London, the city where there’s so much diversity yet everything seems to fit together in harmony. At every corner, you are surprised by something unique and beautiful. With its typical red telephone boxes and buses to its well-known skyline that includes the famous Big Ben and London Eye, it is a photographer’s paradise!
In my opinion, London is probably one of the most Instagramable European cities I know. After having visited London several times, I’ve compiled my own list of the Most Instagramable Places in London with maps included!
1. St Paul’s Cathedral and One New Change
“This dome that has dominated the London Skyline for so long is regarded by many to be the most beautiful in the world.” – Marianne Butler
St Paul is one of London’s main icons. Finished in the 18th century, it represents all of the old architecture in London. This glass alleyway of the shopping centre One New Change enhances the beauty of St Paul’s as it is reflected onto the glass walls, creating an original depth for a great shot!
You can also take the lift up to the rooftop of the One New Change shopping centre to get an even more impressive view on St Paul’s dome and the city!
Instagram Pic Tip: Don’t be afraid to get on your knees to get a low angle!
2. Camden Town
When in London, Camden Market is the place to buy souvenirs, stylish clothes, and even grab the new trends. Characterised by it’s vibrant and colourful houses, it is the perfect place for the Instagram shot you are looking for! Make sure to head here near lunchtime as they have a variety of food choices. You can choose from loads of international food stands and plenty of coffee shops.
Insta Pic Tip: There are plenty of trendy coffee shops for you to go in and snap some cool pics!
3. Neal’s Yard
Located off the beaten track, near Covent Garden, Neal’s Yard is a small place specialized in organic and vegan shops.
What makes it so special? Its colourful houses and calm atmosphere is an obvious contrast to the busy city of London.
4. Picadilly Circus
With its flashing lights and hustle and bustle, it is London’s equivalent to Times Square in New York.
Insta Pic Tip: Wait around to catch an iconic red bus in the pic as it passes by! You can even try to get the light reflection in a car window to give the picture an original touch.
I do suggest going there at night instead not only will there be less people but the lights will stand out better and you can even take amazing long exposures.
5. Tower Bridge
This masterpiece, and well-known monument, has been in London’s skyline for over two centuries. It has such an amazing design that its an inevitable snap for Instagram. If you’re there at the right time, you’ll be able to see the bridge opening up in action.
Insta Pic Tip: Take a really unique picture of it from the Southbank in the modern buildings or with the City Hall located next to it, to get the contrast between the old and new architecture!
6. London Eye
One can’t go to London without riding the London Eye. You can get an amazing panoramic view from the top but make sure to book your tickets in advance as the queue may be very long.
Insta Pic Tip: You can get the perfect shot of the London Eye from the Victoria Bank. Try to get a long exposure shot of the London Eye in action at night or even a timelapse!
7. The City’s Old and New Architecture
Unlike many of Europe’s other big cities, London’s ancient and historic landmarks can be found right next to the city’s most recent office glass buildings and modern architecture.
This is the case with The Gherkin and the small Church of St Andrew Undershaft located right next to it as you can see on the photo above.
Insta Pic Tip: Use the unique contrast between modern buildings and historical landmarks to take a stunning picture!
8. Leadenhall Building (The Walkie Talkie)
Have you ever seen a building in such a unique shape? Built in 2014, the Leadenhall Building has been nicknamed “The Walkie Talkie” due to its similar shape. Not everyone welcomed it into the skyline because it is indeed an intriguing addition, but that’s what makes it stand out!
Insta Pic Tip: For the perfect photo, head onto the Tower Bridge, where you’ll get a good view of it.
9. Buckingham Palace
The official house of the Queen is indeed an Instagramable place. With its official Queen’s Guards guards, lovely architecture, and surrounding flowers, you will for sure get a banger shot.
10. The view from The Shard
Want an amazing view of the whole city of London? Then you have to head on over to the top of The Shard. The entrance is quite pricey starting at 25£ but once you get to the top, 200 meters from the ground, you’ll get one of the nicest views ever.
Now that you have London’s Most Instagramable spots in mind, grab your camera and go shoot! Make sure to share this article with your friends!