10 Great Views Of London That Are Cheaper Than The Shard
The View at the Shard gives Londoners the chance to get eye-popping views from the EU's highest viewing platform. But there are cheaper options too. We pick out the best views of the capital.
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1. The Sky Garden
The Sky Garden is at the top of the Walkie Talkie in the City - London's highest park on the top floors. Tickets are free to go up to the Sky Garden, but you'll need to book in advance.
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2. Tower Bridge
42 metres above the River Thames, you can wander across the iconic walkways of Tower Bridge, with amazing views of London's landmarks. And a wonderful glass floor to look down. Price: £8
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3. St Pauls
Head up to the Golden Gallery at the very top of the dome at St Paul's Cathedral, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across London. The only two negative points - firstly, you have to climb the stairs yourself and secondly, you won't be able to see St Paul's on the skyline. Price: £14.50
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4. Parliament Hill
Possibly the best free view in London, a short, sharp walk up the hill in the north London park and you will get a perfect view of the London skyline. The view from Alexandra Palace will give you a similar panoramic experience.
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5. Cheap Views of London Tate Modern
Get some art with your view and head to the Tate Modern. The restaurant on Level 6 of the gallery gives you the best view of St Paul's Cathedral in all of London. Price: Free entry
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6. Galvin At Windows
OK, the Michelin-starred restaurant is not cheap, but you won't find a better combination of food and views in London. A lunch set menu for 2 courses will cost £25, or a Budvar at the bar will set you back £7.50.
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7. Up At The O2
Similar to the climb of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, you can don a fetching jumpsuit and climb on to the top of the concert venue in Greenwich. Price: £22
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8. King Henry's Mound
Head to the top of Richmond Park and there is one of London's most perfect protected sightlines. A telescope will let you see through the trees all the way to St Paul's Cathedral. Look the other way and you can see Windsor Castle. And it's free - even down to the parking.
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9. Emirates Air Line
London's cable car is a five-minute journey from Greenwich to the Royal Victoria Docks, taking you very close to the O2 Arena and skyscrapers in The City. Price: The same as a single tube fare.
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10. Monument
You'll need to be fit to climb to the top of the 161-metre Monument for the Great Fire of London, but for just £3, you'll be treated to a terrific view of the capital. Price: £3
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11. The Shard
It may be expensive, but the view from the top of the Shard really can't be beaten. Price: £25
