Climb the Monument. This 202 foot high stone column was built to commemorate the Great Fire of London in 1666. An energetic hike up the spiralling 311 steps to reach the balcony is rewarded by spectacular views across the city in all directions. The Monument is open to the public every day from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. for a small admission charge.
Walk across the top of Tower Bridge. This iconic bridge dates back to 1894 and has become a symbol of London, but not many people know that you can take a lift up to the high-level walkways to see terrific views of the city and an exhibition on the bridge's history. The walkways are open every day but the hours vary slightly with the seasons, so visit the Tower Bridge website for more information and details of the entry fees.
Visit St Paul's Cathedral. At the top of a winding staircase above the famous Whispering Gallery, you will find the Stone and Golden Galleries with stunning views across London. St Paul's is open to visitors from 8.30 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. daily except Sundays and there is an admission charge. Visit the official website for more details.
Take a trip on the London Eye. Like St Paul's and Tower Bridge, the London Eye is part of the city's landscape, but it's also a great place to see the skyline. A trip on the Eye lasts for thirty minutes and offers views of up to 40km in all directions. Full details of prices and opening hours can be found on the London Eye's website.
Have a drink. There are several London bars located at the top of tall buildings, from which you can view the city. Try the 5th View Bar at Waterstones on Piccadilly, the London Hilton on Park Lane or the Heights Bar at the St Georges Hotel. Drink in the skyline as you sip your beverage of choice, but remember that these establishments can be a bit pricey as you're paying for the view as well as the drinks.
Dine in style. London has many restaurants with splendid views of the city. Book at table at the Oxo Tower Restaurant on the South Bank, Kensington's Babylon, Vertigo 42 in the NatWest Tower or the restaurants at the Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery. These are just a few of the places where you can watch the city lights as you eat. Be sure to request a table with a view, but be prepared to pay for the privilege as these restaurants can be quite expensive.
Climb a hill. Alexandra Palace, Primrose Hill, Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill all offer spectacular views over the city--at no cost! So walk up to the top and find a quiet place to sit and enjoy. For a special treat, climb one of the hills just before sunrise or sunset and watch as the city changes colours before your eyes.
