The best photographs often come from above street level. Whether it’s a rooftop, hilltop or helicopter ride, there’s nothing like a panoramic city picture to stand out from the crowd. Here are London’s top spots to take an above-average above street-level snap.
Most galleries charge an entry fee, but the displays of contemporary art and the 360-degree views from the 10th-floor rooftop are free at the riverside Tate Modern. Almost as popular for its vistas as it is for its artwork, the gallery is home to some of the most striking views of the London skyline. Pick an afternoon with blue skies for the ultimate snap.
The London Eye is one of the city’s most beloved tourist attractions. The iconic observation wheel also known as the Millennium Wheel is 135 metres high and offers stunning photographic access to all the city’s iconic landmarks. For about £27, snap iconic shots of the city skyline or use a zoom lens to grab close-ups of prominent sights like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.
In the upmarket area of Primrose Hill, high-end delis and trendy boutiques sit side-by-side with elegant tea rooms and contemporary gastropubs. But the neighbourhood’s peaceful hilltop park is where the photo opportunities lie. From the park’s crest you’ll discover viewpoints of Regent’s Park set against a backdrop of central London beyond.
You can find Sushisamba restaurants across the globe, but the venue with the most striking photo opportunity is London’s Liverpool Street venue. The glitz is loud, the glamour is sky-high and the views are simply dazzling. Floor to ceiling glass windows—and an elegant outdoor terrace—ensure even the most amateur photographer can turn out impressive results.
Welcome to London’s highest public garden. The three-storey public space sits atop a skyscraper and offers uninterrupted views across London. The busiest time of day is the afternoon, so we advise visiting when it opens (7am) or at night—the Sky Garden is open until 1am Wednesday to Saturday—when the crowds are minimal and the city lights sparkle, making for a unique city photograph.
With the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, you won’t need years of training to take beautiful photos. Advanced, compact and with a brand new interface, you’ll be able to capture the iconic landmarks of London’s city skyline with the click of a button.
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