Instagram-Worthy Tourist Attractions Along the Thames in 2024
London stands as a premier destination globally, with its renowned attractions lining the majestic River Thames, offering an exquisite blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking vistas. For anyone eager to document their London escapades for Instagram, the picturesque locations along the Thames serve as an ideal starting point. From historic landmarks steeped in centuries of history to contemporary architectural wonders, these sites are truly photogenic—and the statistics reveal that they rank among the most photographed locations globally.
For those venturing into the city in 2024 with a keen eye for photography, this guide highlights the most picturesque locations along the Thames. It includes expert insights, intriguing details, and optimal visiting times to capture the essence of this iconic river.
Big Ben: The Unmatched Symbol
Boasting more than 3.5 million posts under the hashtag #bigben, this iconic landmark stands as the most photographed location along the Thames, and rightly so. Formally referred to as the Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben stands as one of the most iconic landmarks globally. Reaching a height of 93 meters, this neo-Gothic marvel serves as an emblem of London’s political heritage, with its majestic clock meticulously marking the passage of time for the city since the mid-19th century.
For a truly remarkable Instagram capture, make your way to Westminster Bridge during sunset. The golden hour light beautifully accentuates the intricate details of the tower alongside the iconic Houses of Parliament. The riverside vistas from Victoria Embankment offer a broader perspective that beautifully frames the Thames, creating a stunning backdrop for those quintessential ‘I’m in London’ experiences.
Interestingly, while many envision Big Ben as the iconic clock tower, it is, in fact, the name of the substantial bell housed within. The structure was officially designated as the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
The London Eye: An Elevated Perspective of the City
Just a step behind Big Ben in the realm of social media popularity is the London Eye, which proudly features 3.5 million hashtagged posts. This contemporary marvel offers breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the London skyline, and its elegant, avant-garde design positions it as one of the city’s most visually captivating locations.
The optimal moment to ascend this magnificent observation wheel is at twilight, when the city is enveloped in the gentle tones of dusk, allowing you to seize the shimmering golden lights of London as they start to twinkle. Every capsule provides a distinct perspective of the city, yet a savvy suggestion is to position yourself in front of the South Bank, enabling you to photograph both the London Eye and the River Thames in one captivating shot.
Interesting tidbit: Inaugurated to celebrate the turn of the millennium in 2000, the London Eye held the title of the world’s tallest Ferris wheel, reaching a height of 135 meters. It continues to stand as one of the tallest edifices in the city of London.
Tower Bridge: An Exemplary Fusion of Historical Significance and Architectural Mastery
Tower Bridge, with its impressive tally of nearly 2.9 million Instagram posts under its hashtag, epitomises the grandeur of Victorian engineering. This remarkable bridge, gracefully arching over the River Thames, serves as a vital link between the boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. Its two majestic towers and innovative movable roadway elegantly rise to accommodate the passage of river traffic.
For the most striking perspective of this architectural marvel, position yourself on the pedestrian walkways above the bridge. From there, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Thames and the vibrant cityscape that envelops it. Should fortune favour you, your visit may align perfectly with one of the bridge lifts, which take place multiple times throughout the day and provide a striking opportunity for an Instagram video.
Interestingly, Tower Bridge is frequently mistaken for London Bridge, located just a short distance downstream. The elevated walkways initially faced criticism for their height and perceived detachment from the vibrant street life below. However, they have since transformed into a beloved attraction for visitors.
The Tower of London: An Iconic Historic Fortress
Perched on the north bank of the Thames, the Tower of London is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with a history that spans more than 900 years. Boasting an impressive 700,000 Instagram posts, this landmark continues to captivate both history enthusiasts and photographers, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination.
The Tower’s blend of mediaeval architecture and its formidable stature render it an essential destination for those intrigued by the more sinister aspects of London’s past. For a truly captivating photograph, consider visiting during the transition of the seasons. The lush greenery and vibrant autumn leaves provide a rich tapestry of texture and depth, enhancing the visual appeal of your images.
The Tower of London has held a multitude of functions throughout its storied history, acting as a royal palace, a prison, an armoury, and even a zoo at various points in time. Today, it is widely recognised as the residence of the Crown Jewels.
St. Paul’s Cathedral: An Exemplary Baroque Masterpiece
The dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral, an iconic feature of the London skyline, stands as one of the most recognisable structures globally. This 17th-century cathedral, an architectural masterpiece crafted by Sir Christopher Wren in the aftermath of the Great Fire of London, boasts an impressive 582,000 Instagram posts, highlighting its enduring allure and significance.
To capture the ideal photograph, make your way to the Millennium Bridge, a pedestrian thoroughfare that provides an unobstructed view of the cathedral, elegantly framed by the river. The Whispering Gallery presents breathtaking vistas of the city, perfect for those seeking to embrace a more personal experience within this iconic landmark.
St. Paul’s Cathedral stands as a monumental site in Britain’s history, having been the venue for pivotal events such as the funerals of Lord Nelson and Sir Winston Churchill, alongside the iconic wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana in 1981.
Westminster Bridge: An Iconic Perspective of London
Westminster Bridge, while lacking the imposing stature of Big Ben or the modern allure of the London Eye, boasts nearly 150,000 posts under its hashtag, presenting a distinctive opportunity: an ideal spot to photograph both iconic landmarks in a single shot. This bridge, designed with pedestrians in mind, is adorned with an array of street performers, vendors, and visitors hailing from various corners of the globe, creating a vibrant and dynamic ambiance.
The quintessential viewpoint from Westminster Bridge captures the iconic Big Ben, the majestic Houses of Parliament, and the serene Thames in a single frame—particularly enchanting when the sunlight dances upon the water’s surface.
Interestingly, the bridge was adorned in green to harmonise with the leather upholstery found in the House of Commons, located adjacent to the Palace of Westminster on the side nearest to the bridge.
Southbank Centre: A Hub of Cultural Activity
The Southbank Centre, situated on the South Bank of the Thames, stands as Europe’s largest arts hub, renowned for its extensive array of exhibitions, performances, and festivals. Boasting close to 90,000 Instagram posts, this location is a beloved destination for enthusiasts of contemporary art, vibrant cultural happenings, and picturesque riverside scenery.
This locale boasts an abundance of visually striking street art, dynamic pop-up markets, and engaging performance venues, establishing it as a richly diverse and lively destination for exploration.
Waterloo Bridge: A Notable Landmark
Referred to as the “Ladies Bridge” because it was built by female workers during World War II, Waterloo Bridge provides exceptional panoramic views of London’s skyline. The impressive count of 68,000 Instagram posts featuring its hashtag underscores its appeal to photographers seeking a unique vantage point of the city.
To capture the most stunning photographs, consider timing your visit for either sunrise or sunset. During these golden hours, the light casts a gentle glow over the Thames, beautifully highlighting iconic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard, and Somerset House.
The Palace of Westminster: An Iconic Political Landmark
The Palace of Westminster, characterised by its neo-Gothic architecture and profound historical significance, stands as an ideal subject for photographers seeking to capture the essence of London’s political heritage. Photographing the intricate architecture from the riverbank, particularly in the evening when it is beautifully illuminated, yields breathtaking images.
Did you know that the Palace of Westminster boasts more than 1,100 rooms, 100 staircases, and an impressive five kilometres of corridors? Quite remarkable, isn’t it?
Shakespeare’s Globe: An Iconic Theatrical Experience
Concluding our exploration is Shakespeare’s Globe, a meticulously crafted replica of the original open-air theatre from the 16th century. This location boasts nearly 60,000 posts, making it an essential destination for both history enthusiasts and admirers of the Bard.
To achieve an exceptional Instagram photograph, position yourself along the riverside to capture the Globe, artfully framing the historic allure of the structure against the backdrop of the contemporary city skyline.
These ten locations represent just a small selection of the Instagrammable treasures that line the Thames, yet each provides a distinctive insight into London’s rich history and lively contemporary scene. The Thames, with its rich historical tapestry and contemporary marvels, offers an abundance of picturesque opportunities just waiting to be captured.
Data from Thames River Cruises
