9 of the Most Instagrammable Places in London
Are you heading to foggy London town? London is full of pop-up adventures and trendy venues — such as the unmistakeable pink hotspot, Sketch, and the always delectable cocktail bar Dandelyan — but timeless London classics are worth a snap too. Grab your phone and hit these great London sights.
1. Neal's Yard
This alleyway through London's Covent Garden is a super-saturated, colorful wonderland. With an air of whimsy and magic, this is the perfect place to take some pictures and tuck away into a cozy café with a warm cup of tea. Pop into Neal's Yard Remedies for a selection of natural, organic health and beauty products, or pick up some artisanal cheeses at Neal's Yard Dairy. Enjoy the rich community vibe and dedication to eating whole and being well.
2. Leadenhall Market
If Victorian architecture is on your bucket list of sights to see, check out Leadenhall Market. This gorgeous covered market hosts a variety of lovely things to buy and taste, and is also (get ready for it) Harry Potter's famed Diagon Alley. Though you won't find the Ollivanders wand shop here, you can find your new favorite pen at Montblanc instead. For all of the right lighting and all of the best angles, take your phone to Leadenhall Market.
3. Westminster Bridge
Already one of the most iconic places to photograph, don't miss a shot of the Westminster Bridge. With views of Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye and the Thames, crossing the Westminster Bridge is part of the quintessential London experience. While the color of the bridge may not be the first thing you notice, the bridge was painted green to intentionally match the seats in the House of Commons. Watch the cityscape change as you cross and make sure to snap several photos of this storied bridge.
4. The London Eye
Across from Parliament is the London Eye, which is clearly a sight to behold in and of itself. Snap a photo of the massive wheel, but then (obviously) bring your phone with you on the ride. The views of London from the Eye are hard to beat because the 135-meter wheel whisks visitors away to heights that tower above the skyline. Upgrade to a private capsule or add a chocolate tasting to your London Eye experience for an unforgettable time.
5. Covent Garden
For a little West End adventure, check out Covent Garden. This is the primary theater and entertainment area of London with food and craft markets, little shops and boutiques, and high-end places to grab a bite before a show. Make sure to find out what's on during your visit; exhibits, galleries, shows and deals are easily found in Covent Garden. This district is bliss for thespians and spectators alike.
6. St. Paul's Cathedral
This Anglican cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London and the host church for the Diocese of London, but it's also a spectacular site to visit and admire. The church is beautiful from the outside, and stunning from the inside with its numerous murals, decorative dome, galleries and even a crypt. Take your camera and capture the splendor of this iconic London cathedral.
7. Primrose Hill
If you need a wee break from the booming metropolis, head to Primrose Hill for a stroll and a picnic. Located on the north end of Regent's Park, Primrose Hill is both an actual hill as well as a name for the region surrounding it. If you're up for it, take a trek to the top and enjoy the spectacular view of London — this panorama isn't something you can see from town.
8. Tower Bridge
For a relic of the industrial boom of the 19th century, check out Tower Bridge. Built between 1886 and 1894, this combination bascule and suspension bridge grants every passerby another iconic view of London. Don't forget that you can explore inside the bridge as well as simply cross over; if you're brave enough, you can even cross the glass floor.
9. Conservatory Archives
If you have a green thumb and a soft spot for botany, Conservatory Archives is the place to explore, rain or shine. This collection of indoor gardening wonders is a happy green reprieve from the grey and gold of London city, and is a lovely place to explore and take photos. If you're planning to plant roots (heh) in London, you can also hire consultants and purchase plants for your own indoor garden.