Sometimes life in London can be so chaotic that our only glimpse of the fabled sunset is on our weary commute home – but let’s put an end to that, shall we? We've searched high (and well, even higher) for the prettiest spots with views of the evening rays. From skyscrapers and rooftop bars to hilltop parklands, here are the 13 best places to see the sunset in London for that Instagram-worthy golden hour glow.
The View From The Shard
For unbeatable 360° scenes of the city’s spectacular skyline, check out The View from The Shard. Being 800ft off the ground, this is undeniably one of the best platforms to take in the sweeping vistas as the sun descends. But that's not all, since the venue is also home Shangri-La's sushi spot GŎNG and Aqua Shard Bar, which offer enticing menus of signature cocktails, bubbles and food to enjoy with a jaw-dropping backdrop.
Feel on top of the world at one of the capital's tallest skyscrapers.
Tate Modern
After a cultural day admiring the artistry that adorns the Tate Modern’s walls, finish with something spectacular. Ascend to the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building and relish in a sight as stunning as the artwork the gallery is so famous for, with birds-eye views as far as Canary Wharf. This space is also home to a bar, so you can even enjoy the Insta-worthy vistas with a tipple in tow.
This is definitely a great choice for catching the sunset.
Primrose Hill
Head for the hills and you’ll be privy to one of the capital’s classic locations for a warm, summer evening under the suns afterglow. Once you've braved the short but steep climb to the Primrose Hill sunset viewpoint, reward your efforts with a couple of tinnies while admiring the glorious cityscape as the sky sets ablaze.
Sip on a bev or two at The Queen's later in the evening after checking out what might be the best place for a sunset in London.
Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace is more than just an events space - it’s also one of the highest points in London. As you can imagine, that makes for a truly incredible spot to catch the dying embers of the sun on a summers night. Take the steps down from the iconic building to lie in the luscious grass and admire the colourful skyscape, or head to the massive beer garden for drinks with a view. Once dusk begins to settle, make your way to The Starting Gate for craft beers, delicious wines and some classic pub grub.
Alexandra Palace's sunset is the stuff of Instagram dreams.
Sky Garden
At the top of the Walkie Talkie building, you’ll meet the aptly named Sky Garden. Incredibly, entry is free of charge, but if you fancy being bougie, then you can hang around for a delightful drink at one of the bars. Feel on top of the world with a cocktail in hand as you watch the sun melt behind the city’s landmarks. If you're wondering where to watch the sunset in London, this is it. We recommend booking in advance as this one’s pretty popular.
The Sky Garden is hands down one of the most romantic places to watch the sunset in London.
The Cutty Sark
Visit the renowned ship that once travelled the globe for an unrivalled viewpoint of the humble sunset. If you’d rather relax with a pint, then make for The Cutty Sark. With three floors, there’s plenty of seating to watch the daylight settle over the River Thames in peace. However, you can also sit outside to revel in it all while watching the boats and swans glide past.
Head to the historic pub for a gorgeous evening.
Bussey Rooftop Bar
Bussey Rooftop Bar is bringing us a sunset to be reckoned with. Found rubbing shoulders with the clouds over in Peckham, this joint boasts foliage-adorned pergolas, glowing fairy lights and vintage-style carpets, not to mention killer panoramas. Mosey on over to watch the sundown with a freshly prepared pizza in one hand and a cracking cocktail in the other.
Pay a visit to Bussey Rooftop Bar for dreamy views of the skyline.
Gaucho Tower Bridge
There’s no denying that the sights of London from Tower Bridge are terrifically humbling; the close-up view of the city’s most remarkable landmarks descending into darkness is enough to make anyone’s knees tremble. And close by, you’ll find a picturesque setting to enjoy a bite to eat while you bask in the glow of the heavens transforming above you; Gaucho. Pop over for a glamorous evening indulging in Argentian steak and wine.
Meat, wine and beautiful horizons... What more could you want?
Richmond Hill
Over at Richmond Hill, you can take in the panoramic views of the hazy orange sky met by the verdant grove below as the Thames shimmers on. Although beware; there is one helluva hill to walk up to get there - but it's well worth the trip. The landscape is so beautiful that it's the only British landscape protected by an act of parliament.
After catching the Richmond Park sunset, finish the day with a delicious meal out.
Skylark Roof Garden
Ah, Skylark Roof Garden. Found 10
floors above West London, this lush space totes stunning scenes
across the city, including Little Venice, Notting Hill and The
Shard, making for one helluva sunset spot. Make your way over to
this incredibly sought-after hangout to indulge in things like
stone bass ceviche, elevated
burgers (literally) and burratina di Puglia, all
while the day turns to night.
This is definitely up there as one of the best places to watch the sunset in the UK.
Searcys At The Gherkin
Way up high on the 40th-floor dome is Searcys At The Gherkin's Iris Bar - a jaw-dropping drinking destination that sees visitors on eye level with some of the city's most impressive buildings. Marvel as the sunset seeps through the surrounding triangular glass and lights up the room with warm hues of red and orange, and get your lips around cocktails equally as gorgeous. On the menu? Blissful Spritz, made with raspberry and blackberry-infused gin.
The 40th-floor Iris bar is not to be missed.
SUSHISAMBA
What could be more divine than watching the sunset on a spectacular terrace completed with a structural orange tree? Spread across the 39th floor of the Heron Tower in Bishopsgate, SUSHISAMBA is not only a fabulous dining destination for all things nigiri but also a prime spot to drink in the evening that offers 360-degree views of the city. Complete your evening with signature serves lime the lemongrass and lime leaf flavoured Tom Yam, or the vodka and Mio sparkling sake-based Sake Spritz.
Embrace the natural elements on this stunning terrace.
Horizon 22
Did someone say free viewing platform? Horizon 22 most certainly did. Shoot up in a lift that only takes 41 seconds to get to the towering platform at 22 Bishopsgate and soak up spectacular 300-degree views of the Thames, The Shard, St Paul's Cathedral and so much more. The 254-metre platform is the tallest free public viewing gallery in Europe, so don't miss out on catching the sun going down from this prime destination.
Something good is on the horizon at this stunning spot.
On the lookout for more ways to spend your days? Then check out these fun things to do by the water here and sign up to our newsletter.
