Best Buildings to Photograph in London: Iconic Spots and Hidden Gems

When you think of best buildings to photograph in London, architectural landmarks that define the city’s visual identity and attract photographers from around the world. Also known as London photo landmarks, these structures aren’t just places you walk past—they’re subjects that tell stories of power, faith, innovation, and everyday life. Whether it’s the gothic spires of Westminster Abbey or the sleek curves of The Shard, each building has a personality that changes with the light, the season, and the crowd.

Photographing London isn’t just about pointing your camera at famous names. It’s about knowing where to stand when the morning fog lifts off the Thames, or how the golden hour hits the glass facade of 30 St Mary Axe. The London skyline, the ever-changing silhouette shaped by centuries of construction, from medieval churches to 21st-century towers. Also known as London horizon, it’s the canvas every photographer tries to capture. Then there’s the London architecture, a mix of stone, steel, and glass that reflects the city’s layered history—from Roman walls to Brutalist housing blocks. Also known as London building styles, it’s what makes every corner feel like a different era. You don’t need a tripod to shoot Neal’s Yard, but you do need to be there before the Instagram crowds arrive. You don’t need a zoom lens to photograph the dome of St Paul’s, but you do need to know which bridge gives you the clearest view without tourists in the frame.

What You’ll Find in This Collection

Below, you’ll find real, tested spots where photographers actually get their best shots—not just the usual postcard angles. We’ve pulled together guides on capturing the colorful chaos of Neal’s Yard, the quiet grandeur of Westminster Abbey, the modern drama of The Shard at dusk, and even the forgotten Roman ruins tucked between office buildings. You’ll learn when to visit for soft light, which side streets offer unexpected perspectives, and how to avoid the tourist traps that ruin the shot. Whether you’re holding a phone or a full-frame camera, these posts give you the exact locations, timing tips, and hidden details that make your photos stand out. No fluff. No guesses. Just what works.