Most Instagrammable Places in London

Sky Garden: a plethora of plant life surrounding three bars and a restaurant, on the top floor of London’s “walkie-talkie building”. With a 360° view over the capital’s skyline, this free-to-visit attraction is sure to provide any Instagrammer with a backdrop that can’t even be bested by the £30 a pop view from the Shard. Grab a cocktail or a coffee, and strike a pose in what has fast become my favourite spot to sit and write in the city.

The Tea Terrace, in both the Victoria Street and Oxford Street branches of House of Fraser, is a pretty pastel paradise. Sit in a majestic rose-covered carriage and indulge in an afternoon tea fit for a princess. From the moment I walked into this unique cafe, I couldn’t put my camera down. I’d strongly recommend going during the week rather than on a weekend as you other times end up with the entire place to yourself (far better for taking those snaps).

A lesser known spot for a reasonably priced drink is the Heights Bar located on the top floor of St George’s Hotel, just off of Regent Street. The combination of the breathtaking view and eye-catching cocktails make for some highly Instagram worthy shots without having to spend too much. Plus with it situated next to BBC Broadcasting House, you never know who might walk in for a tipple or appear in the background of your next shot.

There are plenty of beautiful parks in London, but there’s none other quite like South London’s Crystal Palace Park. From stone dinosaurs, to sphinxes, to what looks like a massive bronze laptop floating on a lake, there’s no end to the unique photographic features on offer. Don’t forget to pop into the park’s brand new cafe Brown & Greens while you’re there.

Take a wander down to the South Bank to capture flower-clad restaurants, beautiful brutalist buildings, and Thames-side shots that look like they were taken in Brighton. This area is also home to the Tate Modern (my favourite gallery in all of London), and the Globe Theatre, so there’s plenty to do on even a shoe string budget.

Street performance, Victorian architecture, and swing chairs designed specifically for Instagram photos. Where else could this be a description of than Covent Garden! There’s a reason so many tourists flock here; it’s spectacularly stunning and any photograph taken in this historical market area will surely stand out. Visit Whittard of Chelsea while you’re there for unlimited samples of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.

You can’t think of hipster coffee shops, street art, and vibrant vintage markets without thinking of Brick Lane and Shoreditch. These trendy areas of East London have more selfie backgrounds available than any other place I can think of! Check if there are any events or exhibitions going on at the Old Trewman Brewery, every one I’ve been to has been brilliant (especially the London Coffee Festival).

The Victorian Bathhouse is a cocktail bar like no other. With ornate tiling and hanging chandeliers, this tiny underground spot makes for very a very unique photo opportunity. Pre-booking is essential due to the venue’s capacity, so be sure to check online for the next available slot (it can vary, I once had to wait 8 weeks for an available day, but the last time I went I only booked a fortnight in advance).

- Lee Urquhart