Top 10 most instagrammable places in London (that you can conquer in one day!)

Top 10 most instagrammable places in London (that you can conquer in one day!)

If you’ve spent even just a DAY in this legendary city you know just how many instagrammable places in London there are!

Nowhere quite combines the mix of centuries-old history, iconic structures and cosmopolitan vibes quite like London. Making it one of THE best cities in the world to fill your glorious Instagram accounts with.

So buckle up Instagram lovers, here are my top 10 most instagrammable places in London to bookmark for your next trip. 😉

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1) The Houses of Parliament

The Palace of Westminster (better known as the Houses of Parliament) is the oldest royal palace in London and one of the most recognised buildings in the world. Not to mention the meeting place of government and one of Britain’s most recognisable icons!

Any film that cuts to London as a secondary location seems to play, “London’s Calling” by The Clash over footage of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament – it’s THAT iconic.

Top tip: For the best Instagram shot, take a walk across Westminster Bridge and hang tight for a black cab or double decker buses to come past to add some cool depth to your photo.  

2) Covent Garden

Starting its humble beginnings as a fruit and vegetable market in the 1600s, Covent Garden is now a central hub for high end stores, trendy restaurants and popular theatre shows.

But it’s not just for the big spenders. Covent Garden has some of the best street performances in London, with performers having to audition to get specific slots in the day. Performances range from singers and magicians to acrobats and human statues!

But aside from the free entertainment, Covent Garden is SUPER pretty. Especially at Christmas time when the inside market is filled with twinkling lights and decorations.

There are so many picturesque nooks and crannies, it’s truly one of the most instagrammable places in London!

Top tip: Head down late afternoon as the sun is going down – the best street performers are out and the square looks beautiful during golden hour. 

3) Portobello Road

When I visited Portobello Road for the first time, I totally fell in love with its beautiful candy coloured buildings, worldly treasures and down-to-earth street vendors.

I’ve always wanted to go ever since watching Disney’s, ‘Bedknobs and Broomsticks’ as a kid and it did not disappoint!

As the famous song goes, “Portobello Road, Portobello Road…streets where the riches of ages are stowed”…and it’s so true!

As well as being aesthetically pleasing (making it perfect for Instagram!), it’s a wonderful market to get lost in for an afternoon.

You’ll find all manor of knick knacks, historical items and vintage treasures you just can’t get anywhere else in London!

Top tip: Make sure to take a tripod to get your camera above the crowd…and plenty of cash! Many of the sellers still don’t take card. Also, if you haven’t already, watch ‘Bedknobs and Broomsticks’, it’s AMAZING! 😂

4) Oxford Street

With an eye-watering, half a million visitors a day, Oxford Street is Europe’s busiest and most popular shopping street.

As well as many high street stores, high-end chains host their flagship stores here in some of the most beautiful listed buildings in London.

It’s also got a cool history as it was built on top of an old Roman road!

Top tip: Oxford Street is lovely all year round but really sparkles when it gets its annual Christmas makeover. Head down around Christmas time for a day of shopping and check out all the lovely festive decorations and window displays.

5) Piccadilly Circus

I like to think of Piccadilly Circus as the, “Times Square” of London. It has all the same bright lights, fabulous restaurants and theatre shows but with a dash of cool Britannia.

It’s one of the most lively spots in London and always has a fantastic buzz to it.

Top tip: Head down after dark to really see those screens pop! 

6) Camden Lock

Camden is a well-known music hot spot in London where the likes of Amy Winehouse and the Libertines would regularly frequent. But it’s most famous for its diverse street markets, filled with vintage fashion, unique artwork and fresh street food.

Camden Lock is also the perfect place to hang out on a nice summer’s day to soak up the sunshine with a few craft beers and vegan food by Regent’s Canal.

Top tip: Try to go during the week as it’s a relatively small area and gets super busy over the weekend. Plus, you’ll have fewer people ruining the aesthetic of your Instagram photos! 

7) Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of Britain’s most recognisable buildings and quite rightly too! It’s the seat of monarchy and the headquarters of royal affairs of state.

But it’s probably more recognisable in modern times for the celebrations that takes place on its famous balcony such as royal weddings and Trooping of the Colour.

Top tip: Time your visit for when the changing of the guards is taking place. It’s a formal palace ceremony where the Queen’s guards are relieved from duty by the next shift of guards. It’s quite a performance!

8) Emirates Airline Cable Car

The Emirates Airline Cable Car offers one of the best views in London with a unique perspective of Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena and the Olympic Park as you glide over the River Thames.

Top tip: The views are wonderful no matter what time you go but you’ll get a pretty sweet sunset shot if you time your visit around dusk. The colours from this height are amazing!

9) Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of my absolute favourite places to visit in London!

With its prominent role in English heritage since the white tower’s construction in 1078, it’s a fantastic day out with a wide variety of photos ops, both inside and outside the tower.

The best photo spots include: The Shard from outside the cafe at the back of the tower complex and Tower Bridge from the top of the stairs leading into the white tower.

Top tip: I’d recommend visiting on a week day if you can and when the sky is reasonably clear. It’ll be a little quieter and with a clear sky, you’ll be able see across London from the inside.

10) King’s Cross Station

King’s Cross Station opened in 1852 and was built as the hub of the Great Northern Railway. Restoration works finished in 2013, which included the station’s stunning victorian arched roof.

It’s a beautifully historic train station but more importantly, it’s the home of Platform 9 3/4 and one of the most instgrammable places in London! Even if you think you’re too cool for it. 😉

Top tip: Go during the day! There is a queue to have your photo taken but employees from the Harry Potter shop will loan you a Hogwarts house scarf for the picture (shout out to my fellow Gryffindors!). Staff are also happy to take a photo on your own camera for free, which is a bonus. Don’t forget to check out the official merchandise store afterwards if you’re a keen Potter fan!

Do you have any favourite instagrammable places in London? Let me know in the comments below! 😄