Don’t pay to see London from up high.

Add these free London views to your to do list.

Primrose Hill | Chalk Farm

Photo: Craig Morey Flickr

Just a few minutes walk from Camden and Chalk Farm, Primrose Hill looks out over the impressive London terrain. Perfect as a running destination, picnic spot and a place to impress friends and family, Primrose Hill has it all; be sure pitch up on New Years eve to watch the city’s finest fireworks all for free!

Greenwich Observatory | Greenwich

Photo by Garry Knight Flickr

Stood in the Maritime borough of Greenwich is the Greenwich Observatory, home to Greenwich mean time. Granted, to enter the observatory does cost, however the view does not. Reachable by foot, this view boasts a worthy snapshot of Canary Wharf and the London Docklands.

Tate Modern | Bankside

Photo: Caetano Candal Sato from Flickr

World renowned artworks are not the only remarkable displays which the Tate Modern offers. Breathtaking panoramic views can be found on the 10th floor of the Blavatnik building completely free of charge.

Parliament Hill | Hampstead Heath

Photo by Matt Brown

Tucked away in the North West residential area of Hampstead Heath sits Parliament Hill, a modest viewpoint showcasing some of London’s finest landmarks –  Canary Wharf, The Gherkin, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral can all be seen.

One New Change | St Paul’s

View from One New Change

Who would have thought that one of London’s finest view points would be at the top of a shopping centre? Head up to ‘The Terrace’ at One New Change for a close up of St Paul’s and the bustling city below for a grand total of £0.

Sky Garden | Fenchurch Street

It does what it says on the tin, this view of London gravitates, quite literally, from a garden in the sky. Located on the top floor of ‘The Walkie Talkie’ skyscraper, this remarkable airborne garden complements the Sky Garden restaurant and bar which serve a host of dishes and drinks. Be warned, free, time alloted tickets must be booked in advance as spaces are prone to filling up fast!

Alexandra Palace | Muswell Hill

This Grade II listed building sat on the top of Muswell Hill serves as one of London’s longest standing centres of public recreation, education and entertainment. Ally Pally hosts everything from music concerts to food festivals and boxing matches, yet one of its most sought after, free, attractions is the skyline view which awaits at the top.

Epsom Downs | Epsom

This viewpoint sits on the periphery of London and is reachable by National Rail. Despite being slightly further afield, the view from Epsom Downs Racecourse presents London in a whole new light. With sights spanning from Wembley to Canary Wharf and every skyscraper in between, this outer London spot is ideal for contemplation, firework watching, casual walks and even rounds of golf.

Did we miss any free London views?

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Lara Mills

Lara Mills – I am a contributor for To Do List. My favourite features of offbeat London centre around cheap eating, hidden drinking destinations, photographer hotspots, city views, quiet places to work as well as the latest pop ups and exhibitions.