfect spot for Instagram photos.

The Sky Garden is not just a garden but a space that offers a 360-degree view of the city. The best part? Entry to the Sky Garden is free, although you’re definitely advised to book your visit in advance (we’ve talked our way in!). The venue also houses restaurants and bars, so you can grab a bite or a drink while enjoying the view.

• Location: 1, Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The Sky Garden is particularly beautiful at sunset when the city is bathed in a warm, golden light.

2. St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral is one of London’s most iconic landmarks but is definitely not underrated. Its location offers numerous angles for capturing its beauty.

One of the best spots is from One New Change shopping mall, where you can capture the cathedral and its reflection in two symmetric window glasses. The cathedral’s stunning architecture, combined with the modern glass facade of the shopping mall, creates a striking contrast. Don’t forget to explore the cathedral’s interior as well, which is equally impressive with its intricate mosaics and grand dome.

• Location: St Paul’s Cathedral, St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The cathedral is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for night photography.

3. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is quintessentially London. No tour of the best photo spots in London would be complete without it.

For a particularly well-framed shot, stand on the riverside opposite the Shard and capture the whole bridge with the Shard in the background. This spot offers a classic view of London, combining two of the city’s most iconic landmarks in one frame. Try to time your visit with the bridge lift times to capture the bridge in its fully raised position. The bridge is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for night photography.

• Location: Tower Bridge London
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The bridge is particularly beautiful at sunset and during the blue hour.

4. Liberty London

Liberty London, with its distinctive Tudor-revival architecture, might not make it into every London guidebook but it’s a must-visit spot for Instagrammers.

The store’s floral displays, especially during the spring and summer months, are particularly photogenic. The interior of the store is also impressive, with its atriums, wood paneling, and a vast selection of goods. And if you have some more energy left, go explore the different floors of the store. Each floor has its own separate photo opportunities.

• Location: Liberty London, Regent St., Carnaby, London W1B 5AH, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the area is less crowded. The store is beautifully lit during the Christmas season, making it a great spot for holiday-themed photos.

5. Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market, with its ornate roof structure and cobbled floors, is an intriguing backdrop for Instagram photos.

The market’s vibrant atmosphere adds to its charm. The market dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest in London, making it a great spot for history buffs. The market is covered, making it a great spot for photography even on rainy days. Don’t forget to explore the different stalls in the market, each offering different photo opportunities.

• Location: Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the market is less crowded. The market is beautifully lit during the Christmas season, making it a great spot for holiday-themed photos.

6. Notting Hill – King’s Road

Notting Hill’s King’s Road, with its colorful houses and charming vibe, is another great spot for an Instagram photo.

The area’s vibrant atmosphere adds to its appeal. The pastel-colored houses, often adorned with blooming flowers, make for a picturesque backdrop. The area is also known for its antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. Don’t forget to visit the Portobello Road Market, which is particularly vibrant on Saturdays.

• Location: King’s Road, London, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the streets are less crowded. The houses are particularly beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

7. The Churchill Arms

The Churchill Arms with its vibrant floral displays will definitely make a statement on your Instagram feed.

The pub’s traditional British charm adds to its appeal. The Churchill Arms is known for its extensive floral displays, which change with the seasons. The interior of the pub is equally charming, with its cozy atmosphere and traditional decor. The pub also serves traditional Thai food, so you can grab a bite while capturing your photos.

• Location: The Churchill Arms, 119 Kensington Church St, Kensington, London W8 7LN, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the pub is less crowded. The floral displays are particularly beautiful in the spring and summer months.

8. Kynance Mews

You may not have heard of Kynance Mews but this hidden gem, with its charming houses and cobblestone streets, is a great subject for a photo.

The mews is particularly beautiful in the autumn when the ivy covering the houses turns a vibrant red. The mews is tucked away in Kensington and offers a quiet respite from the bustling city. The cobblestone streets, ivy-covered houses, and charming details make it a perfect spot for Instagram photos. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, which is full of charming houses and quiet streets.

• Location: Kynance Mews, Kensington, London, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the light is soft and golden. The mews is particularly beautiful in the autumn when the ivy turns a vibrant red.

9. Peggy Porschen

Peggy Porschen, a charming bakery in Belgravia, is known for its pastel pink exterior and beautiful floral displays.

It makes for a fantastic spot to capture Instagram-worthy photos of delectable cakes and pastries in a beautiful setting. The bakery is particularly famous for its cupcakes, which are as photogenic as they are delicious. The exterior of the bakery changes with the seasons, meaning that if you return to London, you’ll be able to get a seasonal shot every time.

• Location: 116 Ebury St, London SW1W 9QQ, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the bakery is less crowded. The bakery is particularly beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.

10. St Pancras International

The stunning Victorian architecture of St Pancras International Station is a must-visit for any budding Instagrammer.

The station’s grandeur and historical charm make it a great backdrop for photos, especially if you and your followers like trains and historic stations. The station is home to the Eurostar, connecting London with mainland Europe, adding a cosmopolitan vibe to the place. Don’t forget to explore the interior of the station, which is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

• Location: St Pancras, Euston Rd, Kings Cross, London N1C 4QP, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the station is less crowded. The station is beautifully lit during the Christmas season, making it a great spot for holiday-themed photos.

11. Lewisham Micro-Library

The Lewisham Micro-Library, a phonebooth converted into a little library filled with books, is an unassuming spot for a unique take on the stereotypical London phonebooth photo.

The library’s quirky charm and community spirit add to its appeal. The library operates on a trust basis, with locals donating and borrowing books freely. The library is a testament to the community spirit in Lewisham and makes for a charming photo spot.

• Location: Lewisham Micro-Library, 199-201 Lewisham High St, London SE13 6LG, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the light is soft and golden. The library is particularly charming in the autumn when the surrounding trees turn a vibrant red.

12. Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, two of London’s most iconic landmarks, offer numerous angles for capturing stunning photos. It might be cliche to include them but I can’t imagine a putting together a photo guide to London without them.

One of the best spots is from the southwest end of Westminster Bridge, where you can frame the Houses of Parliament within the archway. The area is particularly beautiful at night when the buildings are illuminated, reflecting on the River Thames. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, which is home to other landmarks such as Westminster Abbey and the London Eye.

• Location: Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the light is soft and golden. The buildings are beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for night photography.

13. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum stands out with stunning architecture and vast collection of specimens that all cry out to be the subject of a photo.

While it might not be the most unique spot on your London photo tour, the museum’s grandeur and historical charm more than make up for it. The museum’s Hintze Hall, with its blue whale skeleton, is particularly impressive. If you’re looking to pack as much in as possible, consider booking a guided tour of each of the different galleries in the museum, each offering its own photo opportunities.

• Location: Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the museum is less crowded. The museum is beautifully lit during the Christmas season, making it a great spot for holiday-themed photos.

14. The View from The Shard

The tallest building in London, The Shard, offers breathtaking views of the city. The viewing platform, known as the View from The Shard, is a must-visit spot for Instagrammers.

The platform offers a 360-degree view of the city, making it a great spot for capturing panoramic shots of London. The Shard is also home to the Mandarin Oriental hotel along with several restaurants and bars, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view.

• Location: The Shard, 32 London Bridge St, London SE19SG, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions. The Shard is particularly beautiful at sunset and during the blue hour.

15. Battersea Power Station

Battersea Power Station has an iconic four-chimney layout that makes some great photos, especially when it’s lit up at night.

The surrounding area adds to the charm with modern developments and the River Thames. The power station is currently undergoing redevelopment, with new shops, restaurants, and public spaces opening up. The area is particularly beautiful at night when the power station and the surrounding buildings are illuminated.

• Location: Battersea Power Station, 188 Kirtling St, London SW8 5BN, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the area is less crowded. The power station is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for night photography.

16. Portobello Road Market

Portobello Road Market, located in the heart of Notting Hill, is a vibrant and bustling spot that’s perfect for taking funky Instagram photos.

The market is known for its antiques, vintage fashion, and street food. The market stretches over two miles, with hundreds of stalls selling a variety of goods. The colorful houses lining the street add to the charm of the market. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, which is home to charming houses and quiet streets. If your Instagram has more of a hipster vibe, you won’t want to miss this spot.

• Location: Portobello Road Market, Portobello Rd, London, UK
• Best Times: Saturday mornings when the market is in full swing. The market is particularly vibrant during the Notting Hill Carnival, which takes place in August.

17. The Peep Show Sign at La Bodega Negra

La Bodega Negra, a Mexican restaurant in Soho, is known for its peep show sign.

The sign, a nod to the area’s past as London’s red light district, is the subject of many visitors’ Instagram photos. In fact, the restaurant is located in a former sex shop, adding to its quirky charm. The interior of the restaurant, with its rustic decor and mood lighting, is also worth checking out. While you’re there, don’t forget to try the restaurant’s delicious tacos and margaritas.

• Location: La Bodega Negra, 9 Old Compton St, Soho, London W1D 5JF, UK
• Best Times: Evening when the sign is lit up. The restaurant is particularly vibrant on Friday and Saturday nights.

18. Hill Garden & Pergola in Hampstead Heath

The Hill Garden & Pergola in Hampstead Heath is a hidden gem.

The pergola, with its overgrown vines, Georgian arbor, and stunning views of the city, is worth the trek north of the city for a photoshoot or just to explore.

The pergola was built in the early 20th century as a setting for extravagant parties. Today, it’s a quiet and peaceful spot that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll through nature with plenty of nooks and crannies for an Instagram shot. The garden is particularly beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom and in the autumn when the leaves turn a vibrant red.

• Location: Hill Garden & Pergola, The Pergola, Inverforth Cl, London NW3 7EX, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The garden is particularly beautiful in the

19. Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station

King’s Cross train station boasts the entrance to Platform 9 ¾ where Harry Potter boards the Hogwarts Express.

The trolley disappearing into the wall is a must-visit spot for Harry Potter fans and Instagrammers alike. The spot is located in the station’s western departures concourse and is marked with a sign and a luggage trolley. Don’t forget to visit the Harry Potter shop next to it, which sells a variety of Harry Potter merchandise.

• Location: Platform 9 ¾, King’s Cross Station, Euston Rd, Kings Cross, London N1 9AL, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the station is less crowded. The spot is particularly busy during the school holidays.

20. The London Eye

The London Eye, one of London’s most iconic landmarks, offers stunning views of the city and is a great activity with a special somebody.

The capsules provide a slowly shifting vantage point for capturing Instagram-worthy photos of the London skyline. However, the London Eye isn’t just a great place to shoot from, it also makes for a fun subject particularly at night when the city is illuminated. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, other landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are just down the street.

• Location: The London Eye, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the light is soft and golden. The London Eye is particularly beautiful at sunset and during the blue hour.

21. Street Art in Shoreditch

Shoreditch, known for its vibrant street art, is where you’ll find some of the most elaborate murals in all of London.

The area’s graffiti-covered walls are a unique and colorful backdrop for photos. The street art in Shoreditch is constantly changing, with new pieces appearing regularly. Don’t forget to explore the area’s vintage shops, boutiques, and cafes while you’re there or plan a night out. The area is particularly vibrant on Sundays when the Brick Lane Market is in full swing.

• Location: Shoreditch, London, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the streets are less crowded. The street art is particularly vibrant on sunny days when the colors really pop.

22. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market, a Sunday street market in East London, is a vibrant and bustling spot where you’ll find almost everyone stopping to take a photo.

The market is especially known for its wide variety of flowers and plants. The market is a riot of color and fragrance, with stalls selling everything from traditional English roses to exotic orchids. The surrounding area is also one of London’s most charming neighborhoods, home to many independent shops and cafes.

• Location: Columbia Road Flower Market, Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG, UK
• Best Times: Sunday mornings when the market is in full swing. The market is particularly vibrant in the spring and summer months when the flowers are in bloom.

23. Brick Lane

Brick Lane houses a row of vintage shops and a multicultural food scene.

The area’s vibrant atmosphere and colorful street art add to its appeal. The street is known for its curry houses, bagel shops, and vintage markets. Don’t forget to explore the Truman Brewery, a former brewery that now houses a variety of shops, galleries, and food stalls.

• Location: Brick Lane, London, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the streets are less crowded. The area is particularly vibrant on Sundays when the Brick Lane Market is in full swing.

24. Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park, one of London’s Royal Parks, offers stunning views of the city from a bucolic, Insta-perfect setting. The park’s historic landmarks and beautiful gardens are almost designed specifically to help you make the perfect Instagram photos.

While admission to Greenwich Park itself is free, you’ll probably want to check out the Royal Observatory, the Meridian Line, and the National Maritime Museum, which the park is home to, so be sure to grab a ticket ahead of time and skip the line. The park is particularly beautiful in the spring when the flowers are in bloom and in the autumn when the leaves turn a vibrant red.

• Location: Greenwich Park, London SE10 8QY, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The park is particularly beautiful in the spring and autumn.

25. The Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sarkis, located in Greenwich near Greenwich Park, is another unique spot for Instagram photos.

The ship’s impressive structure and maritime charm add to its appeal. The ship is located in a dry dock, allowing visitors to walk underneath and admire its hull. The ship is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for night photography. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding area, which is home to other maritime landmarks such as the National Maritime Museum and the Old Royal Naval College.

• Location: The Cutty Sark, King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 9HT, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening when the area is less crowded. The ship is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for night photography.

26. Camden Market

Camden Market is known for its eclectic mix of stalls selling vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and street food.

The market’s bustling atmosphere and interesting offerings add to its appeal. It’s located along the Regent’s Canal adding some interesting potential angles for shots. The surrounding area is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and music venues which are also worth checking out.

• Location: Camden Market, Camden Lock Pl, Camden Town, London NW1 8AF, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the market is less crowded. The market is particularly vibrant on weekends.

27. Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill, located on the northern side of Regent’s Park, offers panoramic views of London that should make most of your followers scrolling their Instagram feed pause and double tap.

These stunning vistas are a popular spot for picnics and are often bustling with locals and tourists alike. The surrounding area is home to a variety of charming houses and quiet streets, adding to its appeal. While there, don’t miss Regent’s Park, home to the London Zoo and the Queen Mary’s Rose Garden, just around the corner.

• Location: Primrose Hill, London, UK
• Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden. The hill is particularly beautiful at sunset.

28. The Radio Rooftop Bar at ME London Hotel

The Radio Rooftop Bar at ME London Hotel offers breathtaking views of London. The bar’s chic decor and stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for Instagram photos.

The bar is located on the 10th floor of the hotel, offering panoramic views of the city. It serves a variety of cocktails and small plates, so you can enjoy a drink or a bite while taking in the view and snapping plenty of photos for the followers back at home.

• Location: Radio Rooftop Bar, 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA, United Kingdom
• Best Times: Early evening when the bar opens or late at night when the city lights are twinkling.

29. The Winter Garden at The Landmark London

The Winter Garden at The Landmark London features a stunning eight-story glass atrium and palm trees that make for an almost tropical backdrop for photos in a decidedly not tropical city.

The garden’s tropical vibe and luxurious decor add to its appeal. The Winter Garden serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, so you can enjoy a meal while capturing your photos. Don’t forget to explore the rest of the hotel, which is known for its luxurious rooms and suites.

• Location: The Landmark London, 222 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 6JQ, UK
• Best Times: Mid-morning or early evening when the light is soft and golden.

30. The Rooftop St. James

The Rooftop St. James at The Trafalgar St. James, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, offers stunning views of London. With chic decor and panoramic vistas on offer, the rooftop bar also serves up a variety of cocktails and small plates, so you can enjoy a drink or a bite while taking in the view. If you’re looking for a stylish place to stay in London on points, you could do worse than this address where Hilton Honors MyWay Benefits for Hilton Diamonds includes a complimentary continental breakfast.

• Location: The Trafalgar St. James, 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s, London SW1A 2TS, UK
• Best Times: Early evening when the bar opens or late at night when the city lights are twinkling.

Bottom Line

London, with its iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and hidden gems, offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning Instagram photos. Whether you’re a seasoned Instagrammer or a newbie looking for inspiration, this guide to the 30 best photo spots in London will help you discover the city’s most Instagrammable locations.

Grab your camera, hit the streets, and start exploring the best photo spots in London.

What do you think of our list? Do you have any spots to add? Let us know!