15 London Landmarks You Need To Visit At Least Once
One of the things I love about London is that there’s always something new to discover. However, it’s also full of iconic landmarks and locations that everyone should see. So whether you’re visiting for the first time, or being a tourist in your own city, here are 15 London landmarks you must see on your next trip.
1. The Shard
The Shard is the UK’s tallest building, and has several restaurants and bars to try while enjoying the view of the London skyline. Alongside that, the View from the Shard hosts several events on the top floor, from yoga classes to silent discos.
Nearest tube station: London Bridge
2. Big Ben
Is it possible to go on a trip to London and never see London’s most famous clock tower? While you’re there, take a tour around the Houses of Parliament and nearby Westminster Abbey.
Nearest tube station: Westminster
3. The London Eye
If the Shard seems too high, get a view of the city from the London Eye! You can even book a private capsule, or add champagne or chocolate tasting to your experience.
Nearest tube station: Waterloo
4. Buckingham Palace
A must-do for any fan of the Royal Family. In the summer, you’re able to take a tour inside of the palace. Outside the summer months, you’ll always be able to see the outside, including the Changing of the Guards.
Nearest tube station: St. James’s Park
5. The Tower of London
The home of the Crown Jewels, and a vital piece of Britian’s history. Alongside tours, you can watch history be brought to life. For those interested in the Tower’s spookier history, a Twilight tour would be perfect.
Nearest tube station: Tower Hill
6. St Paul’s Cathedral
Nearest tube station: St. Paul’s
7. Royal Albert Hall
Not only is the Royal Albert Hall beautiful, but it holds a variety of events from concerts to comedy to ballet, and occasionally even sport, so there truly is something for everyone! Pop along to the Verdi Italian Kitchen for some good food and discover a new artist with their Free Friday Music.
Nearest tube stations: South Kensington, or Gloucester Road
8. London Stadium
The home of the London Olympics, and now the home of West Ham FC. You can take a tour, or you can have a look around the rest of the Olympic Park, including riding The Slide – the longest and tallest tunnel slide, where you can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour.
Nearest tube stations: Pudding Mill Lane, or Stratford
9. Globe Theatre
Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare or not, a trip to the Globe Theatre will always be worth it. Watch the age-old plays be re-imagined in new ways, or take a tour and find out what it was like, all for as little as £5!
Nearest tube station: London Bridge
10. Highgate Cemetery
Perfect for those in love with all things spooky, especially if you’re planning on visiting around Halloween! Highgate is home to Karl Marx, George Eliot and, supposedly, a vampire. While you’re free to roam as you please in the East Cemetery, the West is a guided tour only.
Nearest tube station: Archway
11. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is definitely an easy one to tick off your list – have lunch by Nelson’s Column. Got a bit more time? There’s often something going on, from pre-planned events to rallies and protests. If that’s not your thing, there’s plenty of museums and galleries around.
Nearest tube station: Charing Cross
12. Camden Market
Camden Market is always fun to visit, and has everything from vintage clothing to real leather notebooks to handmade jewellery. You’re always bound to find something there you’ll love.
Nearest tube station: Camden Town
13. Somerset House
There’s something going on every day at Somerset House, whether it’s a historical tour, art exhibitions or music. Head over in August to enjoy a variety of films at their open air cinema.
Nearest tube station: Temple
14. Royal Greenwich Observatory
Anyone who is even remotely interested in space should visit the observatory. Here, you can also stand on the Meridian line, where east meets west, or discover the heart of the sun in the Planetarium.
Nearest tube station: Cutty Sark
15. Primrose Hill
There’s no doubt that the view from Primrose Hill is gorgeous, and it’s perfect for a picnic in the summer. Take a walk down the hill and head into Regent’s Park to take in London’s more scenic setting, or visit the nearby shops and cafes.
Nearest tube stations: Swiss Cottage, or Chalk Farm Road
Know any other London landmarks people should visit? Let them know in the comments!
Featured image source: pinterest.com
