Six Must-Shoot Perspectives in London: The Beauty of Old and New Architecture Blending Together

By MOOK Scenic Spots / Mofei
 
London is the capital of the United Kingdom and the largest city in Europe, located in the Thames River basin. The historic core of London, the City of London, still maintains its medieval boundaries. Moreover, London is ranked among the world's three major global metropolises alongside New York and Hong Kong, and it is also the city with the highest number of international visitors globally. Its famous attractions include Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Piccadilly Circus, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Trafalgar Square, and The Shard; London is also home to numerous museums, galleries, libraries, sports, and other cultural institutions, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, Tate Modern, the British Library, and 40 West End theatres.

1. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a tall iron bridge spanning the Thames River, where you can go up the towers to learn about its construction history and overlook the entire riverside. On the right bank of the Thames, near the Golden Hinde, there is an open-air plaza where citizens picnic, date, and enjoy the sunshine on sunny days. From this angle, you can admire and photograph the bridge without any obstructions. When you have time, why not bring some beer and hang out with a few friends here?

2. HMS Belfast
The HMS Belfast, equipped with four triple main gun turrets—twelve 6-inch caliber guns at the bow and stern—is the largest light cruiser built by the Royal Navy. This ship served with distinction during World War II. After being decommissioned, it was opened to the public in a dock upstream on the Thames. Visitors can get up close to this piece of history on the deck, and the contrast with the surrounding modern riverside buildings creates a sense of time displacement.

3. The Shard
30 St Mary Axe, located in London’s financial district, is a skyscraper nicknamed “The Gherkin” or “The Shard,” with its official name being the Swiss Re Building. It is one of the key features of London’s skyline. From the nearby SKY GARDEN, you can see the full view of the Shard and capture perspectives you’d never get from street level.

4.SKY GARDEN
Sky Garden London is a highly popular attraction in London. The high-rise observation deck by the Thames is free to the public, but you need to book a time slot in advance on the official website and obtain a ticket before entry. Inside the sky garden, the all-glass structure ensures excellent natural lighting, turning the rooftop into a giant greenhouse. In addition to enjoying the indoor space, you can also take in the panoramic views of central London.