I’m on a mission to take better advantage of living in London. Less Netflix, more exploring. Especially when the weather is on side. Last weekend I revisited one of my favourite places that I haven’t been to in years – the Great Fire of London Monument. There are so many other good places scattered around the city with views just as impressive.
The monument to the great fire of London was built back in the 1670s to commemorate the Great Fire of London, which swept through the city in 1666. Christopher Wren & Robert Hooke collaborated on the fluted doric column design. The viewing platform at the top is £5 and 311 steps away.
The 95 storey skyscraper designed by Renzo Piano hosts London’s highest observation deck with breathtaking 360 degree views over the city. There’s an indoor viewing platform, outdoor ‘skydeck’ and a champagne bar. It’s definitely worth doing at least once. Note, tickets are cheaper when booked in advance.
The walkie-talkie, famous for melting cars and frying eggs, is another tall building with impressive city views. The glass domed roof encloses a landscaped garden, restaurant, brasserie, bar and an open-air terrace. And the best part? It’s completely free, you just need to book in advance.
I discovered this one via Instagram. The shopping destination has a sixth floor roof terrace open to the public, seven days a week. As well as a rooftop restaurant and bar, it’s got the best views of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
A tourist favourite. This giant Ferris wheel is a serious feat of engineering, offering some of the best views of London. I bought tickets to do this a couple of years ago with a friend, but she got lost on the underground. Oops.
This was on my London list for so long. I had heard that it’s overrated, but personally it was one of my favourite London experiences. We were ridiculously lucky with the timing, the sunset was stunning. The first part of the climb is relatively steep but manageable. For the descent, I suggest doing it backwards. Trust me.
The London skyline is visible in the distance from this corner of Hampstead Heath. I used to live nearby in Kentish Town and went here for weekend walks. Which reminds me, I haven’t been back in five years.
There are also a number of places on my London bucket list that allegedly combine two of my favourite things: food and views.
My friend went here earlier this year and his photos were unbelievable (to the point where they looked photoshopped). Located in the top levels of the Gerkin, the Helix restaurant serves contemporary food, while the Iris bar has an extensive cocktail menu.
Located on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, this restaurant covers all the bases – brunch, lunch, dinner and late night feasts. Open 24/7 literally, it is best known for it’s eponymous duck and waffle dish.
