Must See Sights and Landmarks in Bayfordbury Area

"The Shard is London’s tallest building|© Tim Ayers / Alamy Stock Photo. Daring, awe-inspiring and momentous, Renzo Piano’s spire-like building commands the capital as it soars to a height of 309.6 metres (1,016 feet), containing its own vertical city within. Inaugurated in 2012, the Shard is a relative newcomer to London’s cityscape, but has already become a symbol of the city, something that Piano says is down to its accessibility and transparency."

"The Shard is one of the tallest buildings in Europe and it is a popular tourist attraction as it offers a restaurant, bars and a viewing platform. So, many visitors head there to get one of best views in the city. When The Shard was completed in 2012 it was the tallest building in Europe, but it has now been knocked off the top spot by new skyscrapers built in Moscow."

"From Tower Bridge, walk west along the Thames River to The Shard. You know you are heading in the right direction if you see a building that looks like a giant piece of broken glass pointing up to the sky. This is The Shard, one of London’s newest editions to its skyline."

"Tower of London and Traitors’ Gate on the bank of the River Thames, London|© jax10289 / Alamy Stock Photo. With nearly a thousand years of history, the Tower of London is the oldest intact building in the capital. The White Tower was the first part to be constructed, at the behest of William the Conqueror, who wanted a formidable Norman fortress as the ultimate power symbol."

"Tour the (in)famous Tower of London, and find out more about its 900-year history. It’s had many uses over the years – as a palace, prison and even a zoo – but today it’s famously the home of the Crown Jewels. Prepare to be dazzled by the Royal Family’s riches – I recommend booking ahead through Get Your Guide so that you can skip the line."

"You’ll want to leave the capital with some iconic panoramas of the city, and they don’t come much more iconic than the Tower Bridge. This gorgeous bridge over the Thames has been an integral part of the London landscape since the late 1800s, and continues to fascinate visitors – and delight photographers. While some might say it’s been done to death, I think there’s always a new take to be found."

"The bridge opens and closes almost 1000 times a year (schedule posted online and at the bridge). The Tower Bridge Exhibition provides a history of the bridge and allows access to the bridge’s top walkway by way of an elevator. You can see the river below through the reinforced glass section in the middle of the walkway."

"Tower Bridge has to be THE most Instagrammable place in London. It is possibly the most defining landmark in London, and as such demands a place on your Instagram feed. Tower Bridge is photogenic from each and every angle, so go crazy and get creative here!"

"For a lunch date to remember, 155 meters high at the top of the famous ‘Walkie-Talkie’ building, the Sky Garden offers spectacular views of the city. But it’s the incredible tropical garden which makes this iconic London landmark a must-see. There are multiple restaurants and bars to choose from, but for informal yet stylish lunchtime dining, we highly recommend Darwin’s Brasserie to take in some of the best views of the city."

"A lush oasis from the chaotic pace of London, it will captivate children and adults alike. Spectacular 360-degree views, exotic plants and an array of dining choices await you, and admission is free!. Your visit begins with an online ticket reservation."

"Opened to the public in 1844, Trafalgar Sq is the true centre of London, where rallies and marches take place, tens of thousands of revellers usher in the New Year and locals congregate for anything from communal open-air cinema and Christmas celebrations to political protests. It is dominated by the 52m-high Nelson's Column, guarded by four bronze lion statues, and ringed by many splendid buildings, including the National Gallery and the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields."

"Trafalgar Square is a popular public square located in the City of Westminster, Central London. John Nash was the architect in charge of the square's design during the 1820s, and it was constructed in the 1830s. The public square is so popular to the extent that it has been featured in many award-winning movies, like the Children of Men, Casino Royale, and The Avengers."

"if you are visiting London, how about visiting some unusual or lesser known attractions to?. From parks to underground secret tunnels, to historic ships and free art experiences. For example take a look at Kyoto Garden – a beautiful Japanese garden tucked away in the Holland Park, Kensington."

"We end the list of the 10 most famous skyscrapers in London with Heron Tower, 754feet 7 inches tall, and so the third highest in the city after The Shard and One Canada Square. Built between 2007 and 2011 to the design of the architects Kohn Pedersen Fox, it attracts the curiosity of visitors not so much for its architectural style as for the huge70,000 litre aquarium behind reception, which is home to around 1,200 fish of 60 different species."

"It is also home to Regent’s Park and the London Zoo, and Camden Lock is a popular place to start a canal boat ride along the Regent’s Canal. View of Regent’s Canal from Camden Lock Market"

"Towering over diminutive Ludgate Hill in a superb position that's been a place of Christian worship for over 1400 years (and pagan before that), St Paul’s is one of London’s most magnificent buildings. For Londoners, the vast dome is a symbol of resilience and pride, standing tall for more than 300 years. Viewing Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece from the inside and climbing to the top for sweeping views of the capital is a celestial experience."

"Along the south bank (always worth a wander), you can stop in at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Tate Modern Art Gallery, and even quickly cross the Millennium bridge for a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The Globe and St. Paul’s Cathedral are both included on the London Pass, whilst the Tate Modern is free to enter."

"Modern and stylish, The Danubius Regents Park is everything you would expect from a London hotel. From chandeliers to marble-effect flooring, its elegant interior is dreamy yet unintimidating. The hotel is not just a pretty face though."

"City Social is celebrity chef Jason Atherton’s Michelin Star restaurant on Level 24 of Tower 42 in the City of London. The elegant art deco-style restaurant sits against the backdrop of the stunning London skyline, with amazing views across to neighbouring skyscrapers, including the Gherkin and the Walking Talkie, and out over the rest of the capital. Enjoy the spectacular views from your private booth alongside Michelin star fine dining, with an offering of modern-British cuisine and an award-winning wine menu."

"Situated high up in the former NatWest Tower – which now goes by the more enigmatic Tower 42 – is City Social, the prestigious restaurant of London superchef Jason Atherton. City Social’s views are one thing – St Paul’s Cathedral on one end and an up-close view of the Gherkin next door on the other – but its food is what keeps turning heads. Atherton’s stereotypical style includes British produce, global influence and classical technique, all of which is in full flow at City Social."

"You can also rent a boat to row across its lake (seasonal), climb Primrose Hill for a nice view of London, or enjoy the roses at Queen Mary Gardens. There are also homes located in Regent’s Park, including Winfeld House, which has been the official residence of the U.S. Ambassador to the UK since after World War 2. A great place to have a break or enjoy a picnic (there is a restaurant located in the center of the park or bring your own food)."

"There’s something pleasantly old-fashioned about its looks, at least inside, but that helps it feel rather authentic – you almost imagine it could be hidden away in a small seaside town on the Amalfi coast that most people just drive through. It’s made the old way here, with eggs, and so the gelato really is very good, all very natural and traditional, with flavours to match. Try their coffee, too."

"From traditional Fior di Latte to modern specials like pumpkin pie and strawberry tiramisu, Gelatorino – named after the Italian city Torino – offers flavours for every type of customer. Breakfast in Turin is like a grown-up version ofstracciatella, full of teeny tiny, chocolate chips and coffee – not vanilla – it’s bitter and very strong."

"You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Gelatorino London (@gelatorinolondon)"

"It has a curated feel due to the Duke of Bedford’s enlightened ownership and is very much a chain-free zone. Store Street Espresso is a friendly space that doubles as an art gallery. It manages to be ahead of the game, both in terms of the great coffee, and in suiting the needs of a wide range of locals, students and workers."

"They have two spots in London, with their Tavistock Place spot also serving brunch alongside their truly excellent coffee. For the original experience head along to their first shop on Store Street. No fuss, just really great quality coffee prepared by professionals."

"Modern and stylish, The Danubius Regents Park is everything you would expect from a London hotel. From chandeliers to marble-effect flooring, its elegant interior is dreamy yet unintimidating. The hotel is not just a pretty face though."