11+ Great Places To Take Pictures In London: Photography Tourism In London

Jul 19, 2022

Last Updated on: Jul 3, 2025

Europe

Are you familiar with the terms “photography tourism” and “photography tours?” With many iconic hotspots like Westminster Bridge & Big Ben, Notting Hill, etc, you will find many places to take pictures in London. 

Now, taking snaps at these places is beyond capturing the moments or creating souvenirs for posterity. For the longest time, photography has been a crucial part of tourism. 

Along with being the most beautiful documentation of personal memories, photography has also been an important tool for marketing or promotion. 

However, recently, the “Photography” part has taken center stage with the rise of “Phototourism.” In Photography tourism or photographic tourism, a traveler visits a place with the primary interest of clicking pictures of the unique landscapes or subjects. 

In fact, I was exploring Instagram, and I found 337k posts with #phototour and #19.9k posts with #phototourism. In fact, photography tourism is cool in this age of social media, with pictures and videos being the primary elements in travelogues, reels, and vlogs. 

Further, editing photographs has now become easier with photo editor tools. Click a good snap and make it great with simple tricks!

So, are you ready to explore photography tourism in London? These are the places you can visit. 

Places To Take Pictures In London: 11+ Places You Cannot Miss

With the rise of photography tourism in London, you can now be a part of various photography tours. The tours include “Private Landmark Photo Tours,” “Night Photography Tour, “Exploring the Iconic Landscapes of London,” etc. 

The cost of these photography tours in London will be between £150 to £265. You can even join a street photography workshop in London, and that will cost you around £515. 

Having said that, these are the best places to take pictures in London.

1. The Houses of Parliament 

The Houses of Parliament

The Houses of Parliament tops our list of best places to take pictures in London. When you are on a tour of the UK Parliament, you take photographs for personal or non-commercial use. 

To be more specific, you can take photographs in St. Stephen’s Hall and Westminster Hall. Further, photography is allowed at New Palace Yard’s visitor area. From the Visitor Area, you will get an excellent view of the Elizabeth Tower. 

Tour And Travel Note 

If you want to take photos or videos for wider publication, you need permission in advance. You can email the Media and Communications Team.

Moreover, if you want to take photographs at the House of Lords, you can call Black Rod’s Office at 020 7219 3099. 

2. Big Ben/ The Elizabeth Tower

Big Ben The Elizabeth Tower

Usually, people take the snap of the Big Ben or the Elizabeth Tower from the Westminster Bridge. However, if you want to try a different spot and capture a better frame of Big Ben, you must go under the bridge.

Take the staircase and take the walkway that stretches along the River Thames. Find your spot with the River Thames creating the barrier between Big Ben and you. 

Tour And Travel Tips

If you want the best snap of the Big Ben, you must be under the Westminster Bridge at around 7-8 AM. The light is soft in those hours and the rush is less. 

3. St Paul’s Cathedral 

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral, the beautiful building and the seat of the Bishop of London, is best photographed from Millennium Bridge.

You can also take photographs inside St. Paul’s Cathedral when you are on a sightseeing tour. The common places for photography inside the church are the Golden Galleries, the Crypt, or the Stone. 

4. Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge

You can head to More London or London Bridge City to get the best shot of this iconic landmark. The Tower Bridge is probably the most popular landmark appearing in the photo postcards of England. 

Along with More London, some other places to Take photographs of the Tower Bridge include, 

  • Butler’s Wharf
  • London Bridge
  • Tavolino Bar & Kitchen
  • Thames Path

So, it’s your turn to capture this Victorian structure and an engineering marvel. 

5. The Tower 

The Tower

While you are at More London, swivel slightly and get a long-distance snap of The Tower, to get the best snap of The Tower.

Of late, The Tower of London has become a great place of interest for photography enthusiasts. 

2024 has been the 130th birthday of this London Landmark and an open-air exhibition held earlier this year to mark the occasion had some rarest photographs of the London Tower. 

These unseen photographs were from the opening week of The Tower in 1894. 

6. Westminster Bridge

Westminster Bridge

The Westminster Bridge, with its Gothic architecture, is one of the best places to take pictures in London. Its distinct architecture complements the structure of Big Ben and the UK Parliament. 

You can take a panoramic snap of the Westminster Bridge, and you know why this landmark has inspired William Wordsworth and many other noble minds for their creations. 

Further, for the best snaps, visit the bridge during sunrise or sunset. 

7. Notting Hill

Notting Hill

Notting Hill in West London exudes a casual and bohemian vibe with its quaint cafes. Further, the annual Notting Hill Carnival is the biggest draw for tourists.

You can explore the best chances of street photography here. 

8. Covent Garden

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a popular shopping and tourist attraction in London. The highlight of this district is the Royal Opera House, which is often called the “Covent Garden.” 

Now, Covent Garden is one of the best places to take photos in London with the following areas. 

  • The Covent Garden Infinity Chamber
  • Neal’s Yard
  • The Dial 
  • Ave Mario
  • The Royal Opera House
  • Flower Barrows
  • British Phone Booths
  • Floral Court

Covent Garden becomes the ideal place for photography tourism during Christmas. The festive spirit is high and tangible here, with themed decor and the best delicacies served. 

9. Greenwich Park 

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is the home of the Greenwich Observatory and the Prime Meridian, and it also has panoramic views of London.

So, it is the perfect place to get fantastic snaps. This YT video highlights three great photography spots within Greenwich Park and explains how to take the perfect photograph of each one of them.

10. Holland Park

Holland Park

This park is the most heavily wooded in London, so if you want shots of avenues of trees, it is the place to head to. 

When you are at Holland Park, don´t forget to take a few shots of its beautiful waterfall and interesting statues.

11. King Henry VII´s Mound In Richmond Park

If you love history and photography, King Henry VII´s Mound In Richmond Park will be an ideal destination. This burial ground from the Bronze Age became famous after King Henry VIII stood here once for hunting.

Further, it was a popular viewpoint for falconry and hunting. 

12. Parliament Hill At Hampstead Heath

Parliament Hill At Hampstead Heath is the best place to capture the London skyline. Further, Parliament Hill itself can be a subject of photography thanks to its association with the English Civil War. 

Restaurants That Have The Wow Factor! Great Places To Take Pictures In London

In London, there is no shortage of places to eat. According to the latest data from  The Office of National Statistics, the city has 9,505 full-service restaurants and clubs. 

It also has thousands of bars serving food, street stalls, and food trucks. So, it is not hard to find somewhere to enjoy a nice meal.

As you can see from this list of most Instagrammable restaurants in London, many of them have invested a lot into transporting their diners to another world. 

When you eat in these restaurants, don’t miss your chance to take pictures.

Here are the details of our few favorite favorites.

  • If it is the food you want to take pictures of, head to Heston Blumenthal´s Dinner at 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA. Call them at +44 20 7201 3833. 
  • For snaps of you dining in unique restaurant settings, head to Sketch at 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, W1S 2XG (Contact No: +44 20 7659 4500). 
  • The dining area is divided into four zones making it easy to get the interesting shots you are after. For more inspiration, click the link above.
  • If you want the sunlight beaming through the window arches to be the hero of your photography, 65a in London will be your go-to place. Visit this restaurant and bar at 65a Brushfield Street, E1 6AA. You can reach out to them at +44 20 7846 6548.

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE card-img

10 Best Places to Visit in Europe

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 24, 2019

Visiting Europe is the dream of everybody around the world. There are dissimilar places around Europe that will delight you while visiting. Below are some of the best places to visit in Europe. The architecture of Europe makes it the best destination for anybody thinking about traveling there. The best places to visit in Europe have so much to offer for families, newlyweds, children, and adults. You will enjoy every minute you spend while visiting Europe. Below are some of the best places to visit in Europe. 1. Matera, Italy The unique architecture, with walls made of pale stones and ancient dwellings carved in the hills, are reasons enough to make you visit Matera. The Basilicata jewel is getting its moment the spotlight as the capital of culture in Europe and Bulgaria. It not only means endless festivities and events taking over in the year, but also derelict grottoes of limestone that turn to restaurants, galleries, and smart hotels with vaulted rooms. 2. Riga, Latvia Riga is the capital of Latvia with close to thirty thousand votes. It is among the best places to visit in Europe. You will be dazzled by the beauty of Riga. The city has been the meeting point for diverse cultures. It has a connection to forests, water, and nature. You might not know that it has beautiful hills, beaches, and highlands. Come to Riga to discover romantic and Romanesque buildings, art deco, renaissance, and baroque. 3. Outer Hebrides, Scotland If you want authentic, natural beauty and local experiences, these islands in Scotland are the best to watch this year. Also called the Western Isles, they offer a mix of the Caribbean looking beaches, thoughtfully preserved the culture and northern lights. Spend hours here in the countryside in the midst of thick, wildflowers, and coastal paths that tower above whirling, wild seas. Air is fresh, views are endless, and nature stillness is close to the soul. Hurrying and technology make no sense in this place. Enjoy the leisure space of life, drink at local pubs, and eat the best farm to table and seafood in Britain. 4. Colmar, France Colmar is among the best places to visit in Europe because of its romantic, charming, and magical destinations. Colmar makes travelers from all over to dream. When you visit, you will enjoy its charming hotels, gastronomy, architecture, and neighborhood of tanners. It is perfect for both the old and the young since it is among the best places to visit in Europe. You need to come to Colmar to discover the Unterlinden museum, toy museum, or the Bartholdi museum. 5. Berlin, Germany It is time to go to Berlin if it has been one of your dream visit destinations. This cool capital has a lot of festivities because it is celebrating the Bauhaus Centennial, and thirty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It means that added to the vibrant art, brilliant food scene, and glorious nightlife, travelers will get a log of special events to honor these anniversaries. Cultural centers and museums in the city will host thematic exhibitions with a lot of lectures, concerts, and theatrical performance that will keep you busy. You will also witness the largest festival of Europe, opening of the Humboldt forum, and the new museum housed in the Berlin Palace. 6. Tbilisi, Georgia With delicious food, cobblestoned old town, and stylish hotels coming up, it not surprising for Tbilisi to be among the best places to visit in Europe. Nestled in River Mtkyari valley against the picturesque backdrop of the mountain, this capital is weird, unique, and wonderful. It has a mélange of eras and styles with great bathhouses on the Armenian crumbling Soviet factories and churches that became hipster hangouts. The medieval old town here consists of narrow cobblestone alleyways, pastel-colored houses, and mysterious courtyards with carved wooden balconies that beg to be explored. There are old churches, vintage shops, and funky ventures all over. The culture of coffee is booming, the nightlife is vibrant, renaissance landscape, and tolerant pumping electronic music. 7. Zadar, Croatia While the majority of visitors focus on fashionable or Dubrovnik islands like Korcula and Hvar, Zadar has its mark with exceptional cultural heritage, public art installation, and magical sunsets. This city boasts of gleaming marble streets, vibrant coffee scenes, and notch seafood restaurants. The walled old town is a treasure of atmospheric lanes, fascinating medieval churches, and Roman remains. The main draw of Zadar is the beautiful waterfront where there is an award-winning installation known as the Sea Organ that utilizes the waves of the ocean to come up with a hypnotic, soothing sound. 8. Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen has been rarely from the spotlight. Considering that it is named among the best places to visit in Europe, it is the most likable, design-forward, bike-friendly city that is not a surprise. It has chic new hotels, dining places, and excellent taste in design have changed Copenhagen into a great attraction. It has a wealth of cultural treasures and stunning architecture that lend this Danish capital charm, but the creative vibes of the city, ambitious green agenda, and clean Scandinavian design make it the best place to visit in Europe. 9. Ljubljana, Slovenia If you have experienced the delights of Croatia or the coast of Montenegro, go to Ljubljana for a mixture of leafy parks, cobbled streets, and cool cafes along the riverside. The young and vibrant capital of Slovenia is getting into the limelight with new hotels, burgeoning cultural life, and forward-thinking restaurants. The city architecture celebrates the rich past and the bright future, with all things from Viennese secessionist and graceful Baroque buildings to modern marvels of Joze Plecnik. 10. Almeria province, Spain Almeria is the most unique, diverse, and very beautiful. It is a strange location where beaches coexist with barren landscapes in Europe. The rocky coastline is long and has many flamingoes for you to discover while visiting. It also has dry riverbeds, worldly ochre-colored formations, and theme parks used for filming. It is overlooked by many travelers of south Spain. It has the best scenes in the country and tranquil squares, spectacular Moorish fortress, and splendid churches. Conclusion Visiting Europe has never been as interesting as now because of the experiences you will get. There is no specific time of the year when you should visit because you can always find something during your time in Europe. There are many hubs of entertainment and enjoyment while at this destination. Plan your timetable well and you will get it all in the best places to visit in Europe. Read Also: Top 3-Week Itineraries for a Perfect Tour of Europe 5 EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY ‘OVER-TOURISM Top Places to Visit in Italy on your next Travel Escapade

READ MORE Marseille

Tourism City In The South Of France: What To Do In Marseille?

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 12, 2023

Welcome to Marseille, the enchanting gateway to the South of France! Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean Sea, this captivating city is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you step into Marseille, prepare to be swept away by its irresistible charms and the myriad of experiences that await. Marseille boasts a fascinating past that dates back over 2,600 years, making it one of the oldest cities in France. Explore the Vieux Port, the iconic heart of the city, and witness a tapestry of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the sparkling azure waters. For history enthusiasts, visiting the historic neighborhood of Le Panier is an absolute must. Hidden gems await around every corner, from ancient churches like the Cathédrale de la Major to the intriguing MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. Whether you're captivated by its ancient history, tantalized by its culinary delights, or mesmerized by its natural beauty, Marseille has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be embraced by the joie de vivre that permeates every corner of this remarkable city. Marseille invites you to create unforgettable memories. Embrace the Mediterranean spirit and embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other. The enchanting city of Marseille awaits—let the adventure begin! Unveiling The Magic Of Marseille: A Must-Do Guide Marseille offers an array of attractions that will captivate every traveler.  It has a rich historical heritage and diverse cultural scene, its breathtaking natural beauty and culinary delights, Join us as we embark on a journey through the enchanting streets of Marseille. In this article, we are going to uncover the top things to do and see in this Mediterranean gem. Explore The Vieux Port Begin your Marseille adventure at the iconic Vieux Port, the city's beating heart. Marvel at the picturesque view of fishing boats and luxury yachts, and take a leisurely stroll along the walk. Indulge in some people-watching while sipping a café au lait at one of the charming cafés or sample fresh seafood at the lively fish market. Discover Le Panier Step back in time as you wander through the historic neighborhood of Le Panier. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with vibrant street art. Explore hidden squares, visit charming boutiques and galleries, and don't miss the opportunity to admire the stunning Cathédrale de la Major. It is one of the modern architecture of the MuCEM. Ascend To Basilique Notre-Dame De La Garde Make your way up the hill to the majestic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, an iconic symbol of Marseille. Take in the panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the basilica's terrace. Admire the interior adorned with intricate mosaics and religious artifacts, and soak in the serene ambiance of this spiritual sanctuary. Delight In The Culinary Delights Marseille's gastronomy is a feast for the senses. Indulge in the world-renowned bouillabaisse, a flavorful seafood stew, and savor the delicate flavors of local dishes such as aioli, panisse, and pieds paquets. Visit the lively Marché du Vieux Port to explore the vibrant food stalls. Grab some Provençal specialties from the seafood restaurant in Marseille. Discover The Calanques The Calanques, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves along the coastline, will enthrall nature enthusiasts. Embark on a boat tour or hike through the rugged trails to witness the pristine beauty of these natural wonders. Remember your swimsuit, as you'll have the opportunity to take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Immerse Yourself In Culture Marseille boasts a thriving cultural scene that caters to all tastes. Visit the Musée d'Histoire de Marseille to delve into the city's fascinating past or explore contemporary art at the MAC. You could try catching a performance at the world-renowned Opéra de Marseille. The neighborhood of La Plaine comes alive with street performers, artists, and musicians who offer a vibrance. Soak Up The Sun At The Beaches With its Mediterranean climate, Marseille is blessed with many beautiful beaches. Relax on the sandy shores of Prado Beach and indulge in water sports at Plage des Catalans. Escape to the beautiful beaches of Calanque de Sormiou and Calanque de Morgiou. Unwind, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the refreshing Mediterranean waters. Conclusion With its captivating blend of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, Marseille promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. From exploring its ancient streets and absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of its markets to savoring delicious cuisine and immersing yourself in its natural wonders, Marseille offers a wealth of activities and attractions that will leave you enchanted. So, pack your bags, embrace the Mediterranean spirit, and get ready to embark on a journey through the magic of Marseille. Read also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India Looking For Your Next Fun-Filled Family Vacation: Head To Aquaventuras Park 15 Best Places For Adventure Dates With Your Loved One

READ MORE Best Hotels In Paris

Best Hotels In Paris: Understanding How They Are Supporting The City’s Tourism Today

BY  Sibashree Apr 28, 2025

This time, I was on a 2-day Paris travel and was working on how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting the thriving tourism scene in the city. I did my case study on the hotels near Opera Paris France, to get the entire picture.  I also had the opportunity to meet the leaders of Citadines Apart'hotel Opéra Paris, which The Ascott Limited operates. They shared their insights and observations with me. Paris had a footfall of 11.2 million during the Summer Olympics of 2024. The success story with great numbers continued as Paris consolidated the Olympics’ success for the rest of the year.  This boost in the number of tourists has further facilitated growth in the hospitality sector. The French hospitality sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.34% from 2023 to 2028.  However, these two booming industries are also bearing the wrath of overtourism in the city.  So, there could not be a better time to delve deeper into how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting tourism so far. Also, we need to talk about how they respond to minimize the impact of overtourism with sustainable practices.  Best Hotels In Paris: Working And Growing With The Tourism Industry Of The City The best hotels in Paris are beyond tourist accommodations. With luxury in mind and an upscale shift, these hotels are influencing the spending patterns of tourists.  France was the most-visited country in the world in 2024, with an unbelievable footfall of around 100 million.  Now, a large number of these tourists look for accommodations in luxury hotels. With their hotel expenses and overall luxury spending increasing, the city gains revenue.  This approach aligns with what Nathalie Delattre, the French Minister of Tourism, stated in response to the anticipated tourism boom in France for 2024.  “We need to work to increase the average each visitor spends and get our visitors to stay longer.” The impact of hotels in Paris on tourist spending patterns extends beyond the standalone tourism and hospitality industry. It’s about the overall GDP and economy of the city.  But the “luxury experience” here is not to scare you if you are a tourist. It does not mean that you cannot visit Paris within a budget. It’s true that Paris, as a travel destination, is somewhat expensive, and accommodations are pricier than those in similar setups in other countries. However, the city offers a diverse range of hotel tariffs. A Shared Market Space Creating Discord Between The Hotel And Tourism Sectors? A shared market space!  This has been one of the biggest challenges for the top hotels in Paris, as they collaborate with the tourism industry to boost the city’s economy.  Now, services like AirBnb are offering more flexibility in booking and better pricing options. So, of course, there is the “price sensitivity” factor. Additionally, Airbnb is eager to seize opportunities, as it did during the Summer Olympics in Paris last time.   Airbnb was the official sponsor of the Paris Olympics, and it played a significant role in the 44% surge in short-term rental bookings in 2024 from the summer of 2023.  Also, Airbnb was direct when it approached the visitors of the Paris Olympics to avoid the “touristy side of Paris" and book short-term rentals on the “Paris-y side of Paris.” Moreover, Airbnb, through the “Airbnb500 Travel Grant,” offered discounts to tourists visiting Paris during the 2024 Summer Olympics.  Now, with discounted pricing and Parisians willing to give up their accommodation on rent through Airbnb, many hotels in Paris have suffered.  "The rate discounting that's happened, the occupancy levels, they're definitely being suppressed and compressed by the short-term rental market, without question.”Blake Reiter, Director of Research, Lighthouse Having said that, the best hotels in Paris have been able to keep their presence strong as they cater to the group of tourists seeking a high-end experience.  Additionally, city officials have introduced restrictions on short-term rentals to prevent Airbnb and similar businesses from causing significant harm to the hospitality industry.  Moreover, in November 2024, France approved an “Anti-Airbnb Bill” to control the increase in vacation rentals.  So, the threats of a shared market space have become less for the best hotels in Paris and other parts of France.  Overtourism In Paris: How The Best Hotels In Paris Respond To It? The best hotels in Paris had a slow start in summer 2024. However, with the Summer Olympics inching closer, occupancy rates in these hotels increased despite challenges from Airbnb and other short-term rental services.  During the summer Olympics, the hotel occupancy rate in this area reached 84%. Of course, there was revenue growth with a higher occupancy rate, discounts, and non-refundable rooms for tourists.  Still, the housing industry could not avoid an accommodation crunch, hygiene issues, safety threats, and other impacts of overtourism.  A sustainable collaboration between the best hotels in Paris and tourists is crucial. It will minimize the environmental impact and enhance the overall quality of life in the city.   For example, The Ascott Limited's sustainability program has helped me understand how the best hotels in Paris are doing it right. They are trying to minimize the impact of overtourism on the city’s environment and natural resources. Showing Commitment To Sustainability The Ascott Limited is sincere about taking care of the environment. Also, it has earned the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Committed status.  Moreover, Ascott Limited aims to achieve GSTC-Accredited Body certification for its global portfolio by 2028.  The sustainability program, known as “Ascott CARES,” is based on five fundamental pillars, and those are: Respect Alliance Community Environment  Supply Chain Also, Ms. Beh Siew Kim from Ascott has mentioned that sustainability has always been a key priority for the business. “The Ascott Limited aiming to have all their properties certified by GSTC-accredited Certification Bodies by 2028 where applicable* is a testament to how serious they are committed as an organization to environmental and social responsibility. We applaud Ascott’s leadership and vision in prioritizing sustainability, and I am confident that their efforts will set a benchmark for others in the sector to follow.”Randy Durband, CEO, The Global Sustainable Tourism Council With Ascott Limited as an example, the best hotels in Paris are also redefining the tourism landscape. They are also trying to fight overtourism by building a sustainable future.