10 Views From London
There are two ways to understand a town, to make it your own entirely. One is to forget your A to Z and GPS and to walk it endlessly – getting lost often leads to superb discoveries, those you just cannot find in a tourist guide.
Another is to step higher. A bird’s eye view makes it easier to understand why historical milestones were built: remember that transport was river based at some time. Mostly, it sprinkles some magic on the city – everything looks within grasp. Why not take the kids over the holiday? They will love pretending they are a giant towering over the building!
Here are my 10 favourite spots to feel like you’re walking on a cloud:
London Eye
The best view on Big Ben and Parliament. I have never tired of it – different times of the day bring different atmospheres: a bright blue sky will make you feel ever so cheerful, sunset colours transform sculpted buildings in elegant stone laces , the twinkling lights of the cities at night make it look ever so alive…
No worry – this is not your usual big wheel. Capsules are extremely stable and move around so smoothly you do not even realise it, even on a windy day. Sunny days bring quite a crowd but there is an easy way to beat this – just book online before leaving home (http://www.londoneye.com/”>online tickets also are 10% cheaper!).
Big Ben
Although not a touristic attraction, you can ask to climb up the tower and get close to the famous bell at ringing times. Even better – it’s free. The visit takes you right behind the clock dials – how fascinating to discover the machinery and learn the historical anecdotes! If you get the choice, go for the noon tour: gives you a little more time to enjoy it. Sadly, no cameras are allowed.
St Paul’s
The walk represents 528 steps in total, taking you through the whisper, which looks down on the centre of the church. It is quite a trip to the dome – a large variety of staircases – but the sight is so worth it! You can admire the City from Tower Bridge to Westminster, even further on a clear day. My advice for the most wonderful pictures: blow a multitude of soap bubbles…
One New Change
If you go as a family, attraction prices are usually pretty heavy on your budget. This new shopping centre offers a 6th floor terrace opening straight on Saint Paul, all for free!
Monument
One of the cheapest options at £3/ adult, this historical landmark commemorates the fire of 1666, casting a shadow on where it started on Pudding lane. This is a sport option as there is no resting till you reach the top. Indulge in a donut before stepping in and take a bottle of water with you. You will even get a congratulations certificate for it!
Westminster Cathedral
Not to be confused with Westminster Abbey, and just a 15mn walk from there! Its Moresque architecture makes it worth the detour. I love to go on a Saturday morning to hear the choir practising in Latin while admiring the multitude of chapels. The walls are covered with intricate mosaics that have no equivalent in London. Take the lift to the top of the tower and admire the sculpted buildings around.
A Few Foodie Specials
Skybar
This is my week-end special: a gorgeous brunch with breath-taking views of the city… AND they are said to cook the best Eggs Benedict around.
Vista
This certainly is the best rooftop bar in the city and the season really calls for an outdoor cocktail pause. Its terrace overlooks Trafalgar Square – makes it a VIP place to enjoy events and festivals!
OXO Tower
Some of my friends are afraid of heights, so the previous options definitely do not work for them. I take them to the OXO Tower instead. The terrace is just at the right level to offer a gorgeous view on the Thames with the City in the background. I, personally, prefer to pop up there at sunset or in the evening to make it all the more magical.
Vertigo 4
And last but not least, this champagne bar is sure to bring a wow effect. At night, you will literally have the city at your feet, like a twinkling carpet. The bubbliest way to enjoy London!
Have we forgotten any in our “top” list? Let us know your place to enjoy a piece of the “high” life!
Photography by Sektor Kind, CaffeineHit, Karen Roe, and Rodents Rule
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