Looking to level up your Instagram game with photos from your London visit? Well, be assured that you’ve come to the right spot to spot the most Instagrammable spots in London. From hidden gems like Little Venice to iconic landmarks like The Tower Bridge, your photos will do all the talking.
Like every city, London has a personality of its own and so do its visitors. So grab your camera as we take you through 12 of London’s most Instagrammable spots!
1️⃣ The Tower Bridge
A true testament to Victorian engineering and design, the Tower Bridge is a must-see landmark when exploring London. A magnificent suspension bridge which has stood over River Thames since 1894, consisting of two towers and two walkways, it was designed to accommodate the increasing commercial traffic on the River Thames. Today, this iconic landmark receives a foot-fall of 40,000 people, every day.
Must-have shots: Introduce an instant wow-factor to your Instagram grid with a beautiful shot of the Tower Bridge. Here are a few photo angles you must try:
-
📸St. Katharine Docks: Frame your shot to include the vibrant boats and charming waterfront, showcasing the bridge in all its glory.
📸Traffic island: Frame your shot to include the iconic bridge in the background and use the traffic lights and movements as dynamic elements to add depth to your picture.
📸Dolphin statue: Frame your shot to highlight the intricate details of the statue, with the majestic Tower Bridge in the background.
Pro tip - Take this shot when there is ample natural light which will enhance the colors and textures of the statue.
Pro tip: Avoid the photobombers by getting there early in the morning! Capture a mesmerizing shot of the bridge in the golden hour light. Don’t forget to explore the Tower Bridge itself, to learn of its history, walk on the glass floor, and admire stunning views of the city of London.
2️⃣ Neal’s Yard
A hidden gem in the heart of London, Neal’s Yard is an alleyway that exudes a vibrant and bohemian atmosphere. Tucked away in Covent Garden, Neal’s Yard is home to charming shops, quaint cafes, and street art; a haven of sorts for organic food lovers, health enthusiasts, and art aficionados.
Must-have shot: Known as one of Covent Garden’s most Instagrammable spots, the juxtaposition of different hues at Neal’s Yard is going to add a splash of vibrancy and color to your grid handle! Position yourself at an angle such that the multi-colors and architecture of the building can be captured in the background. Enhance the shot by including greenery and hanging pots on the building facades.
Pro tip: Like neighborhood, like cafes! Unwind at one of the many cafes, aesthetic in place and taste. Duck into Homeslice for a slice of pizza; St. John’s bakery for a doughnut; and Casanova & Daughters for a glass of wine, to wash down the cheese and sugary treats! If you’re a skincare enthusiast, check out Neal’s Yard Remedies for products that are organic and natural.
3️⃣ Churchill Arms
Pubs are synonymous with British night culture, so we bring to you Churchill Arms, one of London’s most photogenic pubs. Greeted by a stunning exterior adorned with flowers, step inside to a cozy interior filled with charming Churchill memorabilia to wet your whistle with their many craft beers!
Must-have shot: To capture a stunning photo for your instagram handle, stand at the street corner, towards Campden street from where you can capture the pub’s exterior covered in an explosion of flowers, against the pub’s traditional facade.
Pro tip: Visit Churchill arms during the summer/spring season to see the flowers in full bloom. For an authentic classic English experience, visit The Orangery (1.6 miles away), a delightful cafe serving traditional afternoon tea.
4️⃣ Notting Hill
If you’re thinking about the movie, yes, it’s the same location. Once home to posh Londoner families, today Notting Hill is a popular tourist destination of streets lined with vintage stores, boutique shops , and charming cafes.
Must-have shot: Head to Portobello Road, where you'll find the famous Notting Hill Bookshop. Strike a pose in front of this iconic bookstore, from the movie ‘Notting Hill’.
Pro tip: Venture off the beaten path and explore the narrow cobblestone streets of Notting Hill to discover the unexpected backdrop for your photos. Maybe a quaint doorway or a blooming flower display, let the charm of Notting Hill surprise you! Best time to visit would be early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
5️⃣ Camden Market
A visit to Camden Market promises a photo ops galore. Described as a melting pot of culture, fashion, music, and experiences, Camden Market is home to over 1000 shops to shop, eat, and drink. Get your phone set-up for some stunning shots for your gram!
Must-have shot: Capture a photo at the iconic Electric Ballroom, a music venue that has been at the heart of Camdem’s bustling community for 80 years. It has played host to a large variety of performers including Sir Paul McCartney, Alt-J, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, U2 and many more. The graffiti-covered facade is a representation of Camden’s alternative culture.
Pro tip: Unlike most landmarks, I suggest visiting Camden Market in the evening hours when the market is illuminated by colorful lights. Also, remember to try out the street food whilst here because there is something for everyone’s liking.
6️⃣ Kew Gardens
A botanical garden said to be ‘the world’s largest collection of living plants’ is an Instagrammable spot and you know why! From its lush greenery and vibrant flowers to its tranquil trails and picturesque landscapes, Kew Gardens is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site, since it houses many endangered species of plants.
Must-have shot: The Great Pagoda will make for a great Instagram photo. Post a recent restoration (in 2018), the Great Pagoda includes the 80 dragons which originally adorned the roofs, each carved from gilded wood. You can also capture some beautiful photos at the Japanese gardens, delicately manicured.
Pro tip: Visit Kew Gardens in the spring season to witness the blooming of the magnificent cherry blossom trees.
7️⃣ The Buckingham Palace
Official residence of the British monarch, Buckingham Palace is one of the most recognised landmarks around the world. With its grand architecture and lavish interiors, your photos are bound to be aesthetically pleasing. Did you know? Visitors are allowed access to parts of the palace such as the Throne Room, Queen Mary's Dolls room, Royal Mews and the Grand Staircase.
Must-have shot: How best to capture this grand residence? Stand right across the street from the palace’s main gate and capture the elegant facade with the iconic Queen Victoria Memorial in the foreground, a stunning juxtaposition of traditional and modern architecture.
Pro tip: If you aren’t an amateur photographer, here’s a great photo tip - capture the reflection of the Buckingham Palace in the Saint James’s Park Lake in the Saint James Park. Consider visiting here during the golden hour for a warm, soft lighting.
8️⃣ Clos Maggiore
Invariably named one of the most romantic restaurants in London, Clos Maggiore has a true gallic flair. This award-winning eatery with a notable wine-list, flower-filled conservatory and log fire is Instagrammable for its enchanting ambiance, exquisite cuisine, and unique decor.
Must-have shot: Head to the conservatory and capture the enchanting floral canopy, a signature feature of Clos Maggiore. You don’t need to do much here, the blooming flowers will do the magic!
Pro tip: Clos Maggiore tends to get busy, especially in the evenings and during the weekends. We highly recommend that you make reservations in advance.
9️⃣ The 9 ¾ Platform at King’s Cross
If you know, you know. Growing up watching every Hogwarts kid whizz through the walls of Platform 9 ¾, it’s your chance to do the same. The platform is actually situated between platforms 9 and 10, and you can find a trolley embedded in the wall, replicating the iconic scene from the movies.
Potterheads, all aboard the Hogwarts Express!
Must-have shot: Capture the magic by positioning yourself beside the trolley, leaning forward as if you're about to pass through the wall. This perspective creates an enchanting photo that transports viewers into the world of Harry Potter.
Pro tip: To avoid the hustle-bustle of large crowds, reach King’s Cross early in the morning or on weekdays. To add a touch of authenticity to the photo, carry your own wizarding props such as robe or scarf.
1️⃣0️⃣ The Coppa Club
Of the 5 Coppa Clubs in the UK, two are in London - one at St. Pauls with a great view of the cathedral and the other near Tower Bridge, with a perfect view of the Southbank skyline. which attracts Instagrammers. Inspired by the TV show ‘Friends’, the club features a 60’s style diner bar, decorated with classic items such as the jukebox and pinball machine.
Must-have shot: Infamous for its glass igloo-style seating, capture a shot of the bustling London streets from within the igloo. Another Instagram-worthy picture would be their Avocado Benedict, a visually stunning dish that you should NOT MISS!
Pro tip: Make reservations in advance and request for the glass igloo-seating. During the winter, the igloos are heated and even have sheepskin rugs for extra warmth. For the summers, request for an outdoor seating, which is also cozy.
1️⃣1️⃣ Southbank
Take a stroll along Southbank (beside the River Thames) and allow the city of London to surprise you. From street performers breathing fire to sand artists creating masterpieces on the shoreline, Southbank is the heart of London’s cultural scene.
Must-have shot: An Instagram grid is incomplete without a sunrise/sunset shot. Get yours at Southbank. Head to the London Millenium Bridge (1.1 miles away), face west towards St. Paul’s Cathedral and capture a perfect shot of the bridge, the cathedral, and the crimson skies of London. Another great shot is one with the London Eye as a focal point. For this shot head to Jubilee Gardens or across the river near Westminster Bridge.
Pro tip: The lighting is best typically around 30 minutes before the sunrise/sunset. If you’re taking a photo of the London Eye, consider a night shot when it is illuminated in all its glory.
1️⃣2️⃣ Little Venice
Tucked away within the busy city of London is the hidden gem which offers a respite with its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery. Little Venice is a series of tree-lined canals, where you can take a stroll along the waterways, admire the houseboats and maybe even enjoy an afternoon tea/brunch on a London houseboat.
Must-have shot: Since Little Venice is a hidden gem in London, any shot is Instagram-worthy. Either the colorful line-up of houseboats or their vibrant reflections in the water, capture anything that catches your fancy.
Pro tip: Help others find Little Venice. Start off at Warwick Avenue underground station, follow the signs leading up to Warwick Crescent Avenue. From there, explore the various paths winding through Little Venice and discover hidden nooks and crannies.
