A Bird’s-eye view of London – Our travel tips

Here are our top tips to get some amazing views of London!

May2014Monument The Monument
Built in 1677 to commemorate the Great Fire of London, the monument stands 62 metres high. After climbing 311 steps up the stone spiral staircase, you will get one of the  best 360-degree views of London from the viewing platform. Our opinion: hard work but worth the climb and don’t forget the souvenir certificate.
May2014O2walkway The O2 Rooftop Walkway
The O2, originally named the Millennium Dome due to its unique shape, is one of London’s largest entertainment venues. In 2012, a 380 metres long walkway was constructed over the roof. The tensile fabric pathway has no side barriers, instead walkers clip themselves to a central cable running along its length. From the central observation platform there are amazing views across central London and the Docklands. Our opinion: An exhilarating experience but not for the feint hearted or unfit!
May2014ThamesCableCar Thames River Cable car
Constructed in time for the 2012 Olympics, the cable car connects the Greenwich Peninsula with the Royal Docklands. The 5 minute aerial ride across the river inside glass gondolas gives wonderful views along the river and Greenwich Park. Our opinion: A novel addition to London’s transport and cheaper than all other viewing point options!
May2014Shard The Shard 
This 87 storey glass clad pyramidal tower nicknamed ‘the shard of Glass’ is the tallest building in Western Europe at 310 metres and it provides the highest viewing point in London . Possible to see up to 40 miles on a clear day, it has three viewing platforms on different floors. Our opinion: Great views but best to avoid the ticket price by visiting the bars on the lower floors.
May2014LondonEye The London Eye
This huge Ferris wheel is perhaps the most iconic of our viewing points. The Eye sits is a key location opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben next to the River Thames. The structure, built for the Millennium Year, was temporary initially. However the Eye became so popular it is now a permanent landmark, copied in many cities around the world. During the New Year’s firework celebrations it is frequently used to spectacular effects. Our opinion: Worth a visit but get there early to avoid the lengthy queues.

Try our tips out and let us know your opinions at lon@lsi.eduRead more about why London is such a great place to live and study .