Loved for its rich culture, vibrant food scene, abundant historic structures and fascinating tea culture, Britain’s capital city is one of our favourite destinations to explore. With over 300 languages, London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and its attractions are just as varied.
Looking for the perfect spot to create content on a girls trip, or is a visit to a historical monument, like St Paul’s Cathedral or St Dunstan-in-the-East, more your speed? In the city of London, you’re always spoilt for choice.
While we love London’s most popular attractions, there’s a lot more beauty to explore than Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. So, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most beautiful places in London worth visiting, even though some gems, like Sky Garden, couldn’t make the cut.
Anyway, here are 15 picturesque locations you can visit once you’re done shopping at Covent Garden:
1. Churchill Arms
Located on Kensington Church Street, Churchill Arms is pure Instagram gold. With an exterior covered in stunning flowers and an interior with vintage architecture, London’s most famous and colourful pub is a venue you need on your must-visit list. We also cannot ignore the mouth-watering Thai cuisine — from roast duck curry to pad kee-mao noodles, it’s all just perfect.
2. Big Ben
The House of Parliament's iconic clock tower, which first sounded in 1859, is one of London’s historic landmarks. The name only refers to the great hour bell but has become commonly associated with the whole clock tower. Stop by to explore one of London’s must-see attractions; you can also see real-time debates and political conversations at the House of Parliament.
3. Regents Park
Home to a gorgeous rose garden, open-air theatre, zoo and sports area, nothing screams self-care like a trip to Regents Park. It’s stunning, peaceful, entertaining and perfect for some reflection or exercise. With the largest outdoor sports area in London, you can enjoy some football, rugby or go for a run. You can also head to The Regent’s Bar & Kitchen to grab some food or find your way to Primrose Hill to enjoy stunning views of London. What more could you want?
4. Lancaster Road, Notting Hill
Littered with colourful streets, Notting Hill is a photographer's dream. From St. Lukes Mews to Portobello Road, Hillgate Place and Lancaster road, it’s undoubtedly the most aesthetically pleasant neighbourhood in the city. But let’s face it, Lancaster road takes the cake. The blue, the green, the purple — all bright, bold and colourful. It’s the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos, and we love it.
5. National Portrait Gallery
With one of the most extensive collections of portraits, the art gallery is characterised by dramatic architectural features, plenty of natural light and exhibitions throughout the year. Transcend time with a visit to the museum accompanied by friends and family.
6. The Shard
Popular amongst luxury seekers and high-end travellers, London’s tallest tower is home to work offices, high-end restaurants and a Shangri-la hotel. Head here for a stunning 360-degree view of the city and you’d probably never want to leave the city again. Unsurprisingly, the Shard is popular for proposals and anniversaries. The view at sunset? Sensational.
7. London Eye
Located on the South Bank, the massive Ferris wheel offers one of the best views of London and some of its most iconic landmarks, like The Tate Museum, Elizabeth Clock Tower (Big Ben), Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. The attraction also moves slowly, and tickets allow for complete flexibility — you don’t need to commit to a date and time in advance when booking through the site.
8. Barbican Conservatory
Situated in the Barbican complex, the second biggest conservatory in London is home to thousands of plant species. The breathtaking indoor rainforest is a plant lover’s sanctuary. Think lush greenery, free sightseeing and modern designs.
9. Leadenhall Market, City
Leadenhall Market is a breathtaking indoor historical market with very impressive architecture. With the impeccable design, stunning ceilings and eclectic alleys, it’s no surprise it made an appearance in not one but two Harry Potter films. It features numerous restaurants, bars and shops with lots to eat and drink. Stop by a market stall (on a weekday) for some food, jewellery or art.
10. Kew Gardens
The UNESCO World Heritage Site features London’s most extensive collection of flower species. With a lifetime of photo opportunities, its aesthetic appeal is one every traveller should experience.
11. Somerset House
Formerly a significant meeting ground for the upper-class, the luxurious arts centre houses a plethora of fascinating modern art from across the globe. With magnificent architecture and an insane collection of world-class art, it gives other galleries a run for their money. It is used majorly for exhibitions, conferences and events.
12. Crossrail Place Roof Garden
Located in London’s financial hub Canary Wharf, the Crossrail Place Roof Garden is a stunning rooftop garden you can’t miss. Head over for its distinct street food market and enjoy shows in the amphitheatre.
13. Natural History Museum
Featuring animal, fossil, mineral and rock specimens and a stunning interior, the history museum is a perfect mix of architecture and history. Its most beautiful hall, Hintze Hall, is one to be marvelled at — with a blue whale skeleton hanging from the top, an impressive stone staircase and a large historic collection. The museum is even prettier in winter.
14. Leake Street, Waterloo
Shortly after British street art icon Banksy held the Cans Festival in 2008, the once grimy tunnel became one of London’s most superb and colourful art streets. Numerous artists now showcase their work on the graffiti tunnel, ensuring that no two visits are similar.
15. Sea Life London Aquarium
The London Aquarium is home to striking creatures and extensive marine life. With a glass bridge, through which you can see the sharks, coupled with spectacular views of penguins, octopuses, crocodiles and turtles, it’s the perfect attraction for both tourists and locals.
