Hampstead Heath Ponds, London

Lonely PlanetSep 23

From well-known hilltop cityscapes to lesser-visited scenic viewpoints, gardens and rooftops, see London from the best angles with this guide.

One of London's best places to swim.

19 things in this story

St Paul’s CathedralPlace of worshipDome walkway offers city vistas from the Stone Gallery.
Tate ModernArts centreViewing Level offers sublime city views.
London EyeSightGlass capsules offer views of Parliament and Big Ben.
Millennium BridgeSightViews of Tate Modern and St Paul's Cathedral.
Primrose HillParkProtected viewpoint with sweeping city panorama.
Parliament HillSightSweeping views of the city, popular for picnics.
Hampstead Heath PondsSightOne of London's best places to swim.
The Garden at 120Garden15th-floor garden with views of Tower Bridge.
London Cable CarSightViews over the river, part of the transport network.
Sky GardenSightLondon's highest public garden with City views.
ArcelorMittal OrbitSightUK's largest sculpture with a 360-degree viewing platform.
King Henry’s MoundSightDirect view of St Paul’s Cathedral, 16km away.
The ShardSightWestern Europe's tallest building with city views.
One New ChangeSightRooftop terrace offers views of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Greenwich ParkParkHilltop views of the Queen's House and the Thames.
Waterloo BridgeTrain stationOutstanding views of the Thames, London Eye, and Parliament.
Alexandra PalaceSightHilltop location with panoramic views of London.
One Tree HillSightEpic views across south London to the city center.
Bussey Rooftop BarBarRooftop hangout with sunset views and pizza.

Hampstead Heath Ponds