12 Top free photography spots in London – Capturing the City’s Beauty without Spending a Penny

1. St. Paul’s Cathedral – The Hidden Gem: St. Paul’s Cathedral is undoubtedly a popular tourist attraction, but it can get quite crowded. However, if you walk to the other side of the cathedral, away from the main entrance, you’ll discover a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts. Adjacent to a traditional telephone booth, you’ll find a picturesque spot where you can capture the stunning architecture of the cathedral without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Additionally, if you walk a bit further, you’ll reach One New Change, a contemporary shopping center with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city, including a unique perspective of St. Paul’s Cathedral. The juxtaposition of the historic cathedral and the contemporary cityscape in the reflection creates a beautiful contrast, showcasing the timeless allure of London.

   

2. 10th Floor of Tate Modern – A View to Remember: The Tate Modern, located on the South Bank of the River Thames, is not only a renowned art gallery but also a fantastic spot for capturing breathtaking views of London. Make your way to the 10th floor of the museum, where you’ll find a viewing platform that overlooks the city. From here, you can photograph the iconic Shard, London’s tallest building, along with the unique architectural design of the Tate Modern itself. This spot provides an excellent vantage point to capture the juxtaposition of modern and historic elements that define London’s skyline.
3. China Town – Burst of Colours and Culture: London’s China Town, located in the heart of the West End, is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood that offers a plethora of photo opportunities. This cultural hub is known for its colourful decorations, traditional Chinese architecture, and vibrant street scenes. Wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, capturing the colourful shop fronts, hanging lanterns, and ornate entrance gates. If you visit during Chinese New Yeat, you are in for an extra dose of festive charm, as the streets come alive with dragon dances and vibrant parades. China Town is a fantastic spot to capture the city’s multicultural fabric and add a splash of colour to your photographs
4. Brick Lane – A Tapestry of Culture and Cuisine: Adjacent to Shoreditch lies Brick Lane, a melting pot of diverse cultures, vibrant markets, and delectable cuisine. This bustling street is a treasure trove for street photographers and food enthusiasts alike. Capture the colourful market stalls, exotic spices, and aromatic street food that line the streets. The vibrant atmosphere of Brick Lane, coupled with its diverse street scenes, provides more photographic opportunities than you can count. From portraits of locals to candid shots of people browsing the eclectic shops, you’ll find an array of captivating subjects. Don’t forget to photograph the iconic brick buildings and vintage storefronts that add character to this unique neighbourhood
5. National History Museum – Architectural Splendor and Historical Beauty: The National History Museum is not only a treasure trove of scientific knowledge but also a stunning architectural masterpiece. The grandeur of its exterior, with its intricate carvings and imposing presence, provides a captivating subject for architectural photography. Capture the intricate details of the museum’s facade, the grand entrance, and the sweeping staircases. As you step inside, you’ll encounter the breathtaking Hintze Hall, home to the iconic skeleton of a blue whale. The vast central space, with its high ceilings and elegant architecture, offers a captivating scene for photography. Don’t forget to explore the museum’s extensive collection of exhibits, including fossils, specimens, and interactive displays that can provide unique photo opportunities.
6. Mudchute Farm – A Rural Oasis in the City: Nestled on the Isle of Dogs, Mudchute Farm is a hidden gem that provides a unique contrast to the bustling cityscape of London. This urban farm offers a serene escape from the urban jungle, making it an ideal spot for photography. With its picturesque landscapes, farm animals, and rustic barns, Mudchute Farm provides endless opportunities to capture charming and idyllic scenes. This makes for an ideal place to visit with young kids.

   

7. Shoreditch – The Canvas of Street Art: Shoreditch, located in East London, is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. As you explore the streets of Shoreditch, you’ll encounter an array of murals, graffiti, and stencil art adorning the walls. Capture the expressive faces, thought-provoking messages, and intricate details of these urban masterpieces. Shoreditch’s ever-changing street art landscape ensures that you’ll always find something new to photograph.
8. For something truly romantic and whimsical, Notting Hill is the ideal photography spot. Famous for its pastel-coloured houses, charming streets, and a bohemian atmosphere, Notting Hill exudes an irresistible allure. The vibrant Portobello Market, a favourite among both locals and tourists, is a haven for street photographers. Its bustling energy, eclectic stalls, and colourful facades make for captivating photographs. Notting Hill’s undeniable charm and romantic ambiance create a dreamy backdrop for portraits.
9. If you’re seeking an instagrammable photography experience in London, head to Hillgate Place in Notting Hill. This hidden gem is home to a row of captivating coloured houses that are a delight to photograph. The vibrant facades, ranging from pastel hues to bold shades, create a kaleidoscope of colours that will instantly elevate your photographs. The quaint street, adorned with elegant architecture and charming details, adds to the allure of this spot. Whether you choose to capture the houses from a distance or up close, Hillgate Place offers endless opportunities for creativity and striking compositions.
10. For an optional addition to your photography journey, consider a picnic at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, my personal favourite. The Royal Observatory, located in Greenwich, provides not only stunning views of the city’s skyline but also an opportunity to capture the iconic Prime Meridian. With its sprawling parkland and picturesque buildings, the observatory offers a unique perspective on London’s landscape. Make sure you drop by the Greenwich Market in the vicinity – it offers everything from vintage finds to street food stalls.
11. Another market worth photographing is Leadenhall Market, a covered Victorian market with its ornate architecture, cobbled streets, and charming shops. The market’s enchanting atmosphere and distinctive aesthetics make it an ideal location for capturing street photography or architectural details.
12. The Barbican Observatory, nestled within the Barbican Centre, offers a fresh perspective on London’s urban landscape. This hidden gem provides a stunning vantage point to capture the cityscape from an elevated position. As you ascend to the observatory, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding area, which include the iconic Brutalist architecture of the Barbican Estate and the juxtaposition of modern and historic buildings. The observatory itself is an architectural marvel, with its sleek design and large windows that allow natural light to flood in, creating a fantastic opportunity for capturing striking compositions and dramatic lighting. Whether you’re interested in photographing the intricate details of the buildings or capturing the sweeping city skyline, the Barbican Observatory offers a unique and contemporary viewpoint that will add an artistic flair to your photography.

These 12 free photo spots in London provide a glimpse into the city’s diverse architecture, culture, and hidden gems. As you explore these spots, remember to experiment with different angles, compositions, and lighting conditions to create unique and captivating photographs. London’s ever-changing atmosphere and dynamic cityscape will undoubtedly inspire you to capture its essence through your lens.

Each of these locations in London offers a distinct experience and presents a multitude of photographic possibilities. Whether you’re capturing the serene beauty of Mudchute Farm, the vibrant street art of Shoreditch, the cultural tapestry of Brick Lane, or the architectural splendour of the National History Museum, you’re sure to find inspiration and capture stunning images. So, grab your camera, explore these diverse locations, and let your creativity unfold