Top 10 London Landmarks

One of the most popular public meeting places in London and the site of celebrations, sporting events, protests, and more; Trafalgar Square is situated in the City of Westminster. Originally named Charing Cross, the area was redeveloped in the early 1800s and renamed to commemorate an important victory in the Napoleonic Wars. In addition to Nelson’s Column, which honors a hero of that same battle, Trafalgar Square is also home to several extravagant fountains, the famous Fourth Plinth and the National Gallery.

Also called the Millennium Wheel, this observation wheel was built to coincide with Y2K, and today it’s the most widely visited, paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. Located adjacent to Jubilee Gardens, it was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel when it was erected, measuring 443-feet or 135-metres high. Though that record has since been surpassed, the London Eye still attracts over 3.5-million observers each year, offering them unparalleled views of many of London’s most popular sights.

Located atop London’s highest point, St Paul’s Cathedral – in its current incarnation – was designed by architect Sir Christopher Wren and consecrated in 1708. A major sight on the London skyline, this Church of England cathedral is recognizable thanks to its famed dome, which is enclosed by spires. The location of several prominent events over its history, today it draws visitors who wish to admire its architecture, marvel at history or find a quiet spot for reflection.

After the original stadium on this site was demolished in 2003, a new and completely redesigned arena was built and opened four-years later. The new Wembley was given a more modern design, with a 436-foot, 133-metre arch standing out as its most prominent feature. With a seating capacity of 90-thousand and a circumference of 0.62-miles or 1-kilometer, it’s one of Europe’s largest stadiums, and today it hosts everything from sporting events to mammoth music events for locals and tourists alike to enjoy.

As one of the United Kingdom’s most significant religious structures, Westminster has hosted many important events throughout its history, including weddings, burials and coronations. The site on which the Abbey is now built has been a place of prayer for over a millennium, but construction on the Gothic church as its stands today began in 1245 on the wishes of Henry III. Providing a snapshot of British tradition, Westminster Abbey is a living monument to history appreciated by over 1-million visitors annually.

The bright lights and hordes of people convening in this famous London road junction are enough to convince any visitor that it’s a circus. Built in 1819, Piccadilly has become a crossroads that leads to several other locations: in fact, visitors will find shopping, theatres and other sources of entertainment nearby. Lit by its well-known neon signs and with the Shaftesbury memorial fountain providing a place for weary travelers to rest, Piccadilly Circus is now one of the busiest squares in London.

One of the world’s last working royal palaces, Buckingham Palace is both the workplace and London dwelling used by the British monarch. Though part of the building was constructed as early as 1705, the palace was expanded in the 1800s, at which time it became the royal residence. Today, crowds gather near Buckingham Palace to greet the royals, admire its ornate exterior and gardens, or to witness the renowned Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Constructed between 1886-94 across the River Thames to ease congestion, Tower Bridge features classic Victorian Gothic architectural elements that complement the nearby Tower of London. Built as a combination suspension bridge and bascule in order to accommodate passing tall mast ships, Tower Bridge is now a recognizable emblem of the city and one of the world’s most famous bridges. Not only is the bridge open to automobiles; pedestrian visitors can also enjoy sweeping vistas from the walkways.

Named after its White Tower, which was erected in 1078 by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London is the home of the Crown Jewels, and is guarded by the iconic Beefeaters. Also once home to an armory, a treasury and even a zoo; perhaps its most famous use was as a prison – which led to the castle’s reputation as a place of torture and death. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the Tower is one of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions, due to its rich history.

Before we unveil our number one pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
- London Millennium Footbridge
- Royal Albert Hall
- Hyde Park

Indisputable symbols of the city, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben are two of the most recognizable landmarks in London. Though the original building on this site was once used as the residence for English monarchs, today the Palace of Westminster is where the country’s government meets. Located at the north end of the palace is Big Ben, which is the nickname given to the bell that chimes from the instantly recognizable Elizabeth Tower. Together, these spots make up one of London’s most popular and iconic tourist attractions.

Do you agree with our list? What’s your favorite landmark from the capital city of England? For more classic Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.