20 best London buildings – a London architecture guide

Formerly called the Collegiate Church of St Peter at Westminster, Westminster Abbey is visited by more than one million people a year and it’s easy to see why. Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, construction began on the present church under Henry III, who selected the site to be the place of his burial. The marvellous gothic abbey is Britain's coronation church and the setting for many special ceremonies, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011 and the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.

Step inside the Lady Chapel and gaze up at its sublime vaulted ceiling, see ancient murals at The Chapter House in the East Cloister, enjoy the Queen’s Window designed by world-renowned artist David Hockney, and head to the West Door to pay tribute to the statues of 10 heroic Modern Martyrs, including Martin Luther King Jr.

Construction date: 960 AD
Nearest Tube station: Westminster and St James's Park

St Paul’s Cathedral, designed by the great Sir Christopher Wren, is one of London’s top attractions. Sitting atop Ludgate Hill, the cathedral is said to be at the highest point of the City of London. Its dome, framed by the spires of Wren’s city churches, is one of the most recognisable sights in the capital. Experience breathtaking views along the central aisle as you enter the cathedral. Admire Wellington’s Monument, a tribute to the Duke of Wellington, one of the country’s leading soldiers and statesmen.

There are also monuments to the explorer Robert Scott and the painter JMW Turner, along with a marble effigy of John Donne, poet and a former Dean of the Cathedral. Venture down to the crypt and discover the tombs and memorials of some of the nation’s greatest heroes, such as Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Christopher Wren. If you’ve got a head for heights, visit the Stone and Golden Galleries (subject to availability) to take in some of the most spectacular views across London.

Construction date: 604 AD (original building), 1710 (reconstructed after Great Fire of London)
Nearest Tube station: St Paul's

Step inside the beating heart of British politics and discover more than 1,000 years of history at London’s magnificent Houses of Parliament, stretching beautifully around the corners of Westminster and housing Big Ben. View the building from the bank of the Thames and admire one of the capital’s biggest attractions and most iconic London architecture landmarks, or head inside to delve into its past and present on a Houses of Parliament audio tour.

Also known as the Palace of Westminster, the Houses of Parliament are made up of the House of Commons, House of Lords and Westminster Hall, where Guy Fawkes – who attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament – was put on trial. Big Ben can be found in the Elizabeth Tower at the north end of the Houses of Parliament. After the Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire in 1834, it was decided the new building should include a tower and a clock. Big Ben first rang across Westminster on 31 May 1859.

Construction date: 1016 and later (original building), 1840-1876 (rebuilt)
Nearest Tube station: Westminster

Buckingham Palace is one of the few working royal palaces remaining in the world today. As one of the most iconic and impressive buildings in the world, it's a must-visit to experience the best of British history and culture. Originally known as Buckingham House, the building at the core of today's palace was a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703, on a site that had been in private ownership for at least 150 years. It was then acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte and became known as The Queen's House.

During the 19th century, architects John Nash and Edward Blore constructed three wings around a central courtyard. Buckingham Palace became the official London residence of the British monarch on the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837. Following major structural additions in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the King's Gallery built on the site of the destroyed palace chapel during the Second World War, it is now a grand palace with 775 lavishly decorated rooms and the largest private garden in London.

Construction date: 1703
Nearest Tube stations: Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner

Founded in 1753, the British Museum in Bloomsbury has a collection covering two million years of history. Showcasing human knowledge in all forms, it was the world’s first public museum of its kind and attracts more than six million visitors each year. Full of exhibitions of artefacts from all over the world, it is housed by the magnificent Montagu House and was designed in the Greek Revival style by famous British architect Sir Robert Smirke.

Travel from ancient Greece and Egypt to Africa and China, or from Roman Britain to medieval Europe in more than 60 free galleries centred around the magnificent Great Court. Highlights include Egyptian mummies, the Parthenon Sculptures and the Rosetta Stone. Although the museum is free to enter, you must book a timed entry ticket in advance to guarantee entry. Or book a two-hour guided British Museum tour to see the highlights and learn more about the exhibits. Make a day of it by treating youself to afternoon tea at the Great Court Restaurant.

Construction date: 1753
Nearest Tube stations: Holborn, Tottenham Court Road and Goodge Street

London has many bridges connecting the north with the south, each designed in a more unique and more interesting way than the last. Tower Bridge connects Southwark with Tower Hamlets and consists of two bridge towers tied together by two horizontal walkways. Step inside Tower Bridge to discover why it is an architectural marvel. Designed and built in Victorian times, it was the largest and most sophisticated bascule bridge ever completed when it opened in 1894, and it still endures 130 years later. In 1977, the colour scheme was changed to red, white and blue to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee.

Today it is one of London’s defining landmarks and one of the most recognisable sights in the capital. The attraction has become one of the most popular things to do for visitors to the city. Visit this iconic London landmark on a self-guided tour, or join one of the expert-led London Tower Bridge tours to hear fascinating insights and anecdotes, as you visit Tower Bridge’s famous Towers, Walkways and Engine Rooms.

Construction date: 1894
Nearest Tube stations: London Bridge, Tower Hill

See inside the Royal Albert Hall, which was opened by Queen Victoria in 1871 and named after her late husband, Prince Albert. This iconic concert hall on the edge of South Kensington is not only an architectural marvel but is unrivalled when it comes to the incredible entertainment that is hosted under the spectacular domed roof. It was designed by civil engineers Captain Francis Fowke and Major-General YD Scott, and built by the Lucas Brothers, known for creating many other famous buildings in London and beyond.

Soak up the atmosphere, the interior and the amazing acoustics at one of more than 360 events a year, including classical music, jazz, world music, circus, rock, pop, opera, dance, comedy and tennis. Every summer, the Royal Albert Hall hosts the famous BBC Proms series of classical music concerts. The eight weeks of concerts culminate in the famous Last Night performances. You can also take a guided tour of the Royal Albert Hall, enjoy a music-themed afternoon tea, or dine at one of the venue's restaurants.

Construction date: 1871
Nearest Tube station: South Kensington

Formerly the St Pancras Chambers, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a hub of magnificence, stretching widely across the back of St Pancras Railway Station and containing a clock tower more than 80 metres (260ft) high. Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott to receive travellers through St Pancras International Station, the former Midland Grand Hotel offered its guests a world of grandeur, luxury and fantasy behind its fairytale red facade. 

Today, this spectacular Victorian masterpiece has been lovingly restored and is being hailed as London's most romantic building. It features gothic revival metalwork, gold leaf ceilings, hand stencilled wall designs and the grand staircase still as dazzling as the day the hotel opened in 1873. It has more than 200 rooms, a spa and a number of gorgeous cocktail bars and restaurants. The Hansom entices guests with its fine selection of classic British dishes or its timeless afternoon tea. Alternatively, the Booking Office 1869 bar features an array of punches and cocktails recreated from the Victorian era, alongside exquisite dishes.

Construction date: 1873
Nearest Tube station: King's Cross St Pancras

Wellington Arch stands between Hyde Park and Green Park. Proclaiming the Duke of Wellington's defeat over Napoleon, it was constructed between 1825 and 1827 with the intention of it being the original entrance to Buckingham Palace. In the early 1880s, it was dismantled and fully rebuilt in its current location by 1885. The spectacular bronze sculpture atop Wellington Arch, the biggest in Europe, is known as the Quadriga. Crafted by Sir Richard Westmacott and placed in 1912, the sculpture depicts the Angel of Peace descending on the Quadriga (four-horsed chariot) of War.

Set foot inside this imposing structure and scale the arch from inside to discover regularly changing contemporary art exhibitions on the top two floors of the arch, including Wellington’s famous victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. Uninterrupted views over Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace await from the balcony at the top of the arch. If you time your visit right, spot the King’s Guards’ procession from the balcony on select days, as they pass beneath the arch on the way to the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Construction date: 1825-1827
Nearest Tube station: Hyde Park Corner

Dating back to the 1770s, Drapers' Hall is home to the Worshipful Company of Drapers, one of London's 12 great historic livery companies formed in the Middle Ages. Twice burned down before surviving bombing during the Blitz, the current structure of the hall is grandiose, with a main function room fit for more than 260 guests bursting with chandeliers and tapestries.

Drapers' Hall interiors include the Livery Hall with royal portraits and The Court Room featuring King Louis XV Gobelin tapestries. The company was founded in 1361 and was originally a trade association of cloth and wool merchants, but is now a charitable organisation. Drapers' Hall is not open to the public, but tours can be arranged in advance by letter.

Construction date: 1530s (original building), 1667-1671 (rebuilt after Great Fire of London), 1772 (rebuilt after another fire)
Nearest Tube station: Bank

The Shard is one of London’s most famous skyscrapers. Renzo Piano, its designer, is said to have been inspired by London’s railway lines when building this 95-floor behemoth. At more than 300 metres (1,000ft) tall, The Shard is almost twice as high as any other building in the city. Visit the viewing area, The View from The Shard observatory, stay at the Shangri-La The Shard, London hotel or visit one of The Shard’s restaurants.

The View from The Shard allows you to go inside The Shard building and look out over London from the viewing platforms on levels 68 and 69. You can also head up to the Skydeck on level 72 – an open-air platform offering spectacular views over London. Top things to see include Tower Bridge, the twists and turns of the river Thames, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre and St Paul's Cathedral. You can also book an all-inclusive experience in advance, which includes a glass of champagne and souvenir photos of your visit.

Height: 306 metres (1,016ft)
Nearest Tube station: London Bridge

The Leadenhall Building, or The Cheesegrater, is another surprising skyscraper in the City of London and one of the tallest buildings in London. It's mostly made up of offices and private spaces, but you can head up to the third floor to step into the opulent glamour of Bob Bob Ricard, a legendary Soho venue famed for its plush interiors and fine cuisine that now has a sister restaurant within the Leadenhall Building. 

The restaurant's design was inspired by the Orient Express, with tables set in generous booths, while the menu combines classic British and French dishes with a modern twist. You’ll also find its famous "press for champagne button" at every table.

Height: 225 metres (738ft)
Nearest Tube stations: Aldgate, Bank and Monument

Get up close to The Gherkin, one of London's most recognisable pieces of architecture. Located at 30 St Mary Axe, it is so named due to its strange vegetable-like shape. It is situated in the heart of London’s financial district and was designed by legendary architect Norman Foster. The Gherkin is often used as one of the best examples of brilliant contemporary architecture in London. Towering 41 floors above the City of London, The Gherkin looks magnificent at any time of the day, but it’s particularly dazzling when lit up at night.

Visit its restaurant Helix on level 39 for a 360-degree view of the London skyline. You can also step inside the iconic building during special events such as Open House London. This event is extremely popular, so make sure to enter the ballot for entrance to 30 St Mary Axe.

Height: 180 metres (591ft)
Nearest Tube station: Liverpool Street

Rising majestically from its base in the City of London, 20 Fenchurch Street is a unique office block that hosts the Sky Garden viewing gallery, restaurants and bars over its top floors. Opened in 2014, the 34-floor building was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly and cost more than £200 million to build. This unique building is more commonly known by its nickname “The Walkie Talkie” due to its unique shape, which resembles a walkie talkie.

Perfect for a romantic evening, enjoy spectacular views over the capital and pay absolutely nothing for the pleasure, with a visit to iconic Sky Garden. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows, this leafy indoor garden overlooks the iconic London skyline. Stroll through the lush landscaped gardens before making your way to the observation decks and open-air terrace. Fancy a drink or a bite to eat? Try one of Sky Garden's restaurants and bars for modern British fare and swanky cocktails, including Fenchurch Restaurant, Darwin Brasserie and Sky Pod Bar.

Height: 160 metres (525ft)
Nearest Tube station: Monument

Located on the south bank of the river Thames in Battersea, south west London, Battersea Power Station has cemented itself as one of London’s most popular landmarks. It is the largest brick building in Europe and is known for its lavish art deco fittings and interior. A Grade II-listed architectural masterpiece, the power station operated until 1983, and once supplied one fifth of London's power. After closure, Battersea Power Station lay derelict for nearly 30 years, before restoration began and the landmark opened to the public in October 2022.

Battersea Power Station – with its distinctive chimneys – featured on the cover of Pink Floyd's 1977 album Animals, as well as in the Beatles’ film Help!, some episodes of Doctor Who and many international movies. Today, you can enjoy more than 140 shops, restaurants, bars and unique experiences in and around this unique and historical landmark. Lift 109 takes you to the very top of one of the chimneys, where you can enjoy panoramic views.

Construction date: 1929-1941
Nearest Tube station: Battersea Power Station

A visit to London isn't complete without a trip to Tate Modern. Britain's national museum of modern and contemporary art from around the world is housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the banks of the Thames. Originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the architect of Battersea Power Station, the power station was built in two stages between 1947 and 1963, and then closed in 1981. It wasn't until 1994 that the Tate Gallery took over and hired renowned architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron to convert it into an art gallery.

Today, the awe-inspiring Turbine Hall runs the length of the entire building and you can see amazing work for free by artists such as Cézanne, Bonnard, Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, DalÍ­, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois.

Construction date: 1947-1963 (original power station), 1995-2000 (Tate gallery)
Nearest Tube stations: Southwark and Blackfriars

The National Theatre building on the South Bank is one of London’s foremost brutalist structures. It was designed by architects Sir Denys Landun and Peter Softley and built in three stages, beginning in the 1970s. Its many interesting terraces and foyers surround four separate auditoria and have regularly been used for experimental outdoor theatre.

Dip into a broad range of entertaining and challenging productions at the National Theatre, spanning classics, spectacular musicals, new plays and family entertainment. Via National Theatre Live, it also broadcasts top British shows to more than 2,500 venues in 65 countries.

Construction date: 1976
Nearest Tube stations: Embankment and Waterloo

Another of London’s brutalist structures, the Barbican Centre hosts regular film screenings, art exhibitions and other events. Comprising two theatres, a concert hall, a library, an art gallery, three cinemas, a conservatory, offices, restaurant, shops and foyers, it is surrounded by the Barbican Housing Estate, making it tricky to navigate round its multiple entrances but giving it a unique architectural feel.

The sprawling arts centre is also the base of the London Symphony Orchestra and has a packed calendar of classical music, dance, theatre and more.

Construction date: 1971-1982
Nearest Tube station: Barbican

Formerly known as the Millennium Dome, The O2 is a strikingly futuristic London building and one of the world's most popular entertainment venues. The dome was originally built to house the Millennium Experience, a government-backed exhibition celebrating the start of the 21st century. It's been known as The O2 since 2005 after an extensive redevelopment as a concert arena and entertainment centre.

Today, it also houses plenty of bars, restaurants, entertainment venues, as well as Up at The O2, an exhilarating 90-minute climb over the roof of the iconic structure. See a different side of the city, by day, at twilight or at sunset. Clip onto the walkway and go on up, accompanied by an expert guide.

Construction date: 1999
Nearest Tube station: North Greenwich

One of South Bank's most distinctive buildings, the historic Oxo Tower Wharf is a local design hub and renowned London landmark. A formerly industrial building built in 1929, since the 1990s it has been home to dozens of independent artisans and design studios, as well as shops, cafes and restaurants. Head up to the Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie on the top floor for an unforgettable meal with sweeping views.

With advertising rules forbidding skyline ads along the Thames in the late 1920s, the Liebig Extract of Meat Company, who had just acquired the building (initially called Stamford Wharf), turned to the inventive architect Albert Moore for ideas to promote their most famous product: OXO beef cubes. Moore took on the challenge and cleverly wove OXO's branding right into the building’s architecture. He designed windows shaped like the letters "OXO", a brilliant move that sidestepped the advertising ban while putting the brand front and centre.

Other remarkable 1930s art deco buildings in London include the Adelphi Theatre on The Strand and Southgate Tube Station in north London – one of the best known station designs of architect Charles Holden, the Grade-II listed building is topped by a striking circular illuminated feature.

Construction date: 1929
Nearest Tube station: Southwark Underground Station