Sometimes life in London can be so chaotic that our only glimpse of the fabled sunset is on our weary commute home – but let’s put an end to that, shall we?
We've searched high (and well, even higher) for the prettiest spots with views of the evening rays. From skyscrapers and rooftop bars to hilltop parklands, here are the 18 best places to see the sunset in London for that Instagram-worthy golden hour glow.
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Where To Watch The Sunset In London: Our Local Guide
1. The View From The Shard
For unbeatable 360° scenes of the city’s spectacular skyline, check out The View from The Shard. Being 800ft off the ground, this is undeniably one of the best platforms to take in the sweeping vistas as the sun descends.
But that's not all, since the venue is also home Shangri-La's sushi spot GŎNG and Aqua Shard Bar, which offer enticing menus of signature cocktails, bubbles and food to enjoy with a jaw-dropping backdrop.
Feel on top of the world at one of the capital's tallest skyscrapers.
2. Tate Modern
After a cultural day admiring the artistry that adorns the Tate Modern’s walls, finish with something spectacular.
Ascend to the 10th floor of the Blavatnik Building and relish in a sight as stunning as the artwork the gallery is so famous for, with bird's-eye views as far as Canary Wharf. This space is also home to a bar, so you can even enjoy the Insta-worthy vistas with a tipple in tow.
This is definitely a great choice for catching the sunset.
3. Primrose Hill
Head for the hills and you’ll be privy to one of the capital’s classic locations for a warm summer evening under the sun's afterglow.
Once you've braved the short but steep climb to the Primrose Hill sunset viewpoint, reward your efforts with a couple of tinnies while admiring the glorious cityscape as the sky sets ablaze.
Primrose Hill offers a picturesque vantage point.
4. Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace is more than just an events space - it’s also one of the highest points in London. As you can imagine, that makes for a truly incredible spot to catch the dying embers of the sun on a summer's night.
Take the steps down from the iconic building to lie in the luscious grass and admire the colourful skyscape, or head to the massive beer garden for drinks with a view. Once dusk begins to settle, make your way to The Starting Gate for craft beers, delicious wines and some classic pub grub.
Alexandra Palace's sunset is the stuff of Instagram dreams.
5. Sky Garden
At the top of the Walkie Talkie building, you’ll meet the aptly named Sky Garden. Incredibly, entry is free of charge, but if you fancy being bougie, then you can hang around for a delightful drink at one of the bars.
Feel on top of the world with a cocktail in hand as you watch the sun melt behind the city’s landmarks. If you're wondering where to watch the sunset in London, this is it. We recommend booking in advance as this one’s pretty popular.
The Sky Garden is hands down one of the most romantic places to watch the sunset in London.
6. The Cutty Sark
Visit the renowned ship that once travelled the globe for an unrivalled viewpoint of the humble sunset. If you’d rather relax with a pint, then make for The Cutty Sark.
With three floors, there’s plenty of seating to watch the daylight settle over the River Thames in peace. However, you can also sit outside to revel in it all while watching the boats and swans glide past.
Head to the historic pub for a gorgeous evening.
7. Lucky Cat Bishopsgate
Located within 22 Bishopsgate, Gordon Ramsay's Lucky Cat restaurant gives you the chance to watch the sunset in style, right from the heart of the City. Enjoy 360-degree views from 60 floors up, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that really add to the experience.
It's not just the views to be enjoyed here, though, as their pan-Asian menu is a real treat too. Tuck into the likes of mushroom tempura, softshell crab maki and miso aubergine, washed down by all sorts of creative cocktails.
Savour pan-Asian treats and stunning views from this Bishopsgate eatery.
8. Bussey Rooftop Bar
Bussey Rooftop Bar is bringing us a sunset to be reckoned with. Found rubbing shoulders with the clouds over in Peckham, this joint boasts foliage-adorned pergolas, glowing fairy lights and vintage-style carpets, not to mention killer panoramas.
Mosey on over to watch the sundown with a freshly prepared pizza in one hand and a cracking cocktail in the other.
Pay a visit to Bussey Rooftop Bar for dreamy views of the skyline.
9. Richmond Hill
Over at Richmond Hill, you can take in the panoramic views of the hazy orange sky met by the verdant grove below as the Thames shimmers on. Although beware, there is one helluva hill to walk up to get there - but it's well worth the trip.
The landscape is so beautiful that it's the only British landscape protected by an Act of Parliament.
After catching the Richmond Park sunset, finish the day with a delicious meal out.
10. Skylark Roof Garden
Ah, Skylark Roof Garden. Found ten floors above West London, this lush space totes stunning scenes across the city, including Little Venice, Notting Hill and The Shard, making for a top sunset spot.
Make your way over to this incredibly sought-after hangout to
indulge in things like stone bass ceviche, elevated
burgers (literally) and burratina di Puglia, all
while the day turns to night.
This is definitely up there as one of the best places to watch the sunset in the UK.
11. SUSHISAMBA
What could be more divine than watching the sunset on a spectacular terrace completed with a structural orange tree? Spread across the 39th floor of the Heron Tower in Bishopsgate, SUSHISAMBA is not only a fabulous dining destination for all things nigiri but also a prime spot to drink in the evening that offers 360-degree views of the city.
Complete your evening with signature serves like the lemongrass and lime leaf flavoured Tom Yam, or the vodka and Mio sparkling sake-based Sake Spritz.
Embrace the natural elements on this stunning terrace.
12. Horizon 22
Did someone say free viewing platform? Horizon 22 most certainly did. Shoot up in a lift that only takes 41 seconds to get to the towering platform at 22 Bishopsgate and soak up spectacular 300-degree views of the Thames, The Shard, St Paul's Cathedral and so much more.
The 254-metre platform is the tallest free public viewing gallery in Europe, so don't miss out on catching the sun going down from this prime destination.
Horizon 22 is closed until further notice.
Something good is on the horizon at this stunning spot.
13. London Bridge Rooftop
Looking for the perfect spot to catch the sunset in London? The London Bridge Rooftop is where it’s at! With its breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline - including iconic landmarks like The Shard and the London Eye - this rooftop bar offers an unbeatable backdrop for the golden hour.
As the sun sets, sip on expertly crafted cocktails, indulge in gourmet burgers (including delicious vegan options), and groove to curated DJ sets featuring house, disco, and garage anthems. Plus, with interactive darts, bottomless brunches, and a cosy, heated atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends.
This place is all about fun, relaxation, and those epic sunset vibes.
14. Seabird
Perched on top of The Hoxton hotel in Southwark, Seabird provides amazing views from 14 floors up. Bringing a vibrant, NYC energy to the city, this rooftop terrace features lots of greenery, comfy outdoor sofas and views of the entire capital from its Thameside location.
Watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand - and there are plenty to choose from. Hungry? Tuck into the likes of grilled octopus, soft shell crab and an array of oysters on their seafood-focused menu.
Sip refreshing cocktails on this gorgeous terrace.
15. Kioku by Endo
Perched atop the historic OWO, Kioku by Endo is one of London's most unforgettable rooftops, offering 360-degree views of the city's most iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and The London Eye. Enjoy these stunning sights while indulging in Michelin-starred chef Endo Kazutoshi’s unique blend of traditional Japanese techniques and coastal influences from Spain, France, and Italy.
Pair your meal with their signature cocktails, like the fragrant Padron & Shiso, or sip through a carefully curated wine list. Dishes like cuttlefish nori pesto, chashu pork ramen ravioli, and native lobster with fregola elevate the experience, making this the perfect spot for a refined, yet relaxed, dining affair. The rooftop terrace is a seasonal gem, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience in the heart of London.
Watch the sunset atop Kioku by Endo.
16. Cicoria
For an unforgettable golden hour experience that pairs breathtaking city vistas with world-class dining, ascend to Cicoria. Perched on the fifth floor of the iconic Royal Opera House, this elegant Italian restaurant features a magnificent glass-enclosed, heated rooftop terrace directly overlooking the historic Covent Garden Piazza.
As the sun sets over the central London skyline, it's the ultimate open-air haven to watch the sky turn amber while sipping curated cocktails and crisp spritzes. Run under the direction of acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett, the kitchen serves up an ingredient-led, seasonal menu inspired by Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region - making it a perfect spot to share antipasti, citrus-cured halibut, and fresh small plates as the city lights click on below.
Enjoy dinner at Cicoria in Covent Garden.
17. STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar
For a fantastic golden hour experience, head up to STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar, located on the 18th floor of The Gantry Hotel in Stratford. Offering a stunning outdoor dining terrace with panoramic, uninterrupted views across the London skyline, it is the ultimate east London destination to watch the sun go down over the city.
You can enjoy premium signature cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and award-winning cocktails backed by a live DJ. It is a spectacular setting for a stylish evening out.
Look forward to floral interiors.
18. London Eye
Catch the sunset in London at one of the city's most famous viewpoints, the London Eye. This landmark is the ideal spot for a romantic moment against a peachy sky, or some cinematic snaps with your camera.
To get the optimum golden glow while you're up there, arrive 30 minutes before sunset, then prepare to look out across a dazzling St Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, and more.
London Eye at sunset.
