To the casual traveller, London can seem a tad daunting. There's loads to explore in a city as big as this, including endless bars and restaurants, and many different ways to get about (don't even get us started on the maze that is Bank station).
But we locals are passionate about our hometown, so have handily put together a guide to 11 famous landmarks in London for you to visit on your next adventure into the capital.
Best London Landmarks To Visit
1. Nelson's Column At Trafalgar Square
- Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN
Not just a place to admire the soaring statue, regal lions and grand surrounding buildings, or to congregate when England wins the footie, Nelson's Column at Trafalgar Square is a welcome bit of open space in the capital.
This is also a great base to start your day of exploring in the city, as it's close to Charing Cross station and nearby attractions like the National Portrait Gallery. The charming Christmas market is worth checking out too, plus take our advice and don't be too blasé with your food, the pigeons might have other ideas.
Observe famous London landmarks to visit from Trafalgar Square.
2. The London Eye
- Riverside Building, County Hall, SE1 7PB
Standing proud along the River Thames since 2000, The London Eye is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel and hugely popular among tourists. A standard ticket starts from £29 per person, with fast track options available.
Once you
board one of the 32 pods, you'll head skywards and enjoy unrivalled
360° panoramas for a leisurely 30 minutes. As for the sights?
Expect all the greats, including as far as Alexandra Palace and
Wembley Stadium.
We've found the best landmarks in London. Fact.
3. Tower Of London
- London, EC3N 4AB
When you think of the capital, chances are this royal palace is high up your list. The historic fortress, touted as one of the top 10 famous landmarks in London, is known for housing glittering crown jewels and its protectors: the Beefeaters AKA Yeoman Warders.
From Guy Fawkes to Anne Boleyn, the Tower of London's past is a fascinating journey through time and we think it's one of the most interesting landmark buildings in London.
Spend the weekend in the company of an impressive castle.
4. Westminster Abbey
- Dean's Yard, SW1P 3PA
It's pretty difficult to summarise a thousand years of history in just a few sentences, so you'll need to trust us when we say Westminster Abbey is an integral part of your sightseeing itinerary.
This noble church, a World Heritage Site, has made a name for itself with the recent royal weddings, funerals and coronations. Seeking quirky London landmarks facts? Britain's oldest door can be found inside.
What is the most famous London landmark? They don't come more spectacular than this, that's for sure.
5. The Gherkin
- 30 St Mary Axe, City of London, London EC3A 8BF
Once you've done pretending you're on The Apprentice? Swing by this 180-metre-tall skyscraper, built in 2001. This is one of the most iconic buildings in the London skyline, thanks to its distinctive shape and pattern.
The Gherkin is home to an array of offices alongside a seriously swanky restaurant and bar Searcy's, boasting incredible lofty views. Also, the lifts can travel at speeds of up to six metres per second; handy if you're short on time.
Who said you need a famous London landmarks map? This one can be seen for miles around.
6. Shakespeare's Globe
- 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Having been around since 1598, it's safe to say that Shakespeare's Globe is one of the top 10 famous landmarks in London. The capital's world-renowned playhouse welcomes over 1.25 million guests a year, showcasing concerts, pop-ups, special events and, of course, works by the bard himself.
The gorgeous Globe Theatre auditorium is in the open-air and
performances take place whatever the weather (so, better pack your
jumper). You can nab standing tickets for as little as £10 each,
and Swan Bar and Restaurant is right outside the main stage for a
bite to eat afterwards.
Become a culture vulture and then relax with a drink in hand at The Globe.
7. Buckingham Palace
- London, SW1A 1AA
No trip to London is complete without ogling at the King's gaff. We've all seen it on TV: think changing of the guard, national celebrations and the London Marathon finale. If you fancy peeking inside Buckingham Palace, the artefact-filled State Rooms are open for ten weeks during the summer, but tickets get snapped up very quickly.
There are a whopping 775 rooms in the opulent palace, including 19 state rooms, 52 bedrooms, 188 staff rooms and 78 bathrooms. It might make you a little dissatisfied with your own home afterwards, but it's well worth a visit.
Charlie, let us pop over for a tea.
8. Tower Bridge
- Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UP
Black Eyed Peas' Fergie may have got it wrong, but this is indeed Tower Bridge. Bag a ticket to the glass-floored, high-level walkways for a unique experience, or watch in awe as magnificent tall ships pass through.
This historic structure dates back to 1886, though it wasn't finished until 1894, demonstrating the intricacy of the design. Top tip: if you go on a train to Blackfriars, or simply cross over on foot, you'll get a decent Instagram shot.
Constantly listed in the top 20 London landmarks, this one is a beauty alright.
9. Big Ben
- London, SW1A 0AA
If you've lost your watch, just look up. Big Ben at The Elizabeth Tower is probably one of the most recognised clocks on the planet. It has seen six monarchs and 41 prime ministers since building finished, plus did you know you can go inside?
Climb 334 steps up a winding spiral stairwell and you can go behind the actual dial. Damn cool, huh? Tickets are released on the second Wednesday of every month, but be warned, they sell out fast.
Let the chimes sing.
10. The Shard
- 32 London Bridge Street, SE1 9SG
One of the newer landmarks on our list, The Shard has permanently altered London's skyline since its opening in 2009. This is the tallest building in the whole of the UK, flaunting a striking exterior and some of the best views of all time from inside.
Head to their viewing platform for the ultimate photo opportunity, costing £28.50 per person to visit. There are also multiple bars and restaurants inside, as well as the iconic Shangri-La Hotel.
This sky-high building certainly does stand out.
11. St Paul's Cathedral
- St. Paul's Churchyard, City of London, EC4M 8AD
For a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, make a beeline for this spectacular gem. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul’s Cathedral has survived World Wars and still stands as a place of worship to quietly reflect.
Martin Luther King once gave a sermon here, plus The Whispering Gallery is definitely one to tick off the list. They host free daily services that anyone is welcome to attend, while sightseeing tickets cost £26 per adult, or £10 for kids.
This cathedral is one of the most impressive in the country.
After London landmark buildings that are a little weird? Check out our guide to unusual attractions.
