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12.09.2026
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20.09.2026
Take in London's breathtaking skyline at these viewing platforms
London's skyline beautifully brings together centuries-old architecture with modern and iconic skyscrapers, forming one of the most recognisable vistas around the world.
Getting up high and taking in the sights should be at the top of everyone's to-do list, so to make it easier for you, we've collated a list of the different viewing platforms open to the public so you can take your pick out of them all.
The best part is, so many of them are totally free! Meaning you can visit a range of them, and most won't cost you a penny.
Horizon 22
Introducing Europe's highest free viewing platform. Horizon 22 will whisk you up to the 58th floor to take in the stunning vistas of London. It's said you can see for as far as 30 miles on a clear day, but it's so high that when it's cloudy, you'll be walking amongst the clouds which offers a totally different experience.
With over one million visits to date, this space will offer you 300-degree views more than 250 metres above ground (or 800 feet), and you can even grab a caffeine boost or some bubbles at their cafe.
Booking: It is highly recommended you book in advance, and tickets are released at 10am Mondays for the following 14 days.
What makes this one unique: The highest offering in London, unique events and wide open spaces to take in the view.
Amenities: A fully stocked cafe with pastries, bubbles and ice cream. Events with live music and special offers; toilets are available, and there's step-free access.
Courtesy of Horizon 22.
The Garden at 120
The *vibes* have just entered the room, as The Garden at 120 truly brings the atmosphere. Based on the 15th floor of Fen Court, The Garden at 120 has an entire manicured, award-winning garden and dedicated gardener. That means the greenery and horticulture at the top isn't just lip-service, it's the real deal.
Accompanied by water features, views of the river, and a close-up with architectural giant The Gherkin, The Garden offers a range of views and vibes, meaning you can truly spend hours up there (trust us, we have). Take a book, bring some snacks and spend a while.
Booking: There is no pre-booking; just turn up and queue.
What makes this one unique: The greenery, the immaculate vibes, the different views on offer and the entrance!
Amenities: There's a restaurant called 14 Hills, plenty of seating and spots to relax, toilets, as well as Europe's largest digital ceiling and step-free access.
Credit to City of London Corporation.
Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is the OG viewing platform, having been around in the City of London since 2015. It's often on the top of every visitor's list, and for good reason. It's London's highest public garden and has spectacular greenery throughout.
The Walkie Talkie itself is an architectural icon of London, so a visit is a great experience, but with the garden's dual-sided views, you get great sightlines both north and south across London.
Booking: Tickets are hotter than the Era's Tour and sell out quickly, so if you're planning a visit, make sure to keep an eye on their website.
What makes this one unique: It's one of London's most recognisable architectural giants and most visited attractions; the greenery at the top is spectacular, and they host unique events throughout the year.
Amenities: Two bars, two restaurants, a gift shop, toilets, step-free access.
The Lookout
The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate is a great contender for the best views of London. Located just next door to Horizon 22, this one is a touch closer to the river and will take you up 50 floors, offering floor-to-ceiling windows for uninterrupted views of London.
How does yoga sound while all of London bursts into life below you? The Lookout is known for its unique fitness sessions, as well as one-off events available in the space. There's plenty of seating dotted around, and it's generally a peaceful experience, making it a gorgeous way to take in London's rooftops.
Booking: Tickets can be booked up to two weeks in advance and are released every other Monday.
What makes this one unique: This one is easy to access, has plenty of seating, and offers a peaceful experience.
Amenities: Plenty of seating and step-free access.
One New Change Roof Terrace
This is the one for the St Paul's Lovers, as the Roof Terrace atop the One New Change shopping centre will offer the best views of the Cathedral's dome and show you this historic icon in a completely new light.
With an easy walk-in experience, you just pop into the lift which will take you up six floors to the roof of One New Change. It's one of the most iconic lift experiences too as you rise with a perfectly framed St Paul's Cathedral outside your glass chariot. You'll then find a roof terrace with benches, Roman statues and a nice garden to wander, who couldn't love it!
Booking: No booking required, and generally no queuing; just head on up.
What makes this one unique: Unrivalled views of St Paul's Cathedral, as well as simple access.
Amenities: The rooftop itself has seating ,and step-free access and you'll find a range of amenities in the shopping centre below.
Roof Terrace at One New Change
The Terrace at One Leadenhall
The newest addition to the Square Mile's viewing platforms. The Terrace at One Leadenhall opened in 2026 and offers a unique view of the famous Leadenhall Market. Head in from the Whittington Avenue entrance and take the lift four floors up to find a great view of the rooftops of the Market and see the icon from a completely new aspect.
You'll also get perfect views of Bishopsgate, which makes for great people-watching, and a fantastic perspective of the Lloyd's Building and other skyscrapers. There's plenty of seating available alongside some greenery, which offers a lovely spot to sit down, take a breath, and have a *moment*.
Booking: No booking required, just head on up!
What makes this one unique: The simple access, unique views of Leadenhall Market and other buildings, and the abundance of seating.
Amenities: Toilets, step-free access, and plenty of seating to make the most of your visit.
View from The Terrace at One Leadenhall
The Monument
Not many people know you can actually go to the top of the famous Monument- yes, that Monument which marks the spot the Great Fire of London started.
It's open daily, meaning you can head on up at any time, and while this one is ticketed, the price comes with the pleasure of being inside one of London's most recognisable pieces of architecture, so it's well worth it in our opinion!
Booking: Tickets are required but can only be bought on the door. Adults are priced at £7 with discounts for students, children and other concessions.
What makes this one unique: You're on *the* Monument, climbing an icon and taking in 360 views of London.
Amenities: The only way to reach the top of this one is via 311 steps, so unfortunately it isn't suitable for those unable to climb.
Tower Bridge
We all know her, we all love her, but you've probably never thought of Tower Bridge for it's amazing views of London! There's a glass walkway inside which lets you take a peek down below, as well as spaces from which you can see across both sides of the Thames.
Not only do you get great views, but you also get fantastic exhibitions, and the knowledge you're inside one of the most famous pieces of historical architecture.
Booking: You can book tickets on the day or in advance, and they're priced from £15.80 for adults with various concessions and children's prices.
What makes this one unique: You're on an icon, arguably one of the nation's most recognisable spaces (no, not you London Bridge), and you get a wealth of stories, expertise and first-hand history.
Amenities: There are toilets on site with step-free access across the site, and you're even allowed to bring your dog for the visit!
Watch the OneCity guide
We went along to these platforms and created a visual guide, so if you want to see the views for yourself before you choose which to visit, watch our OneCity guide below.
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Want to make a day of it?
If you want to pair these views with some history, culture, or world-class food and drink, check out our Directory to see what's nearby.
