The UK capital is a gorgeous and eye-catching city, so of course, you can find Instagrammable places in London at every turn. What’s difficult, however, is curating a unique photo that stands out from the countless others on your feed.
That’s what I wanted to achieve in this article. I hope to not only share the iconic London spots for Instagram photos, but I want to share some hidden gems that you may not have seen before. I also want to challenge you to get creative with your angles, bringing a whole new perspective that will wow your audience.
We’ve done the leg work along with some help from our friends on the ‘gram, to bring you 35 of the best and most interesting Instagram spots in London.
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35 London Instagram Spots for Unique Photos In London
1. Notting Hill
Our first London Instagram spot needs little introduction. With its vibrant annual street festival and Hollywood movie of the same name, Notting Hill is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in London.
It’s the pastel-coloured houses, however, that send all influencers and photographers into a tizzy, and you can see why. These stunning colours will brighten up even the dullest of feeds.
By all means, snap away but I must ask that you remain respectful. Try to avoid standing on the steps or sitting on walls outside the property, or you could experience the wrath of a true Londoner.
2. The Churchill Arms
Another picturesque spot in Notting Hill is the gorgeous Churchill Arms Pub. Adorned in what’s said to be £30,000 worth of flowers, and filled with Churchill memorabilia it’s one of the top places to visit in London.
Not to mention one of the most photogenic pubs in all of the city. Stop by one afternoon or evening for a photo, and afterwards indulge in some delicious Thai food and a pint of real ale!
3. Natural History Museum
Our 3rd Instagrammable place in London is the National History Museum. Often considered to be the best of its kind in the world, this top London Museum never fails to blow my mind.
The wonderful thing about museums in London is that many are completely free to enter. So if you’re travelling to London on a budget, it’s the ideal activity.
You’ll love experimenting with different shots at the National History Museum but our favourite angle is the one pictured below. You will need to use a wide-angle lens to fit the stairway and skeleton in.
4. Baker Street Tube Station
We stumbled upon this next photo opportunity by accident, but don’t you agree it looks pretty awesome? You’ll need someone who can take the photo for you on the platform opposite (or do a clever photoshop job as we did).
Either way, you’ll most certainly want to avoid peak hours. To catch the train in motion, the timing has to be perfect and you’ll need a slower shutter speed for the motion blur effect.
5. Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is London’s answer to Times Square. Albeit anticlimactic when compared to the NYC hub, it’s a great atmosphere all the same.
Featuring all things iconic to London such as underground signs, red phone boxes, and red double-decker buses, it’s the perfect spot for an Instagram photo.
Being one of Londons most popular tourist attractions this place is busy and alive. Expect to find street performers, great food, catchy music, and at night the place lights up from the neon displays. Again this is a busy spot in London, so avoid peak hours.
6. Oxford Street
Everybody knows that London is one of the fashion capitals of the world, so if you’re looking to glam up your wardrobe, Oxford Street is the place to do it.
Not only is Oxford Street a fashionista’s dream, though, but a photographers dream as well. Especially at Christmas time when the iconic shopping street is adorned in lights.
You’ll also get bonus points if you can capture a red bus in the frame!
7. Covent Garden
If you’re visiting London, you’re bound to end up in Covent Garden at one point or another. This vibrant spot is home to pubs, bars, shops, restaurants, and all kinds of entertainment.
Regardless of when you visit, it’s always bustling with people, but during the Summer is when you can truly appreciate the London vibe.
What’s more, throughout the year Covent Garden hosts all kinds of events and one-off installations, that draw in the crowds with their attractability. Click here to see what’s on.
8. Neal’s Yard
Another worthy Instagram Spot in Covent Garden is Neals Yard. Tucked away down a back street, Neals Yard is a hidden gem and one of London’s most colourful and photogenic streets.
Lined with quaint boutiques and trendy restaurants, the cobbled ally is full of character and a great spot to hang out as well as to take photos.
9. Big Ben from Parliament Square
Two iconic London figures in one photo – Big Ben and a red telephone box. You won’t want to miss this iconic spot which is beautiful at any time of day.
As you can imagine, this area gets super busy. It’s also very popular with photographers so we recommend you arrive early in the morning or at night.
By using a long exposure at night, you can capture a mesmerising scene with the car lights which looks exceptionally cool.
Save Money with a London Pass
Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a London Pass in advance. The Pass allows free access to many attractions and unlocks tons of discounts around the city.
Reserve your Pass10. Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament
Big Ben (which is the name of the bell, not of the tower) and the Houses of Parliament are considered to be national treasures of London. So capturing them both in one frame is a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss.
To capture the angle below, cross over Westminster Bridge and follow the steps down to the right. You’ll find this perfectly framed archway with Big Ben in the background. Framing in photography is a great way to make your shots look professional and eye-catching!
It gets especially busy here during sunset golden hour as the sun starts to set behind the building.
11. London Eye from across the River Thames
Next up, walk along the Thames towards the famous London Eye. Located on the South Bank of the River Thames, the wheel is one of the most recognisable structures amid the London cityscape and provides unrivalled views over our beloved city.
To reach this instagrammable place in London you’ll need to cross over the river. Also, note that this area goes into the shade by the afternoon, so if you would prefer a sunnier shot you’ll need to get there in the morning.
*If you plan on riding the London Eye, book your tickets in advance to make this experience more enjoyable.
12. London Eye with Red Telephone Boxes
Another winning combination – the London Eye alongside two red telephone boxes. You’ll find this spot just a short walk along the Thames from our previous location above.
Walk back towards Big Ben and you can’t miss this picture-perfect Instagram spot that screams all things London.
*The London Eye makes for an awesome shot at night too. Using a long exposure will capture the illuminated wheel in motion, resulting in quite the dynamic shot.
13. Millennium Bridge
Next up is one of the most famous spots for London photography and it’s easy to see why.
The Millennium Bridge sits just an 8-minute walk from the London Eye and it’s a pedestrian-only steel suspension bridge. Many people claim to feel the bridge shake if there are many people on it at the same time, so it’s quite a unique experience.
This famous London Bridge gets super busy, so we recommend you arrive early in the morning or even better at night when the bridge is lit up. Don’t you agree it makes for a striking photo with St Pauls Cathedral in the background?
14. St Paul’s Cathedral
St Pauls Cathedral is another of London’s leading sightseeing attractions. A building steeped in history, you can’t leave the big smoke without snagging a photo or 2.
This jaw-dropping cathedral sits on legate hill, the highest point of London, offering stunning panoramic views from the top. For quite some time, the cathedral was the tallest building in all of London. Its dome is unmistakable amidst the city skyline.
You can capture the cathedral from many angles. However, our favourite has to be the one seen below. Located just a short walk from the Millennium Bridge, the striking reflections from the glass at both sides make for a truly interesting photo.
15. Leadenhall Market
Our next spot is this cobbled street marketplace located in the heart of the city. Leadenhall Market inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosophers stone, so it’s an absolute must-visit for all potter-heads.
Every time I walk through Leadenhall, I pray that a wand store will magically appear, and I’ll finally be the witch I’ve always wanted to be. But so far, no such luck.
Potter Fan or not, this picturesque place is not to be missed for its striking symmetry and ornate Victorian style. You can see why it’s considered one of the most instagrammable places in London.
You’ll need your wide-angle lens for this shot below.
16. Saint Dunstan in the East Church Garden
Our next stop is somewhat of a hidden gem in London, but it’s always been one of my favourite places to escape the hustle and bustle. What was once a Church of England Parish Church, now lays in ruins following an att@ck during WWII.
The ruins are now a secluded public garden, and the range of plants wending their way around the remains makes for an enchanting scene. A popular place for wedding photographers and music videos.
17. Sky Garden
Sky Garden is Londons highest public garden offering stunning City views in a beautiful urban jungle. It’s without a doubt one of the most idyllic and photogenic spots in the whole of London making it a popular Instagram hot spot.
The top floor has a restaurant where you can enjoy food and cocktails with live music.
Although it’s free to enter the Sky Garden, you need to book tickets to enter. I recommend doing so a few weeks in advance as it is a very popular place.
18. Coppa Club Igloos
Our next location is a trendy hang out, acclaimed restaurant, and a beautiful London hotspot all wrapped up into one.
Concepts like this are just one of the reasons I love London so much. Who wouldn’t want to dine in one of these cosy igloos with a striking view of Tower Bridge?
At Coppa Club, the food and cocktail menu is enough to get the mouth-watering, and then you have these innovative igloos to enjoy them in!
You won’t want to miss this place but remember to book your igloo at least a few in advance. You can book your tickets here.
19. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is a defining landmark in London and there are a couple of great shots to be had here.
For the first, head toward the famous Girl and Dolphin statue on the north side of the River Thames. Along this side, you will capture the best backdrop of Tower Bridge with a view of The Shard in the distance.
It’s an especially stunning spot for sunset when a plethora of colours grace the sky. That’s if it’s not raining of course.
20. On Tower Bridge
Another great angle of Tower Bridge is to get directly on to it like our friend Ellie below. We love how this angle creates a dynamic and unique shot, don’t you?
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
21. Lewisham Library Phone Booth
Did you know Londons smallest library was set in a red telephone box? How very ‘London’ of us!
The Lewisham Library Phone Booth is somewhat of a hidden gem on the outskirts of the city and for sure one of London’s most unique Instagram spots.
You can find this cute book exchange near St Johns Station where you can create a cute and quirky photo. You can read about the history of the Lewisham Book exchange telephone box here.
22. Kew Gardens
When it comes to nature photography in London, you do not want to miss Kew Gardens.
Home to the “largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections in the world”, you could spend all day here capturing beautiful and vibrant photos for your Instagram feed.
Kew Gardens is located in Richmond, so you will have to travel a little outside of the city to get there, but it’s totally worth the journey.
23. Mayfield Lavender Fields
Next up on our list of London Instagram spots is the jaw-dropping Mayfield Lavender Fields.
During the peak months of June-August, the entire sprawling fields are adorned in purple lavender. It’s unusual to find anything like this close to Central London, so the 1-hour journey to Banstead is well worth it.
It’s advised to check the website in advance of visiting, as they are not open to the public all year round. The weather can also influence the bloom of the lavender, so again, you’ll want to check this before you go.
How cool is this red phone box in the middle of the fields though?
24. Tumbling Phone Boxes
The red telephone box is iconic to London, so it’s no wonder that we see them pop up around the city in unique and creative ways.
We absolutely love this masterpiece by David Mach, which sees 12 red phone boxes topple like dominoes.
The work of art named’ out of order’ is in Kingston – South West London, so it’s a little outside of the city centre. But you know what they say, ‘do it for the gram!
25. Platform 9 and 3/4
Consider yourself a Harry Potter fan? Well, then you’ll be in your element in London! There are numerous spots around the city that inspired certain scenes from the films.
The most famous spot, however, is undoubtedly Platform 9 and 3/4 that’s located in Kings Cross Station. You can get a fun photo at this famous London Instagram spot, but be prepared to queue.
Tip – *Consider yourself a Harry Potter fanatic? Check out this best-selling Harry Potter guided walking tour and trace the footsteps of your favourite witches and wizards around Muggle London.
26. Peepshow Sign
Our next instagrammable place in London could easily be mistaken for a strip bar, when in fact, it’s actually a Mexican restaurant.
Set in Soho, the famous restaurant ‘La Bodega Negra’ has several neon signs in its windows, attracting photographers and influencers alike. A great marketing tactic if you ask me!
27. London Christmas Lights
Oh London, you are so pretty! Especially during the festive months when the realm of striking Christmas lights adorn the streets. Oxford Street and Regent Street are especially picturesque, or get yourself to Winter Wonderland for some festive fun!!
28. Gods Own Junkyard
Number 28 on our list is Gods Own Junkyard. And no, this isn’t where God throws out his trash.
This is a psychedelic paradise of funky neon lights and vintage signs, which is quite literally my idea of heaven!
If you like all things neon, you won’t want to miss this warehouse in London where you are sure to snag a creative photo or 2.
It’s free to enter but only opens on the weekends and it might cost you a small fortune to walk away with a sign.
29. Peggy Porschen Cakes
Another foodie spot that’s been savvy with its marketing tactics is Peggy Porschen cakes in Chelsea.
I mean, it’s genius. Design an instagrammable shopfront, see the customers come rolling in, and then get them to do all the marketing for you.
As well as being a photo hotspot, this chic bakery sells a variety of creative cupcakes, fancy cakes and other sweet treats. The food is almost as instagrammable as the store itself.
30. Little Venice
Although not far from the bustling city centre, Little Venice is a peaceful and stunning oasis that makes you forget you’re in a city at all.
All kinds of narrowboats, tour boats and water cafés line the stretch of canal, with the famous Little Venice mansions providing a stunning backdrop.
You’ll also find various unique businesses on the waterfront, such as a floating art gallery, a hotel boat, and the Canal Cafe Theatre.
31. Shoreditch Street Art
When it comes to photogenic in London, Shoreditch is up there with the best.
Shoreditch is one of London’s most trendy and happening neighbourhoods. It’s most famous for its arty culture, diverse culinary & nightlife scenes, antique markets and hipster vibe.
Truth be told, it’s one of my favourite spots in the city. I know you’re going to love all the photo opportunities that Shoreditch provides.
32. NHow Hotel London
Let’s not forget about Instagrammable hotels in London, because there are plenty of them as well.
First on my list is the nHow hotel in Islington. With its vibrant and funky decor throughout the property, it is sure to send any photographer or influencer into a tizzy. Check availability & rates here.
33. Maddox Gallery
Maddox is a modern & contemporary art gallery in London. Featuring work by the likes of Banksy and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as various emerging artists, it’s a must-visit for art lovers.
What makes this particular art gallery stand out, however, is the themed storefront. They update the storefront regularly, each time with a new and eye-catching theme.
With creative ideas like the one featured below, it’s no wonder that Maddox gallery is a famous London Instagram spot.
34. Underground Sign Picadilly Circus
Tell me you’re in London, without telling me that you’re in London.
That’s precisely what you can achieve with a photo like this one below. The London underground sign is recognised worldwide and is just as iconic as red phone boxes and Big Ben.
Though, I recommend planning a shot like this one outside of peak hours. Otherwise, it’s likely you will not have a fun, nor successful, experience.
35. The Exhibitionist Hotel London
For our final instagrammable place in London, we are heading to another hotel, and this time it’s the Exhibitionist hotel in Kensington.
As the name suggests, everything about this hotel is designed to be a show-stopper. From the beautifully restored 18th-century townhouse and its contemporary decor to the artistic guestrooms and lavish bar area.
While a little on the pricey side, any photographer would dream of staying at this boutique hotel. The only trouble is, they may never want to leave! Check availability & rates here.
Responsible Photography in London
Often when you travel, you see things that completely blow your mind, It’s natural to want to take photos. However, please keep in mind the following basic rules of street photography:
- Respect historical and memorial sights
- Don’t climb on sacred buildings or structures
- Take care of your safety at all times
- Do it for the ‘gram does not apply if it seems unsafe in any way
- Be friendly – A smile goes a long way
- Respect the privacy of your subjects
- If somebody is irritated by the camera, put it away.
- If you’re asked to delete an image, do so.
- Check out our guide on responsible travel
If you have any questions about how we took these shots, feel free to ask in the comments below. You can check out our photography gear here.
Enjoy London Instagram Spots
Well, that concludes our list of Instagram spots in London. I hope this has given you some inspiration for your upcoming trip.
If you have any questions or feedback, let us know. You can reach out to us in the comment section below or through our contact us page.
Planning a trip to the UK? Check out our other articles to help plan your trip.
London Essential Info
With London being such a vibrant and exciting city, you’ll find it difficult not to have an incredible time. However, the tips and tricks below can help you make the very best of your trip.
- Save money on public transport, attractions, and restaurants with a London Pass.
- Book a hotel or hostel here or check out these best air bnbs in London.
- Stay connected in London with a portable wifi hotspot or a local sim card.
- Get to know the city on a best-selling London tour.
- Don’t forget travel insurance!
Where to Stay in London
It’s no secret that London is an expensive city. So while staying in central London is ideal for sightseeing, it’s not going to be your most budget-friendly option.
Thankfully, London’s public transport network is one of the best in the world. This means you can stay on the outskirts of London, and be able to reach the city centre quickly and easily.
You can compare hotels in here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
Enjoy London Instagram Spots
Well, that concludes our list of Instagram spots in London. I hope this has given you some inspiration for your upcoming trip.
If you have any questions or feedback, let us know. You can reach out to us in the comment section below.
Stay adventurous & Happy travels.
Planning a trip to England? Check out our UK series to help with inspiration.
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4 Responses
Wow, what a great post and so many helpful tips about taking pictures in London! I have been there in 2018 during Christmas season to see the Christmas lights and was blown away. Need to go back to take more great pictures, there are still a lot of places on my list like the Natural History Museum.
Hi Alice, we are so happy to hear this! Thank you for your lovely comment. Oh yes, the natural history museum is a must, one of our favourites! ♥
This entire post is so educational and includes such helpful information and tips it would take me forever to find! The pictures have me wanting to see everything London has to offer!! Love this site ♥
Wow thank you for your kind comment! We are so happy you think so, thank you for being so supportive, it means so much to us ♥