Are you planning a trip to London and want to hit up ALL the popular photo spots? Keep scrolling to check out my list of the most Instagrammble places in London England!
This list of Instagrammable places in London England was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
London is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire world. Thanks to the many iconic landmarks and unique architecture it boasts, the entire place could definitely be considered one enormous Instagram spot.
If you’re currently planning a trip to London and want to make sure you get the best shots for your feed, you’ll love to know there are plenty of incredible photo spots all over the city.
These range from places where you’ll get the best angles to shoot major icons to smaller streets and hidden gems that truly capture London’s essence.
From gardens in the sky to medieval ruins and colorful alleys, here are some of the most Instagrammable spots in London you need to bring your camera to!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of London blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting London with kids.
Popular London Tours/Activities
- London Eye (this is a relaxing adventure where you can see a birdseye view of London)
- Double-Decker Bus Tour (this one has a 2-hour guided tour option)
- Harry Potter Walking Tour (this one is especially for families)
- WB Studios in London (this is a MUST-DO for any Harry Potter fan)
- Afternoon Tea (this one takes place on a vintage double-decker bus)
- Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable London photography option)
Kid-Friendly London Hotels
- Crowne Plaza London Kings Cross (this is right by Kings Cross Station, which is really convenient)
- The Clermont London (this is an easy walk to the London Eye and Buckingham Palace)
- Georgian House Hotel (this is perfect for Harry Potter fans)
The 29 Most Instagrammable Places in London Worth a Selfie
Big Ben
Big Ben is by far one of the most Instagrammable places in London. That’s because it’s one of the most iconic London landmarks.
My tip is to line up at the red telephone booth across the street. That way, you can get a shot with both the phone booth AND Big Ben. There’s always a line so you can’t miss it. You’ll definitely want a few of these Instagram photos.
We (possibly illegally) stood in the middle of the street to get the above photo. I mean, we were in the crosswalk and had a walk sign. If you want to get a similar shot, just be very mindful of the crosswalk sign and any vehicles that might not follow the rules.
Piccadilly Circus
The first time I went to Piccadilly Circus, it was like sensory overload. We were in a double-decker bus and the billboards were sparkling and buskers were performing on the streets. But it was SO cool!
Piccadilly Circus is a popular Instagram spot in London for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a bustling area in the heart of the city, known for its bright neon lights, billboards, and iconic Eros statue. These make great photo backdrops.
The area also has a rich history and is a well-known symbol of London. This makes it an essential stop for anyone looking to capture the essence of the city on their Instagram feed.
I suggest taking the time to walk around and get cool photos. But, safety can be an issue here. Just be sure to be aware of your surroundings.
King’s Cross Station
King’s Cross Station is a popular Instagrammable place in London for Harry Potter fans because it is the location of Platform 9 3/4. This is the fictional platform in the Harry Potter series where Hogwarts students catch the Hogwarts Express.
There is a dedicated photo spot at the station where fans can take pictures with a half-disappeared luggage trolley. It looks like it is going through the wall, recreating the iconic scene from the books and movies.
This area is also right next to the Harry Potter store called Platform 9 3/4 which also has some cool photo spots inside.
If your family are Potterheads (like us), I highly recommend this Harry Potter tour that meets at King’s Cross Station. Check the latest rates and availability.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
Kynance Mews
Kynance Mews is a small street in South Kensington that provides plenty of opportunities to shoot gorgeous pictures. The houses you’ll find here are absolutely gorgeous.
“Mews” are small alleys you’ll find all over London that were once used to house horses about a century ago. These days, they act as small streets, and the most Instagrammable places of them all is quite likely Kynance Mews.
As a tip, Kynance Mews gets blanketed in purple when wisteria streets bloom during the spring. So this is a must if you’re visiting London at this time of the year!
There are plenty of other Instagrammable mews all over the city, including Warren Mews, Hyde Park Garden Mews, Conduit Mews, Sussex Mews West, Bathurst Mews, Queen’s Gate Mews, Stanhope Mews South, and Holland Park Mews, to name just a few!
The Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is the highest public garden in London. It’s a wonderful place to take shots of the city’s skyline as the entire place is decorated with plants!
The plants you’ll find here include Mediterranean and South African species. And you may very well feel as though you’re inside a jungle if it weren’t for the 360-degree views of the city you get from the terrace.
Entry to The Sky Garden is free, but you need to snag a ticket as space is limited. As an alternative, you can book yourself a table at the restaurant and get in without needing a ticket. Or join this private city tour that includes Sky Garden admission.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is one of the most Instagrammable places in London. That’s because of its stunning architecture and impressive collection of natural history exhibits. These provide numerous photo opportunities for visitors.
The museum’s grand entrance hall, with its intricate ceiling, is a popular spot for taking photos. That’s due to the many dinosaur skeletons, the life-size model of a blue whale, and the beautifully designed Hintze Hall.
In addition, the museum often hosts temporary exhibitions that are visually striking and make for great photo opportunities. I suggest getting skip-the-line tickets, especially if you are going during peak season.
St Pancras Renaissance Hotel
The St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is part of the London Instagram scene because of its stunning Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and luxurious interior design.
The hotel is housed in a restored 19th-century railway station. It features grand public spaces, ornate grand staircases, and period details such as stained glass windows, marble floors, and wrought-iron balustrades, which provide plenty of photo opportunities for visitors.
In addition, the hotel’s opulent bedrooms, bars, and restaurants, including the famous Booking Office Bar, make for great backdrops for Instagram photos.
The hotel’s location next to King’s Cross Station and the famous Platform 9 3/4 also adds to its popularity on social media. Check the latest rates and availability.
God’s Own Junkyard
If you love all things neon and lights in your pictures, God’s Own Junkyard is a pretty cool place to get some seriously cool Instagram shots.
God’s Own Junkyard is a shop tucked away inside a warehouse in the Walthamstow neighborhood where you can buy just about everything neon and retro. Signs, lights, and all sorts of funky items can be found here.
The owner of the shop was actually a sign creator for strip clubs in the city. His work was so creative that it soon caught the attention of famous directors like Tim Burton and Stanley Kubrick, who hired him to create props for their films!
St Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most Instagrammable places in London due to its iconic architecture, impressive history, and stunning views.
The cathedral’s majestic dome, intricate mosaics, and soaring interior are popular subjects for photos, as are its many tombs, memorials, and artworks.
Visitors can also climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city. This provides a great opportunity for capturing a unique and beautiful shot of London.
Additionally, the cathedral is often illuminated at night, making it a particularly popular spot for capturing beautiful night shots. Get your St Paul’s Cathedral tickets here.
British Museum
The British Museum in London is a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy spots. There are numerous exhibits and artifacts that make for great photo opportunities.
Some of the most popular spots include the Great Court, Rosetta Stone, Egyptian Sculpture Gallery, Parthenon Sculptures, and the Japanese Gallery.
There are also many temporary exhibitions and displays at the British Museum, which provide a variety of other Instagram-worthy shots.
Since the British Museum is HUGE, I highly recommend booking this affordable private tour so you can hit all the top photo spots.
Regent Street
Regent Street is perfect for the best Instagram photos of London because of its stunning architecture, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere.
The street is lined with impressive Georgian and Victorian buildings. Many of these feature ornate details and striking facades that provide excellent photo opportunities.
In addition, Regent Street is home to several famous landmarks. These include the Liberty department store, the famous Hamleys toy shop, and the beautiful All Souls Church.
The street is also a popular shopping destination. There is a mix of high-end designer stores, independent boutiques, and popular high street chains, which provide a colorful and lively backdrop for photos.
Heading to London during the holidays? Regent Street is beautifully decorated during the holiday season with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas trees. It’s a particularly popular spot for capturing the magic of Christmas in London.
Neal’s Yard
Tucked away in a small courtyard in Covent Garden, the area is known for its brightly painted buildings, quirky shops, and cozy Instagram worthy cafes, which provide plenty of photo opportunities.
The walls of the buildings are adorned with street art and murals, adding to the area’s bohemian and artistic vibe. The courtyard is also home to several popular health food and wellness stores, which add to the area’s unique character.
Additionally, the area is often illuminated with twinkling fairy lights, making it a popular spot for evening and night shots.
Overall, Neal’s Yard provides a unique and picturesque backdrop for capturing the charm and character of London.
London Eye
People love taking photos with the London Eye because it is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in London. In fact, my kids insisted we ride it on our recent trip to London!
The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames. Its prominent location provides stunning views of the city.
Visitors can take a ride on the Eye and capture sweeping views of London from above. Or take photos of the Ferris wheel from the ground, where its towering height and unique design make for great photo opportunities.
Additionally, the London Eye is often illuminated at night with colorful lights, adding to its beauty and making it a popular spot for capturing nighttime shots of the city.
If you’re visiting in the summer, I highly recommend getting Fast Track tickets as the line can be exhaustingly long.
Chelsea Flower Market
Chelsea Flower Market is one of the most Instagrammable places in London because of its vibrant and colorful atmosphere.
The market is located in the heart of Chelsea. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who come to admire the beautiful flowers and plants on display.
The market is also known for its charming storefronts and colorful displays, which provide an ideal backdrop for photos. The area is particularly popular in the spring and summer when the market is in full bloom and the streets are lined with an array of beautiful flowers and plants.
Visitors can capture colorful and creative shots of floral arrangements, or simply take a stroll through the market and enjoy the beautiful scents and sights.
Saint Dunstan in the East
This one is quite a secret that only London photographers and hard-chore medieval architecture lovers seem to know about!
Saint Dunstan in the East is a gorgeous medieval church that dates all the way back to the 11th century.
Unfortunately, this area was hit hard during WWII. These days, only the ruins of the church were left behind. But the entire place looks as stunning as ever, especially considering the walls have been covered in greenery.
Despite it being a gorgeous place, Saint Dunstan in the East is still very much a hidden gem in the city. This means you won’t have to deal with crowds while you’re taking pictures, which is a huge plus!
Hotel Indigo Leicester Square
Visitors love taking photos at Hotel Indigo Leicester Square because of its stunning and unique design, which provides a great backdrop for photos.
The hotel is located in the heart of Leicester Square, one of London’s most vibrant and bustling areas, and its distinctive architecture and vibrant decor make it stand out.
The hotel’s design is inspired by its location and the surrounding entertainment district. It has playful touches like a grand piano in the lobby, murals of famous movie stars and directors on the walls, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
In addition to the hotel’s unique design, its location also makes it a popular spot for taking photos. That’s because it is surrounded by some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square, and the West End theater district. Check the latest rates and availability.
Eltham Palace
Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Eltham Palace was once the royal residency of the Tudors before it was left to deteriorate.
Luckily, during the 1930s, a couple leased the palace and took on the mission to renovate it. While some aspects of the church were brought back to their original glory, modern and Art Deco touches were added in as well. This created a very interesting combination of medieval and modern architecture.
The palace looks gorgeous from the outside. But its interior is also incredible for unique pictures, as Eltham Palace is rarely visited by tourists to London.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of the most Instagrammable places in London because of its iconic and majestic design, which provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
Tower Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the River Thames. Its distinctive design, with two towers and a central walkway, has made it one of London’s most recognizable landmarks.
Visitors can take photos of the bridge from various angles and viewpoints. These include from the banks of the river, on a boat cruise on the Thames, or even from the top of the nearby Tower of London. Or you can get a London Bridge entry ticket to explore inside.
The bridge is particularly impressive at night. It is illuminated with colorful lights, making it a popular spot for capturing nighttime shots of the city.
Additionally, visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy views of the city from above, which provides an excellent opportunity for capturing panoramic shots of London’s skyline.
Overall, Tower Bridge is a must-see attraction in London and a popular spot for taking photos and capturing the city’s beauty.
Little Venice
Little Venice is an area of London located right next to a canal that will very much remind you of, as its name suggests – Venice!
This gem is located in northern London right where the Grand Union Canal and Regent’s Canal meet. You’ll find plenty of colorful houseboats on the water as well as tons of restaurants and waterside coffee shops perfect for a break.
To get the best photos, we recommend taking a boat ride along the river. This will give you a great chance to explore one of London’s most unique neighborhoods. Check the latest rates and availability.
Even though it’s gorgeous, Little Venice is rarely mentioned in most guides to the city. This makes it a bit of a hidden gem and a palace where taking beautiful pictures is very easy.
Peggy Porschen
Commonly ranked as one of the most Instagrammable cafes in the world, Peggy Porschen is a place where you’ll find all things pretty in pink.
Peggy Porschen is known for its delicious (and gorgeous) cakes and pastries. But in recent years, it has become one of London’s most Instagrammable spots and once you’re here, you’ll see exactly why that is!
Everything at Peggy Porschen is pink, including its whimsical facade and its doorway lined by pink flowers. Inside, you’ll find even more pink hues and even more Instagram-worthy spots.
As a tip, Peggy Porschen is also a wonderful place to embrace London’s tea culture. Head over here for afternoon tea to get a quintessential London pic!
Address: Ever since its opening, Peggy Porschen has opened plenty of Instagrammable cafes all over the city. The original one is located at 116 Ebury St, London SW1W 9QQ, United Kingdom.
Buckingham Palace
This official residence of the British monarchy provides an excellent backdrop for photos. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in the U.K.
Buckingham Palace is one of the most Instagrammable places in London because of its grand and regal appearance. This makes it an impressive and iconic landmark to photograph.
Visitors can take photos of the palace from various viewpoints, such as from the nearby St. James’s Park or from the famous Mall, which leads up to the palace gates.
Additionally, visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place outside the palace and capture photos of the colorful and elaborate spectacle.
The palace is also illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for capturing nighttime shots of the city.
Notting Hill
Notting Hill is a district of West London that is known for being one of the best neighborhoods in London. The entire place is home to incredible bars, restaurants, shops, and cafés, making it a must-see stop on any London itinerary.
With that said, Notting Hill is also a wonderful place to get some seriously cool Instagram shots. Plenty of its streets are made up of pastel-colored buildings that create a perfect background for pictures. A few examples of these include Lancaster Road and Portobello Road.
Do note that these houses are real homes and locals have complained about people standing at their front doors to take photos. Make sure you keep a safe distance and don’t disturb residents too much!
Shops at Covent Garden
This is a vibrant area with street performers, unique shops, and a beautiful market. It’s no wonder why it’s one of the best London Instagram spots.
Tourists visiting the Shops at Covent Garden in London should take photos of the charming architecture and unique features of the area.
Visitors can capture photos of the beautiful buildings and storefronts. These feature a range of architectural styles, from grand Georgian facades to modern glass structures.
It’s also a great location for fashion photography, with its cobbled streets, fashionable shops, and beautiful architecture.
Visitors should not miss the opportunity to photograph the iconic Covent Garden Market. It features a beautiful glass roof and a range of stalls selling everything from flowers to artisanal food products.
Overall, the Shops at Covent Garden is a vibrant and charming area in London that provides plenty of opportunities for visitors to capture unique and memorable photos.
The Churchill Arms
There are plenty of pubs all over London, but few of them are as iconic and photogenic as Churchill Arms.
The pub is located on a corner in Notting Hill. It was built in 1750 and is one of the oldest and most historic pubs in the city. The pub was renamed that way because, back in the 1800s, Winston Churchill’s grandparents were frequent visitors.
What makes Churchill Arms a favorite Instagram spot in London is its facade. The entire building is draped in colorful flowers and British flags!
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is a small area in London that has a village-like feel and is made up of incredibly charming pastel-colored townhouses that create the perfect background for pictures.
After spending hours on end shooting photos in front of the colorful houses, you can also take up the chance to explore the neighborhood on foot. This is where you’ll find plenty of chic restaurants, cute coffee shops, and tons of boutique shops.
Regents Park is also located here, so you can pair up your Insta walk with a visit to one of London’s most beautiful parks.
Camden Town
Camden is home to some of the best street art in London, with colorful and eye-catching murals and graffiti adorning many of the buildings and walls.
Located along the scenic Regent’s Canal, Camden provides a picturesque backdrop for photos. Visitors can capture shots of the colorful narrowboats, bridges, and the surrounding greenery.
Camden Market is a popular shopping destination, featuring a wide range of stalls and vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. Visitors can capture photos of the bustling crowds, colorful merchandise, and lively atmosphere.
The Shard
One of the tallest buildings in Europe, The Shard offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck on the 72nd floor.
Visitors can take photos of the incredible views of London, including iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames.
A unique and impressive architectural feat, The Shard features sleek and modern design that stands out among the historic buildings in the city.
Its glass facade and sharp angles provide a dramatic backdrop for photos, particularly when viewed from the nearby London Bridge.
But, it’s also super fun to go inside. The observation deck is the ultimate selfie spot. If you’re heading there during prime tourist season, get your Shard tickets before you go.
Shoreditch
An edgy and artistic area with street art, vintage shops, and unique Instagrammable cafes. Photographers love it because it’s a great place to capture the edgy and artistic side of London fashion.
London visitors can capture photos of the unique and eye-catching street art, which is constantly changing as new artists contribute their work.
The area’s vibrant street art scene, eclectic fashion, bustling markets, and innovative spirit make it a popular spot for Instagrammers and photographers alike.
The Painted Hall
Set in Greenwich, the Painted Hall is a beautiful baroque building located inside the Royal Naval College.
Even though the building in itself is beautiful, the real magic lies inside, where you’ll find a hall so beautiful that is often nicknamed “Britain’s Sistine Chapel”.
The hall contains 40,000 square feet of ceilings and walls, all of which are covered by images showcasing queens, kinds, and even mythological creatures. It’s definitely one of London’s hidden gems!
London Instagram Spots FAQs
The most photographed place in London is likely to be Big Ben, or more accurately, the Elizabeth Tower, which is a part of the Houses of Parliament. Other popular photographed locations in London include Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Trafalgar Square.
London is a fashion capital and has many great locations for fashion photography. The most Instagrammable places for fashion photography include Shoreditch, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Portobello Road, South Bank, and Somerset House. With its mix of historic architecture, trendy neighborhoods, and world-class shopping, London provides many opportunities for capturing the latest trends and styles.
London has many hip and trendy neighborhoods, but one of the most popular is Shoreditch. Located in the East End of London, Shoreditch has become known for its edgy and artistic vibe, with its street art, independent shops, and unique restaurants and bars. Other hip neighborhoods in London include Camden, with its alternative vibe and bustling markets, and Notting Hill, with its colorful houses and fashionable boutiques.
Instagrammable Places in London England Wrap Up
I hope this list of the most Instagrammable places in London helps you figure out your itinerary. I highly recommend picking out your favorites and putting them in a Google map so you can see which ones are closest to each other.
Looking for more London travel content? Check out my top London travel tips, kid-friendly London 4 day itinerary, hidden gems in London, things to do in London with kids, best day trips from London, family-friendly hotels in London, things to do in London at night, best London tours for families, 1 day in London, and how to book a London family photographer!
