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15 Best London Instagram Spots to Visit (From a Local) [2024]

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Arguably the best city in the world, London is known for its rich culture, unique history, fine food and buzzing atmosphere.

Attracting over 30 million visitors a year, the ‘big smoke’ has become one of the world’s most-visited capitals.

And with good reason!

It’s a place of ideas, an innovator of art, a hub for adventure and a city that you no doubt will fall in love with.

There’s always something to do whether that be wandering the streets, tickling your tastebuds, visiting the famous landmarks, or viewing London from up high.

But where can you find the best London Instagram spots?

Whether you’ve never been to England before or you’re a fellow Londoner, there are always new hidden gems to discover.

So here are the best London Instagram spots you need to visit!

London Instagram Spots: Streets of the city

1. Neal’s Yard

One of the best London Instagram spots is Neal’s Yard, a cute little side street tucked away in Covent Garden.

The beautiful courtyard feels like the colour wheel has exploded and landed on all the gorgeous old buildings.

Full of little boutique stores that specialise in sustainable and ethical practices, it’s a great place to explore for a few hours.

There are a few shops worth a mention!

Firstly, Neal’s Yard Remedies specialises in beauty and skincare products that only use organic ingredients.

Jacob the Angel Café is great for breakfast, as is 26 Grains which uses wholesome grain-based dishes to make beautiful breakfast bowls.

If you’re there for dinner, Homeslice Pizza is said to make some of the best pizzas in London.

2. Brick Lane

You cannot visit London without visiting Brick Lane.

In the past Brick Lane was a poor slum, in the heart of Jack the Ripper territory – yikes!

But today, after regeneration, it’s home to some of the best street art in London, as well as great street food, vintage finds and cutting-edge designers.

A few of my favourite places in Brick Lane are Junkyard Golf Club: there are nine holes to putt and three minigolf courses to choose from.

The Brick Lane Vintage Market is also one of my favourites – it’s located in a massive basement and is full of unique pieces and is fun to explore.

Finally, you can’t go to Brick Lane without having a curry! The Monsoon keep things simple with south Indian specialities.

Brick Lane is also notorious for vegan and vegetarian foodies so there are plenty of delicious options available – the food at the House of Vegan is seriously tasty and definitely took me by surprise!

3. Notting Hill

Made world-famous thanks to Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, Notting Hill is also known for its Afro-Caribbean cultural heritage.

This is because many of its residents had come to Britain following the 1948 British Nationality Act which allowed all commonwealth citizens to have the full right to settle in the UK.

This is reflected in Notting Hill Carnival which is held to celebrate Afro-Caribbean culture after rioting broke out over tensions related to race.

The carnival has become an annual event that attracts over 1 million visitors per year, making it the biggest carnival in Europe!

It’s held in August and lasts two days, and if you have the chance to visit London during this time, GO!

If you’re not around, don’t fret as Notting Hill is home to some of the best London Instagram spots such as Lancaster Road, Westbourne Park Road, St Lukes Mews and Colville Houses.

4. Camden Market

You will not be short of photo opportunities at Camden Market!

The market has been open since 1974, next to Regents Canal, and is a diverse community of creative sellers, street food traders and independent stores.

It’s open every day drawing in approximately 250,000 people each week!

It’s one of my favourite places to go in London as I just love the atmosphere!

The market is located in what was previously a horse stable and hospital.

When walking around, you’ll be able to see metal horse sculptures and there is also a chance you will get lost in the many stable blocks and horse tunnels.

Cyberdog is another landmark that pays tribute to the historical past. It’s a popular shop in its own right selling rave clothing and clubwear.

The interior is full of neon lights, music and dancers – definitely worth a peep!

London Instagram Spots: Cafes and restaurants

5. Peggy Porschen Cakes

This cute cupcake shop is arguably one of the best London Instagram spots.

Its rise to fame has meant that people now explore places in London that they never would have. Instead of going to the same touristy places, people are now venturing further afield.

Most only stop to take a photo, but I would encourage you to explore the area of Belgravia as you probably wouldn’t have found yourself there if it weren’t for Instagram!

Get a taste of what London is like as a local.

6. sketch

This fabulous Mayfair restaurant is probably most famous on Instagram for its “egg” pod toilets!

However, there’s more to sketch than just its loos.

It serves Michelin-star food in beautiful surroundings including a magical forest, chairs wearing ballet shoes and hot pink sofas as far as the eye can see.

I’d recommend booking a classic afternoon tea for £59pp served from 11:30 am – 4:30 pm in The Gallery which has been referred to as a ‘look inside a candyfloss machine’.

7. SUSHISAMBA

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You’ll want to look out for the iconic orange indoor tree when visiting SUSHISAMBA.

This Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian sushi restaurant can be found on the 38th floor of Salesforce Tower.

With gorgeous views of London, both inside and out, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

But be aware that SUSHISAMBA is not known for its cheap prices!

8. Duck & Waffle

Located in the same building as SUSHISAMBA, Duck & Waffle can be found on the 40th floor of Salesforce Tower.

This is where I celebrated my 21st birthday with family and it did not disappoint!

The views are stunning and the food is delicious. Mixing sweet and savoury flavours, it proved to be a unique and delightful experience.

Make sure to get a picture of the spectacular gherkin, part of London’s famous skyline.

9. Pergola Paddington

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For a more wallet-friendly meal, try visiting Pergola near Paddington Central Station.

Hidden away in a secret corner of London, this food court styled restaurant is perfect for a girls day out, a laid back weekend session, or a secret date night. Oh and a picture or two!

There’s a mixture of perspex roof covered areas and open-air spots where you can enjoy the London skies.

There are several restaurant stalls to choose from which gives picky eaters no excuses!

When I went I enjoyed the bacon cheeseburger, salmon and avocado sushi and a pint of Prahva!

10. Daisy Green

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Daisy Green is a little Aussie coffee and brunch place tucked away on 20 Seymour Street, best for secret garden intimate brunches and healthy lunches.

Its interior design is unique with hanging flowers from the ceiling making it one of the best London Instagram spots.

It’s a short walk to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens which is perfect if you want to make a day out of it!

11. Christopher’s

Found near Covent Garden, this martini bar not only has great food, but it also has a beautiful staircase leading up to magical views of Waterloo Bridge.

I visited here to celebrate a friend’s birthday, and I would thoroughly recommend the apple and raspberry signature martini – YUM!

12. Coppa Club

Coppa Club has an extremely long waiting list to eat in one of its famous igloos and for good reason – it’s gorgeous!

Located right on the Thames overlooking Tower Bridge, it is definitely worth a visit, especially at Christmas.

You might get lucky and manage to dine in an igloo just by walking in, but if you don’t they’re still worth a visit.

The igloos are available all year round, and when seasons change the themes change too.

In summer, the igloos transform into a fun summer theme like surf shacks or Tulum paradise pods and in winter, the igloos have a woodlands theme featuring blankets, sheepskin rugs and evergreen trees.

There’s no extra fee to eat in the igloos – you just pay for the food and drinks you order.

The prices are not super expensive, but it is London after all so they won’t be cheap!

London Instagram Spots: Views from above

13. Sky Garden

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The Sky Garden is FREE!

I repeat it is FREE!

All you have to do is book a free ticket in order to go up, and there are also bars and restaurants up there if you want something to eat or drink.

Tickets are available to book on a weekly basis, up to three weeks in advance of your visit.

The gardens are usually open 10 am – 6 pm Monday to Friday and 11 am – 9 pm on the weekends, but please check the website as hours may change due to government guidelines.

Alternatively, there are a limited number of walk-in slots if you’re feeling lucky!

The views are just stunning, both inside and out, making this attraction a must if you are visiting London!

14. Madisons Rooftop Bar

Situated at the top of the One New Exchange building lies Madison Rooftop Bar, overlooking the beautiful St Paul’s Cathedral.

The cocktail menu is priced between £9-£11 which is decent!

The rooftop terrace is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun in the summer, whereas umbrellas and heaters are available for those colder months.

It has a mixed quite posh but also relaxed and friendly feel so make sure you dress up nice, but I won’t need to remind you of this as I’m sure Instagram is already motivation enough!

15. The Garden at 120

The Garden at 120 can be found on top of Fen Court at 120 Fenchurch Street. And the best bit? It’s free!

This green safe haven tucked away in the middle of the city is a breath of fresh air. Designed by Eric Parry Architects, this open space is wonderful.

There are excellent views of London in all directions, with good views of the Gherkin, Willis Building and Cheesegrater!

Each new angle is unique so you are bound to notice things that haven’t struck you before.

Nearby is one of the largest restaurants in the city with a unique skyline view: 14 Hills.

This restaurant complements the gardens with its beautiful display of greenery within the interior design.

I’d thoroughly recommend having a bite here whilst you’re visiting!

Have you visited some of these London Instagram spots before?

Or have any other suggestions for great Instagramable places in London?

Please let me know in the comments below!

The Best London Instagram Spots You Need to Visit. From quirky street art and cute cafes to some of the best views of London from above, here are the best Instagramable places in London that you cannot miss! Click through to read more...

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