Iconic London Landmarks
London’s calling, and it’s not being subtle. From Big Ben’s timeless charm to the London Eye’s sky-high swagger, the city’s iconic landmarks are ready for their close-up.
Here are the top iconic London landmarks you must visit, as well as how to get there from Virgin Hotels London Shoreditch.
Big Ben
Towering over Westminster, this legendary timekeeper has been chiming through London’s biggest moments since 1859. Fun fact: Big Ben is actually the bell, not the tower.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Circle line at Liverpool Street to Westminster (9 stops, 16 minutes)
- Take the 76 Lambeth North bus from Epworth Street (Stop E) to County Hall (Stop G) (15 stops, 25 minutes)
The London Eye
Rising 135 metres above the Thames, this giant observation wheel serves up skyline views with a side of wow. Slow, smooth, and seriously scenic. It’s the best way to take in the city without breaking a sweat.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Circle line at Liverpool Street to Westminster (9 stops, 16 minutes) - then an 11-minute walk over Westminster Bridge
- Take the 76 Lambeth North bus from Epworth Street (Stop E) to County Hall (Stop G) (15 stops, 25 minutes)
Tower of London
From royal palace to prison, armoury to execution site, this fortress has seen it all. These days, it’s home to the Crown Jewels and, of course, the Beefeaters.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Circle line at Liverpool Street to Tower Hill (1 stop, 5 minutes)
- Take the 35 Clapham Junction bus from Commercial Street / Worship Street (Stop D) to Fenchurch Street (Stop U) (3 stops, 8 minutes)
Buckingham Palace
With 775 rooms, a balcony built for waving, and guards who never flinch, it’s the ultimate London Landmark. Swing by for the Changing of the Guard and a glimpse of regal real estate at its finest.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Circle line at Liverpool Street to St James' Park (10 stops, 16 minutes) and then walk 10 minutes to the palace
- Take the 26 London Victoria bus from Commercial Street / Worship Street (Stop D) to St James' Park Station (21 stops, 45 minutes)
Westminster Abbey
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a cornerstone of British history, Westminster Abbey has hosted everything from royal coronations to iconic farewells. Step inside and you’ll find centuries of tradition, stunning stained glass, and the final resting place of poets, scientists, and monarchs alike.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Circle line at Liverpool Street to Westminster (9 stops, 16 minutes)
- Take the 76 Lambeth North bus from Epworth Street (Stop E) to County Hall (Stop G) (15 stops, 25 minutes)
St Paul's Cathedral
Rebuilt after the Great Fire of London, it’s seen centuries of change and stood strong through them all. Step inside for soaring ceilings, whispering walls, and one of the best panoramic views in the city - if you're up for the climb.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Central line at Liverpool Street to St Paul's (2 stops, 3 minutes)
- Take the 26 London Victoria bus from Commercial Street / Worship Street (Stop D) to St Pauls Churchyard (Stop SH) (6 stops, 15 minutes)
The Shard
The Shard is London’s tallest building and a modern icon in glass and steel. Home to restaurants, bars, and one seriously impressive viewing platform, it offers a view that stretches for miles.
How to get there:
- Hop on the Northernline at Old Street to London Bridge (3 stops, 5 minutes)
- Take the 149 London Bridge bus from Commercial Street / Worship Street (Stop D) to London Bridge Bus Station (5 stops, 12 minutes)