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London is arguably one of the most famous and photogenic destinations in the world. From colourful houses to grand architecture, fashion and art, there are several beautiful locations to help you admire London’s beauty and fill your feed with all of those Instagram-worthy shots.
If you’re planning to take a trip to London, you’ll want to be sure to hit up all of the hottest Instagram famous photo shoot locations. Here is the ultimate guide featuring 20 of the best places to explore in London along with tips and ideas for your next Instagram photo shoot.
The Mews Streets are quiet little nooks away from the busy city life. Wander through the boroughs of South Kensington and Chelsea where you can simply let your feet lead the way. The secret alleyways and hidden passages, known as the “mews streets” are easily some of the prettiest streets London has to offer. The most famous, Kynance Mews is one of the most highly sought-after places to live in the entire city.
Be sure to check out these other beautiful streets:
Location: Kynance Mews, Kensington, London SW7
Deep in the heart of Zone 1, you’ll find a little courtyard tucked away called Neal’s Yard. Here you’ll find walls painted in vibrant colours, open terraces, cafe’s, retail spaces and more. It’s a secret London location that you’d never even know was there. It’s located right in the middle of the Seven Dials District where tall bricked buildings rise so high you can barely see the skyline above. Tip: Head here early in the morning before it gets too busy.
Location: Neal’s Yard, London WC2H
The St Paul’s Cathedral sits at the highest point of the city, dating all the way back from the 17th century. It’s one of the most famous and recognisable sights in London. This location is perfect for photography, especially during sunset where you’ll get the best lighting. There are also so many angles to choose your best shot, including the classic view from the Millennium Bridge or alongside the South Bank just outside the Tate Modern.
Location: 1 New Change, London EC4M 9AF
Located in Greenwich, this cute little museum is the perfect Instagram shot for those who love architecture. Inside, the spiral staircases make the perfect photo opportunity.
Location: Queen’s House, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF
Taking photos at this bridge isn’t an easy task, but it is a very famous location for photography as it overlooks St Paul’s Cathedral in the distance. It’s nickname is “Wobbly Bridge” after Londoners experienced an alarming swaying motion while walking across. The bridge has since been modified to eliminate the motion. Tip: Get to this bridge very early in the morning to avoid the crowd.
Location: Millennium Bridge, Thames Embankment, London SE1
One of London’s newest places to go, the Sky Garden boasts panoramic views of the city. While you’re there, be sure to grab a refreshing cocktail with a number of bars and restaurants inside. To access the Sky Garden you’ll need to book in advance, but not to worry as tickets are free.
Location: 1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF
During the day, there are huge crowds of visitors and rightfully so considering that Buckingham Palace is potentially the most famous attraction in London. The palace currently serves as the venue for many royal events and ceremonies and is open to the public during the summer months.
Location: Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA
This is a classic London location for a photo shoot with all of the red telephone boxes lining the street. To beat the crowd, head here early on a weekday to get the best shot of your iconic London insta-pic.
Location: Parliament Square, Westminster, London SW1P 3JX
This stereotypical London landmark is the perfect location from whichever side you decide to capture it from. If you decide to take a photo while on the bridge, it really provides great perspective on the size of this beautiful architectural structure. If you’re on the south side, you can capture Tower Bridge, the Tower of London as well as all of the buildings in the city in one frame. Basically, no matter what angle you’re standing upon, this location has Instagram written all over it.
Location: Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP
Located in East London, this closed market can be accessed from various openings. The interior is absolutely stunning and since it’s a financial district, the best time to capture your best shot is actually on the weekend! Since the majority of this area is made up of offices, all of the cafes, restaurants and bars are closed on the weekends.
Location: Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT
Instagrammers have made this place famous with their clever photo shoots at this little cake cafe. Peggy Porschen flaunts a pink exterior with tons of floral decorations. Treat yourself to one of their yummy cupcakes, photograph it and then take another photo outside of this darling cafe to make the most of your visit.
Location: Peggy Porschen, 116 Ebury St, Belgravia SW1W 9QQ
Notting Hill is a neighbourhood, but you can still wander the streets and take advantage of the white houses and beautiful architecture. Around the corner, you’ll find the cute colourful houses of Portobello. Capture a moment sitting on the steps admiring all of the details as if you actually live in one of these quaint houses.
Location: Notting Hill, London W11 2PA
One of the most decorated and photogenic pubs in London, is The Churchhill Arms. It’s located close to Notting Hill and is covered in plants and flags. It’s a prime example of British eccentricity.
Location: 119 Kensington Church St, London W8 7LN
Another very popular landmark, The Houses of Parliament is another extremely photogenic location for Instagrammers. If you want some of the best shots, photograph the archway of the nearby under-passage. Tip: Sunset is one of the best times to photograph this location since the sun usually sets right behind the building.
Location: CJD Memorial Plaque, Lambeth, London SE1 7GA
The London Eye is great for being both the object of the photograph as well as the location from which to take the actual photo. Riding the London Eye is a very touristy activity, so be sure to book your ticket in advance and during the week if possible. The views here are unlike any other being that it’s 135 metres in height.
Location: Coca-Cola London Eye, Lambeth, London SE1 7PB
The Shard is a favourite viewpoint location for Instagrammers. You can go to the viewing platform on the top floor or enjoy the view from the cocktail bar a few floors down. The views are absolutely spectacular with 360 degree views of the city.
Location: The Shard, 32 London Bridge, London SE1 9SG
The main hall of this museum has incredible architecture. It also provides the perfect backdrop, especially when travelling in the winter time with all of the extra lights and whimsical ice rink.
Location: Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, Kensington, London SW7 5BD
This famous concert hall is probably one of the most underrated spots in London for Instagram photos. It has a distinct red colour and round architecture making it an easily recognisable landmark in London.
Location: Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, Kensington, London SW7 2AP
This location is amazing at night time, but also rather difficult to photograph due to the bright video screens and neon signs. Piccadilly Circus is located in the City of Westminster and is a round open space at a street junction, a quite glamorous street junction at that.
Location: Piccadilly Circus, London W1J 9HS
Whether you are checking out the beautifully tiled patterns in the tunnels of the Embankment Station or at the London Bridge Station, the London Underground has so many picturesque spots for your Instagram feed. Here are some of the major stations in London:
Location: London Bridge Station, 21 Duke St Hill, London SE1 2SW