Sky Garden (20 Fenchurch Street)
An absolute must-see on any free London itinerary is the Sky Garden. Housed on the top three floors of the distinctive ‘Walkie-Talkie’ building, this magnificent public space offers a 360-degree viewing gallery combined with lush, landscaped gardens. Stroll through the exotic foliage as you enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the capital’s most famous landmarks, from the Gherkin to the Tower of London.
While entry is free, booking your timed ticket online well in advance is essential, as slots fill up quickly. A visit to the Sky Garden provides a unique perspective on the city that’s truly unbeatable.
Horizon 22 (22 Bishopsgate)
Take your free viewing experience to a whole new level at Horizon 22, Europe’s tallest free viewing platform. Located on the 58th floor of 22 Bishopsgate, this spectacular space boasts breathtaking 300-degree views of London from an incredible 254 metres high.
The journey to the top is part of the fun, with a high-speed lift whisking you upwards in a mere 41 seconds. With floor-to-ceiling glass, you will feel completely immersed in the city’s iconic skyline. Like Sky Garden, entry is free, but you must book a ticket online in advance to guarantee your slot and avoid disappointment.
The Garden at 120 (Fen Court)
For a tranquil and equally stunning alternative to the bustling Sky Garden, head to The Garden at 120. This lesser-known gem is the City of London’s largest public rooftop space and, best of all, requires no pre-booking—simply walk in.
Situated on the 15th floor of the Fen Court building, it offers sensational 360-degree views of the capital’s skyline, with an up-close perspective on icons like the Gherkin and the Walkie-Talkie. The garden features charming fruit trees, a long water feature, and plenty of seating, making it a perfect, calm retreat for soaking up the cityscape without the crowds.
The Lookout (8 Bishopsgate)
Among London’s newest additions to the free-viewing scene is The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate. Located on the 50th floor of this striking skyscraper, The Lookout provides a spectacular, uninterrupted panorama of the capital. From this vantage point, you will see a mix of historic landmarks and modern architecture, including impressive close-ups of the City’s iconic buildings.
Although entry is free, booking a timed ticket online is highly recommended to secure your spot, as this is one of the most exciting new platforms to open. With its fresh perspective and central location, The Lookout is a must-visit for anyone seeking an elevated experience.
One New Change Rooftop Terrace
For a free, no-booking-required option, look no further than the One New Change Rooftop Terrace. Located directly opposite St Paul’s Cathedral, this hidden gem offers a truly unique perspective on one of London’s most famous landmarks. Step out onto the 15th-floor terrace and be greeted by a mesmerising, up-close view of the cathedral’s stunning dome.
It is a wonderful, calmer alternative to the city’s larger viewing platforms, perfect for a spontaneous visit. The terrace is also home to Madison restaurant, but the public viewing area is free and accessible to all, providing a fantastic, budget-friendly spot to admire the cityscape.
Tate Modern Viewing Level
Perched atop the Tate Modern’s Blavatnik Building, the Level 10 Viewing Level offers a unique and artistic perspective of London. This free-to-enter, indoor and covered outdoor space provides incredible views across the River Thames, with a stunning, up-close look at St Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge.
It is the perfect spot to take a break from the gallery’s world-class art collection, sit down with a coffee from the café, and watch the city buzz. No booking is required, making it a brilliant and spontaneous addition to any sightseeing tour.
Greenwich Park – Royal Observatory Hill
For a free, natural viewing experience, head to the Royal Observatory Hill in Greenwich Park. This famous vantage point is widely considered to offer London’s finest panoramic views. From here, you can gaze across the beautifully manicured park towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Maritime Greenwich, before your eyes are drawn to the gleaming skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and the iconic landmarks of central London, including the Shard.
This spot offers a stunning combination of green space and city sprawl, proving that some of the best views come entirely free of charge, with no booking required.
No Head For Heights?
You do not always need to climb a skyscraper to capture a spectacular view of London. London’s rolling landscape offers incredible, free natural viewpoints. One of the best is Parliament Hill on Hampstead Heath. At 98 metres high, it is one of the capital’s highest natural vantage points, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city’s famous skyline.
For a great day out, why not get the Tube to Hampstead station, walk through the park to the viewpoint, and then continue your stroll down the other side to Kentish Town station? It is the perfect way to combine fresh air with incredible sights without scaling the heady heights of the city’s skyscrapers for a fabulous view.
Conclusion
London’s iconic skyline is a true work of art, and as this guide proves, admiring it does not have to come with a hefty price tag. From the lush public gardens high above the City to natural hilltops with sweeping views, the capital is brimming with free viewing platforms for every kind of explorer. Whether you are a tourist seeking that perfect photo, a student on a budget, or a long-time resident looking for a fresh perspective, London’s high-rise gems and open spaces provide unforgettable experiences free of charge.
While our top picks offer the best free experiences, there are many other ways to enjoy stunning views without paying for a full-price ticket. The OXO Tower, for example, has a public viewing gallery on its eighth floor that is free to visit and offers fantastic views over the Thames. Bōkan, a chic bar and restaurant in Canary Wharf, provides incredible vistas from its 38th and 39th floors. Though you will need to purchase a drink, a soft drink or coffee can be a small price to pay for such a spectacular panorama.
London is a city of layers, and its skyline tells a story of history and modernity blending perfectly together as the landscape continuously evolves. Exploring its unique perspectives, whether from a bustling rooftop café or a hill in a peaceful park, is essential to the London experience.
At Crown Luxury Homes, we believe that living in this city means being surrounded by breathtaking views every day. We help tenants and home buyers find the perfect place to call home in a city full of unique and beautiful experiences. Contact us today to find out more.
