London is a city with a rich and diverse history and community, reflected in its stunning and varied architecture.
History and modernity go hand in hand across the London landscape. Whether gracefully restored heritage buildings or valorous new forms that silhouette the London skyline, it is this rich architectural diversity that makes up the fabric of London.
From mediaeval churches to modern skyscrapers, the buildings that form the London skyline tell a story of the past, present and future of the capital while offering spectacular views! We climbed up London’s Monument so check out what we saw from there:
By 2030, London’s financial district, the City of London, will witness the emergence of 11 striking new skyscrapers, surpassing the height of current structures. The City of London Corporation reveals that 500,000 square metres of new office space are either approved or under construction, and an additional 500,000 square metres are proposed. These committed projects collectively match the size of approximately 70 football pitches.
In this post, we’ll delve into the intriguing history and background of London’s iconic buildings, ranking them from highest to lowest popularity based on the count of their social media followers.
Discover new insights about the London skyline and things to do that you may not have known of! Follow the LBN magazine and the buildings to not miss out on London offers!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
1. 20 Fenchurch St / The Walkie Talkie
20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie-Talkie, is a striking skyscraper in the heart of London’s financial district. Completed in 2014 and designed by Rafael Viñoly, the building is characterised by its unique concave shape.
It stands 160 metres tall with 38 floors and is notable for its Sky Garden at the top, offering panoramic views of London. It has gained attention for its solar glare issue, reflecting intense sunlight onto the streets below. It is a significant architectural landmark, contributing to the city’s skyline and offering a mix of office space, retail, and public amenities.
Reviews & Socials
4.7 out of 5 stars with 12,000+ reviews on Google, 228K Followers on Instagram.
Website & Contact
20fenchurchstreet.london, skygarden.london, skygarden@20fenchurchstreet.co.uk.
Access & Events
Sky Garden offers beautiful event spaces for a variety of occasions! The space is perched at the top of the iconic 20 Fenchurch Street. While tickets are free, they are released every Monday morning for three weeks in advance and disappear within hours. If you miss out on a free ticket, you can still access the views by booking a table at the Darwin Brasserie or Fenchurch Restaurant, or by visiting during their “walk-in” hours early in the morning (weekdays 10:00 – 11:00 am).
Location
20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF.
2. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a Grade I listed combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, built between 1886 and 1894. It crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and is one of the five London bridges owned and maintained by the City Bridge Foundation. The bridge is 800 feet (240 m) in length and consists of two 213-foot (65 m) bridge towers connected at the upper level by two horizontal walkways, and a central pair of bascules that can open to allow shipping.
Its construction was started in 1886 and took eight years to build. The bridge connected Iron Gate, on the north bank of the river, with Horselydown Lane, on the south – now known as Tower Bridge Approach and Tower Bridge Road, respectively.
Find the thrilling Glass Floor along its Walkway, which allows you to look directly down at the passing traffic and the Thames 42 metres below, while enjoying panoramic views of the Shard and the Tower of London.
Reviews & Socials
4.8 out of 5 stars with 180,000+ reviews on Google, 48K Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
towerbridge.org.uk, +44 (0)20 7403 3761
Access & Events
Discover what is happening at Tower Bridge. When you visit London’s iconic landmark, there’s a lot to learn. Access to the internal experience (Walkways and Engine Rooms) requires a paid ticket (~£13–£18). Lifts are available in both the Towers and the Engine Rooms for full accessibility. It is highly recommended to book online in advance to guarantee a slot, as it is one of London’s most visited attractions.
Location
Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP, United Kingdom.
3. St Paul’s Cathedral
The current St Paul’s Cathedral is the fourth to occupy the site, with the first dating back to 604 AD. The present cathedral was designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed its predecessor. Its construction began in 1675 and was completed in 1710.
The cathedral features a classical façade, a stunning dome which was influenced by St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, carvings, and sculptures.
It is a popular tourist attraction, welcoming visitors to explore its history, architecture, and cultural significance. It has been the venue for important events like Prince Charles’s and Lady Diana Spencer’s weddings.
St Paul’s Cathedral stands not only as a place of worship but as a living testament to London’s rich history, architectural brilliance, and cultural heritage.
Reviews & Socials
4.7 out of 5 stars with 55,000+ reviews on Google, 88K Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
stpauls.co.uk, +44(0)20 7246 8350
Access & Events
From special concerts to temporary art exhibitions, their What’s On page shows all the services and events happening at the Cathedral – and allows you to search and filter to find specific events. Visitors can access three different levels: the Whispering Gallery (internal), the Stone Gallery (lower external), and the Golden Gallery (the highest point), providing a breathtaking 360-degree view of the City and the Thames. Access to the viewing platforms is included in a standard sightseeing ticket (~£25-£27 for adults). While the Cathedral floor and Crypt are accessible via lift, the galleries are accessible by stairs only.
Location
St. Paul’s Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD, United Kingdom.
4. The Lloyd’s Building
The Lloyd’s Building, an architectural masterpiece in London’s financial district, is renowned for its distinctive design and innovative features.
Designed by architect Richard Rogers, the Lloyd’s Building is a pioneering example of Bowellism architecture, highlighting the exposure of structural and mechanical elements. The building was completed in 1986 and stands as an exemplar of the high-tech architectural style.
The facade of the building resembles the pipes of a massive organ, creating a visual spectacle and adding to the building’s distinct identity in the London skyline. One of the notable features is the external glass elevators that traverse the exterior of the building.
In 2011, the Lloyd’s Building received Grade I listed status. It is the youngest building to ever receive a Grade I listing. While there is no public “viewing platform,” a visit inside offers a look at the historic Lutine Bell, the Loss Books, and the stunning 18th-century Adam Room located on the 11th floor.
It stands as a beacon of architectural innovation, challenging traditional norms and setting new standards in the world of modern architecture.
Reviews & Socials
4.5 out of 5 stars with 700+ reviews on Google, 8K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
lloyds.com, tours@lloyds.com
Access & Events
Various social events are run but it’s primarily used for high-level insurance trading and ceremonial market events.
Location
1 Lime St, London EC3M 7HA, United Kingdom.
5. The Shard
Another striking building on the London skyline is The Shard in London Bridge. The Shard stands proud at 309.6 metres and is the tallest building in Britain and the seventh tallest in Europe.
Its glittering angled panes of glass reflect London’s skies from all over the capital. Its name derives from the scathing words of English Heritage, who deemed it ‘a shard of glass through the heart of historic London’.
The Shard was completed in March 2012 and is a mixed-use development containing homes, offices, a hotel, shops, restaurants, and bars. It also has a public observation deck on the 72nd floor, called The View from The Shard, which is one of London’s top attractions and offers breathtaking views of the city.
Its modern design and central location near London Bridge have solidified The Shard’s status as a symbol of contemporary London.
Reviews & Socials
4.6 out of 5 stars with 46,000+ reviews on Google, 115K Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
the-shard.com, theviewfromtheshard.com, +44(0)344 499 7222
Access & Events
The Shard has an official public viewing gallery and the highest point you can reach in the building. It offers unparalleled 360-degree views extending up to 40 miles. The experience includes an indoor gallery and an open-air “Skydeck” on the 72nd floor where you can hear the sounds of the city far below. It hosts “Silent Discos,” sunset sessions with DJs, and exclusive proposal packages. Entry requires a paid ticket. Prices usually start around £19 (special/off-peak) up to £32–£48 for all-inclusive packages. It is highly recommended to book a timed slot online in advance. Unlike the free galleries in the City, this is a premium, ticketed attraction. Alternatively, you can book a table at any of the bars and restaurants in the Shard.
Location
32 London Bridge St, London SE1 9SG, United Kingdom.
6. Horizon 22 (22 Bishopsgate)
The project replaces an earlier plan for a 288 m (945 ft) tower named The Pinnacle, on which construction was started in 2008 but suspended in 2012 following the Great Recession, with only the concrete core of the first seven storeys.
The structure was later subjected to a redesign, out of which it became known by its postal address, 22 Bishopsgate. It is the second tallest building in the United Kingdom The building is characterised by its tapering form, transitioning from a wider base to a narrower top. It is primarily designed for commercial use, providing office space for various businesses and organisations.
It represents a modern and dynamic addition to London’s skyline, blending functionality and sustainability to create a vibrant urban space in the heart of the city.
Reviews & Socials
4.8 out of 5 stars with 5,300+ reviews on Google, 24K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
22bishopsgate.com, horizon22.co.uk, hello22team@22bishopgate.com, enquiries@horizon22.co.uk
Access & Events
Experience yoga and more whenever special events are on. The space can be booked for exclusive private events and corporate hire with unmatched sunset backdrops. Entry to Horizon 22 is completely free, but you must book a timed ticket in advance via their website. Slots are released in batches and tend to go quickly, so plan at least a few weeks ahead.
Location
22 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AJ, United Kingdom.
7. The Leadenhall Building
The Leadenhall Building is a 224.5-metre-tall (738 ft) skyscraper in central London. It was opened in July 2014 and was known informally as ‘The Cheesegrater’ because of its distinctive wedge shape, similar to that of the kitchen utensil with the same name.
Designed by the architectural firm Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, The Leadenhall Building is characterised by its innovative and unconventional design.
Completed in 2014, the building stands out with its tapering shape, creating a unique and dynamic profile in the London skyline.
It has 48 floors and a total floor area of 908,730 sq ft and is mainly used as an office building, but it also has retail and restaurant spaces. A notable feature of the building is the public art installation titled “A Sculpture in the Sky” by artist Richard Wilson. This installation consists of a series of suspended steel and glass elements, creating an artistic focal point in the building’s atrium.
Reviews & Socials
4.6 out of 5 stars with 800+ reviews on Google, 9K Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
theleadenhallbuilding.com, +44 (0) 20 7220 8950
Access & Events
Leadenhall Live hosts a yearly lineup of exciting events which can be found on their what’s on page. While it does not have a dedicated public observation deck like its neighbours, its ground-floor “undercroft” is one of the most impressive public spaces in the City, soaring 30 metres high. It often hosts street food markets (like LED-Bites on Wednesdays) and art installations. For a high-level view, you must be attending a private event at Landing 42, the UK’s highest dedicated events space. The building occasionally participates in the Open House Festival in September, which is the only time the general public can access the upper floors for free via a ticket ballot.
Location
122 Leadenhall St, London EC3V 4AB, United Kingdom.
8. 30 St Mary Axe / The Gherkin
One of the most recognisable buildings on the London skyline is 30 St Mary Axe, also known as The Gherkin.
The bullet-shaped skyscraper with its diamond-shaped windows was built in 2003 by renowned British architect Norman Foster, and it can be spotted from as far as Windsor Great Park.
The distinctive ‘lens’ atop the Gherkin pays homage to an iconic glass dome which was on the ground floor of the original building and is now displayed at the National Maritime Museum. Its distinctive cylindrical shape and glass exterior contribute to its unique and recognisable silhouette on the London skyline.
The Gherkin is 180 metres tall and has 41 floors, mostly occupied by offices. It also has a restaurant and a bar on the top floor, offering panoramic views of the city.
Reviews & Socials
4.6 out of 5 stars with 5,900+ reviews on Google, 2,4K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
thegherkin.com, +44 (0)20 7071 5000
Access & Events
- Searcys at The Gherkin: Book lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea on the 39th floor for views across London.
- Iris Bar: Located in the top dome (40th floor), providing 360-degree views with cocktails.
- Open House London: An annual event where the building sometimes opens to the public (requires booking/ballot).
- Private Events: The building hosts corporate and private functions
Location
30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BF, United Kingdom.
9. London Tower 42
Today, Tower 42 accommodates a mix of offices, restaurants, and other businesses.
The tower is multi-tenanted and comprises Grade A office space and restaurant facilities, with restaurants on the 24th and 42nd floors. It was bought by South African businessman Nathan Kirsh in 2011.
The tower has a unique cantilevered floor plate design, starting at level 4, which allows for column-free spaces and flexible layouts. Its distinctiveness lies in its dark exterior and the triangular pinnacle that crowns the building, making it a notable feature in the London skyline. It is a hub for many events.
Reviews & Socials
4.3 out of 5 stars with 1,400+ reviews on Google, 1,4K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
tower42.com, +44 (0)20 7877 7720
Access & Events
There is a sophisticated Champagne Bar on the 42nd floor of the former NatWest Tower. There is no “viewing-only” ticket; you must book a table for drinks or snacks to enjoy the 270-degree panorama.
Location
Tower 42, 25 Old Broad St, London EC2N 1HN, United Kingdom.
10. The Monument to the Great Fire of London
For those who prefer a more historical climb, The Monument offers one of the most classic views of the City. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Dr. Robert Hooke, this 61-metre fluted Doric column commemorates the Great Fire of 1666.
It was once the tallest isolated stone column in the world and remains a favourite for those who enjoy the 311-step spiral staircase challenge, like our team:
Reviews & Socials
4.5 out of 5 stars with 14,000+ reviews on Google, 2,3K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
themonument.org.uk, 020 7626 2717
Access & Events
Often hosts historical educational tours and is a key stop for school groups learning about London’s history. This is a paid attraction (~£6 for adults). No pre-booking is required for individuals; you can buy tickets at the base. Note that there is no lift, so you must be prepared for the climb!
Location
Fish St Hill, London EC3R 8AH.
Top London Skyline Viewpoints
11. Lift 109 (Battersea Power Station)
A spectacular new addition to the South Bank, Lift 109 is a unique glass elevator experience housed inside one of the iconic chimneys of the restored Battersea Power Station. It whisks visitors 109 metres into the air for 360-degree panoramic views of London, including a stunning look at the River Thames and the US Embassy.
We took a ride and loved the views over London a bit further down the Thames from the main London Skyline:
Rating & Reviews
4.3 out of 5 stars with 2,300+ reviews on Google, 28K+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
lift109.co.uk, info@lift109.co.uk
Access & Events
The Power Station itself hosts massive events, while Lift 109 offers a multimedia exhibition about the building’s history before you ascend. Tickets are required (starting at approx. £15-£22). It is highly recommended to book online in advance, especially for weekend slots, as capacity in the lift is limited.
Location
Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW8 5BN.
12. The Lookout (8 Bishopsgate)
Quietly opening in 2023, The Lookout is a spectacular public viewing gallery on the 50th floor of 8 Bishopsgate. It offers a clear view of the “Eastern Cluster” of skyscrapers and looks directly over the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. It is often cited as a more peaceful alternative to the busier Sky Garden.
We obviously had to check out the views:
Reviews & Socials
4.7 out of 5 stars with 1K+ reviews on Google, 700+ Followers on Instagram
Website & Contact
8bishopsgate.com/lookout – check when booking slots become available or enquire via email.
Access & Events
The building features executive suites and event spaces available for high-end corporate hire. Entry is free but requires a pre-booked timed ticket. It is less famous than Horizon 22, so it is often easier to find last-minute availability here.
Location
8 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4BQ.
13. The Garden at 120
Unlike the enclosed Sky Garden, The Garden at 120 is an open-air roof terrace on the 15th floor of the Fen Court building. It features a beautifully landscaped garden with water features, fruit trees, and 360-degree views of the surrounding skyscrapers and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
A perfect spot for a casual lunch or a quiet moment, it is often used for seasonal “pop-up” bar experiences. This is one of the few platforms that does not require a booking for individuals. You can simply walk in and go through security. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making it the best spontaneous option in the City – just check the opening hours and weather of course!
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Reviews & Socials
The Garden at 120: 4.8 out of 5 stars with 7,500+ reviews on Google.
Website & Contact
thegardenat120.com, reception@120fenchurchstreet.com.
Location
120 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 5BA.
Conclusion
Each building contributes to a tapestry that tells the story of London’s economic prowess, cultural significance, and commitment to architectural innovation. The London skyline stands as a captivating testament to the city’s rich history, architectural diversity, and continuous evolution.
As the city grows and redefines itself, the skyline serves as a visual timeline, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity in this vibrant and ever-changing capital.
Have more London Skyline View recommendations? Get in touch with us!
Author Profile
- Online Media & PR Strategist
- As a London-based Chief Marketing Officer at the digital marketing agency ClickDo Ltd I blog regularly about London, lifestyle, technology, business and many more topics.
