14 Best Photo Spots In London
Searching for the perfect Instagram backdrop in the heart of London? From the iconic Big Ben to the hidden gems of Leadenhall Market, London offers a treasure trove of photogenic locations. But where are the absolute must-visit spots in London for capturing unforgettable images in 2024?
Whether you’re snapping selfies at Tower Bridge or chasing that golden hour glow in Hyde Park, you need locations that blend historic charm with modern flair. In this post, we’ll explore 15 best photo spots in London, covering everything from classic London landmarks photography to urban street art backdrops.
We’ll guide you through the best angles for capturing St. Paul’s Cathedral, show you how to avoid crowds at popular sites, and reveal some lesser-known London photo locations that’ll make your feed pop.
Discover 14 stunning London photo spots that’ll take your Instagram game to the next level in 2024!
1. Tower Bridge: Iconic Elegance
Details: Wide-angle shot capturing the entire bridge, soft natural lighting, person in foreground for scale.
Tower Bridge is an absolute must for your London photo album, darlings! This iconic landmark screams British charm and offers the perfect backdrop for a chic city snap. The contrast between the historic stone towers and the elegant blue suspension creates a captivating visual that’ll have your followers double-tapping in no time.
Best Photography Tips: Frame the bridge between nearby buildings or trees for added depth. Try shooting from different angles – the view from the riverside walkway is particularly stunning.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for soft light and fewer crowds, or at dusk for a magical golden hour glow.
Fashion Tips: Channel your inner royal with a sleek black coat and flowing locks. Pose sideways, glancing back at the camera for that candid city-explorer vibe.
2. Natural History Museum
Step into a world of wonder at the Natural History Museum, this stunning Victorian building is a total dream for architecture lovers. The grand entrance hall, with its soaring arches and intricate details, creates an absolutely magical atmosphere that’ll transport you straight into a fairytale.
Best Photography Tips: Use the stairs for leading lines, drawing the eye up to the beautiful ceiling. Play with symmetry by positioning yourself in the center of the frame.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds, or during golden hour when sunlight streams through the windows.
Fashion Tips: Go for sleek, monochromatic looks to contrast with the ornate surroundings or a bright color dress to stand out.
3. London Eye: Skyline Spectacular
Get ready for some serious #ViewGoals at the London Eye, this iconic Ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramas of the city that’ll make your feed pop. The contrast of the modern wheel against the historic skyline creates a perfect blend of old and new London that’s totally Instagram-worthy.
Best Photography Tips: Use the rule of thirds to position the Eye off-center for a more dynamic composition. Experiment with different angles – shooting from ground level can make it appear even more imposing.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting, or after dark to capture the wheel’s colorful illuminations.
Fashion Tips: Make a statement in bold, solid colors to stand out against the sky. A red outfit creates a striking contrast that’ll really make your pics pop.
4. Covent Garden: Whimsical Charm
Covent Garden is a total dream for the ‘gram’, this charming market hall transforms into a whimsical wonderland during the holidays. The adorable cloud decorations and twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for capturing the festive spirit of London.
Best Photography Tips: Use the balconies and staircases to add depth to your shots. The string lights create beautiful bokeh effects when slightly out of focus.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for empty shots of the decor, or evenings to capture the magical glow of the lights.
Fashion Tips: Embrace cozy chic with a chunky knit sweater and boots. Pose casually against the railing for that perfect “just wandering through” vibe.
5. Temperate House at Kew Gardens
This stunning Victorian glasshouse is an absolute dream for plant lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. The soaring glass ceilings and lush greenery create a magical oasis that feels worlds away from bustling London.
Best Photography Tips: Use the walkways and staircases to create leading lines through your image. The glass structure creates beautiful light patterns – experiment with capturing these on the plants below.
Best Time to Visit: Midday for the brightest natural light, or during “golden hour” for a warm, dreamy glow filtering through the glass.
Fashion Tips: Embrace botanical vibes with flowy, romantic pieces in white or soft pastels. A twirly skirt or dress looks amazing when captured mid-spin on the walkways!
6. Notting Hill
These candy-colored houses are the perfect backdrop for your London adventures. The mix of pastels creates a whimsical, fairy-tale vibe that’ll have your followers swooning. It’s like stepping into a real-life Wes Anderson film.
Best Photography Tips: Use the rule of thirds to position yourself off-center. Play with perspective by shooting from different angles along the street.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for soft light and fewer people, or during golden hour for a warm glow on the facades. Weekends tend to be the busiest time in the area.
Fashion Tips: Go for solid colors that pop against the pastel backdrop. A flowy dress or wide-leg pants create great movement for walking shots.
7. Hyde Park
Image Credit: @whitneys_wonderland
Talk about a slice of Italian romance in the heart of London! The Hyde Park in Kensington are pure magic, loves. With its ornate stonework and tranquil waters, it’s the perfect spot for channeling your inner princess. The contrast of the structured gardens against the natural pond is totally swoon-worthy.
Best Photography Tips: Use the balustrade to create leading lines. Play with reflections in the water for dreamy, ethereal shots.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting that’ll make the stonework glow.
Fashion Tips: Embrace romantic vibes with a flowy sundress. A bold pattern, like gingham, adds visual interest against the stone backdrop.
8. British Museum
The British Museum is an absolute must-see in London. That stunning glass ceiling is a total showstopper – it’s like being inside a giant, futuristic snowglobe. The contrast between the modern roof and the classical architecture below creates a seriously cool vibe that’s perfect for adding some edge to your feed.
Best Photography Tips: Use the circular shape of the building to create interesting compositions. Play with symmetry by positioning yourself in the center.
Best Time to Visit: Midday for the brightest natural light streaming through the glass ceiling.
Fashion Tips: Go for sleek, modern lines to complement the architecture. A pop of color against the white interior will make you stand out beautifully.
9. Leadenhall Market
This Victorian gem is bursting with charm – from its intricate ironwork to the twinkling lights and gorgeous floral displays. It’s the perfect blend of historic elegance and whimsical decor that’ll transport you straight into a fairy tale.
Best Photography Tips: Capture the arched ceilings to show the scale of the space. Use the lines of the walkway to create depth in your shots.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to capture the market empty, or during the day when it’s bustling with life.
Fashion Tips: Embrace vintage-inspired looks to match the Victorian vibe. A flowy dress with delicate prints would be absolutely dreamy here!
10. St. Paul’s Cathedral
This iconic landmark screams British history and architectural brilliance. The symmetrical facade with its grand columns and intricate details creates a jaw-dropping backdrop that’ll have your followers double-tapping in no time. It’s the perfect blend of grandeur and grace!
Best Photography Tips: Use the rule of thirds to position the cathedral slightly off-center. Capture the full height by stepping back across the street.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds, or during golden hour for a warm glow on the stone.
Fashion Tips: Go for a chic city look with a leather jacket and printed skirt. A casual turn towards the camera creates a candid, “exploring the city” vibe!
11. Millennium Bridge
The Millennium Bridge is a total dream for urban explorers, the sleek, modern walkway offers the most incredible views of St. Paul’s and the London skyline. It’s like walking on air above the Thames! The contrast of the contemporary bridge against the historic backdrop creates a perfect blend of old and new London that’s totally Insta-worthy.
Best Photography Tips: Use the bridge’s lines to create leading lines towards St. Paul’s. Experiment with different angles – shooting from one end of the bridge can create a vanishing point effect.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting that’ll make the metal structure gleam.
Fashion Tips: Opt for breezy, comfortable outfits perfect for a riverside stroll. Think flowy skirts or wide-leg pants that’ll catch the breeze beautifully!
12. Sky Garden
This lush, tropical paradise perched high above the city offers breathtaking 360-degree views of London. It’s like being in a chic, elevated greenhouse with the most spectacular backdrop. The contrast of lush greenery against the urban skyline creates a totally unique and gram-worthy atmosphere.
Best Photography Tips: Use the plants to frame the city views in the background. Play with depth of field to create dreamy, bokeh effects with the lights of the city.
Best Time to Visit: Just before sunset to capture the changing colors of the sky and the city lights coming to life.
Fashion Tips: Embrace sleek, city-chic vibes with a form-fitting dress and blazer combo. The neutral tones will pop beautifully against the greenery and city backdrop.
13. Neal’s Yard: Hidden Gem
Neal’s Yard is a total hidden treasure! This secret courtyard in Covent Garden is bursting with color and charm. The vibrant facades, quirky shops, and cozy cafes create a whimsical, fairy-tale vibe that feels worlds away from the busy London streets. It’s like stepping into a real-life kaleidoscope.
Best Photography Tips: Use the colorful buildings to create a frame within your shot. The wet cobblestones add beautiful reflections – use them to your advantage.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for empty streets, or just after a rain shower for those gorgeous reflections.
Fashion Tips: Have fun with color! A bright beret or statement coat will pop beautifully against the colorful backdrop. Don’t forget a cute umbrella for those rainy London days!
14. Piccadilly Circus: Neon Nights
Piccadilly Circus after dark is an absolute showstopper! The dazzling lights and larger-than-life billboards create an electric atmosphere that’s pure city magic. It’s like being in the heart of a futuristic movie set! The energy and buzz of this iconic intersection perfectly capture the excitement of London nightlife.
Best Photography Tips: Use a slower shutter speed to capture light trails from passing cars. Play with reflections in puddles or shiny surfaces for creative compositions.
Best Time to Visit: After sunset when the lights are at their brightest and the crowds are buzzing.
Fashion Tips: Go for sleek, nighttime glam with a cozy sweater and tailored trousers. The neutral palette will stand out beautifully against the colorful backdrop of lights!