Must See Sights and Landmarks in Piccotts End Area

"Since it opened in 2012, The Shard has taken its place as one of the most-recognizable and most-visited landmarks in London. Standing 1,016 feet tall and encompassing some 95 stories, this remarkable structure — so-named for its resemblance to a shard of glass — dominates the skyline yet, thanks to its pleasing design, doesn't seem at all out of place when seen next to neighbors such as Tower Bridge. In addition to its office space on the lower levels, The Shard is home to a stunning Shangri-La Hotel and three superb restaurants, all boasting some of the most incredible views over London."

"The Shangri-La Suite is the top suite at the Shangri-La at The Shard, designed to maximise the view of London’s skyline from every direction possible. The 2,000 square foot one bedroom suite is plush and homely with one of the best views you’ll see from any hotel room. Click to read about the Shangri-La Luxury Circle programme which gives guests access to a host of added value amenities."

"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."

"Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike."

"Delve into British Royal history by exploring London’s Royal historic buildings. The Tower of London sits on the bank of the Thames, right by Tower Bridge and it’s an absolute must for history lovers in London. Look around the original structure where some of the most famous (and infamous) moments in British history took place."

"The Tower of London is one of the top tourist activities in London and a great one for families. This is where you’ll see the Crown Jewels and tour the tower with a yeoman warder. The Tower may be better suited for older children, but younger children will enjoy playing make-believe in this real-life castle and fortress."

"Next suggested stop is HMS Belfast(fee*), which is permanently moored on the Thames a short walk from Tower Bridge on the south bank. This historic warship, operated today by Imperial War Museums, will definitely be of interest to military buffs, or anyone with an interest in boats. Launched just before the outbreak of World War 2, this Royal Navy Light Cruiser saw action in both World War 2 and the Korean War, before being decommissioned in 1963."

"Definitely up there as one of my favourite bridges in the world, Tower Bridge is marvellous to photograph both during the day…. … and at night, as a long exposure. It’s also good from both sides of the river, although if you go to the south bank then you can frame it with the Tower of London as well, which is nice."

"After the houses of Parliament, this bridge is London’s most well known site. There are several excellent angles to photograph this bridge from. – A very popular photo to take is traffic light trails going through the archways of the bridge."

"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 magnificent three-floor space, Sky Garden hosts two of the most exclusive rooftop restaurants in London: Fenchurch Restaurant and Darwin Brasserie, and two exciting rooftop bars: Sky Pod Bar and City Garden. Sky Pod Rooftop Bar is open all day from early morning coffees, through to lunchtime bites and afternoon drinks, while at night it comes alive with music, lights and cocktails.skygarden.london"

"Sky Garden is on top of one of the skyscrapers found in London. You can visit levels 35 through 37 of the "Walkie Talkie" for free—just make sure to book a ticket in advance."

"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."

"London's largest, most prominent square remembers British victory over the French in a battle off the coast of Spain. Led by Lord Horatio Nelson, British forces diminished Napoleon I's military power and headed off a possible French invasion of England. Today, Nelson's statue stands atop a commemorative column in the square."

"St Dunstan in the West has been nestled in among the pubs and old printing and publishing offices of Fleet Street for over 180 years. One of the finest examples of London’s gothic revival architecture, the church is something of a hidden gem in the heart of the city. Like so many landmarks, the church was severely damaged during the blitz."

"St Dunstan-in-the-West is the westernmost church in the City. The Great Fire stopped a few doors east, and the church was not burned. However, it was entirely rebuilt about 1833 in the Gothic style."

"Stop 6: Learn About History At The Fire Monument After enjoying some awesome local grub, cross the London Bridge and make your way to the Fire Monument. This monument honors those who lost their lives in the Great fire of London back in 1666. For a nominal fee, climb up and see some great views of London including the unique buildings – the Gherkin, The Cheese Grater, and of course, the tallest of all – the Shard."

"Alternatives (or additional spots) in the area to the above attractions: Southwark Cathedral, Borough Market (one of London’s most famous food markets), The Old Operating Theatre Museum (fee*), The Monument (fee*), and The View from the Shard (fee*)."

"One of the best free attractions in London for lovers of the weird and wonderful is Gods Own Junkyard. Located in a large warehouse in the North London neighbourhood of Walthamstow, Gods Own Junkyard is a ‘neon wonderland‘ full of bright neon signs and artwork, old movie props and colourful retro displays that you can visit for free to take a wander around and snap some cool photos. Built from a 40-year collection of old salvaged signs, the unique space is now without a doubt the capital’s coolest art store and one of the most popular free places to visit in London."

"This showroom in Walthamstow is the late neon artist Chris Bracey's personal collection of work. Walk around the small space taking in the vibrant displays of neon signs. It really does contain all sorts of goodies, from Soho club signs to ones that have featured in Hollywood films - there's even a cute little cafe for taking a pit stop."

"God’s Own Junkyard is an art store that’s anything but ordinary. It’s packed full of bright neon signs and displays, including plenty of vintage items. It’s all very vibrant and fun to see, and it makes for very unique and eclectic Instagram photos."

"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)."

"The Honourable Artillery Company Museum opened in 1987; it then closed and underwent a complete rebuild. The Duke of Edinburgh reopened the museum in 2011. The collection is dedicated to the Honourable Artillery Company and includes uniforms, silver, medals, weapons, equipment, art, and armour dating back to the 1530s with a special emphasis on the 1600s and 1700s militia."

"Located on the top floor of 120 Fenchurch Street you will find the Garden at 120. The garden is free to enter and not only has beautiful views over London, but also a modern style and green spaces to relax. It’s the perfect spot for some Instagram shots and also to relax a bit."

"The Garden at 120 is another public London garden that offers epic views. And even better, it’s completely free to go with no booking required!. While it’s not quite as impressive or high as Sky Garden (15th floor vs 43rd floor), it does boast some unique photo opportunities."

"For a more authentic, award-winning London Chinese restaurant, there's the Chinese Cricket Club. Named after the Chinese national cricket team who played their first match in 2009 and hosted in a Grade II-listed building, the venue serves Sichuan cuisine that focuses on spicy dishes and Cantonese Dim Sum. The interiors match the quality of the food, with bold greens standing against strong wooden furnishings."

"Three summers ago, a group of friends somewhat inexplicably sailed a traditional Dutch Barge from Holland to Hackney Wick and converted her into a floating restaurant and bar. The riverside views across Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and seasonal British menu quickly caught on, and the barge became something of a destination. They've now sprawled into a giant beer garden which seats 300, one of the largest outdoor dining areas in East London."

"Located along the River Lee, Barge East is a great outdoor restaurant in London. Housed in an old Dutch boat, the kitchen also has an extensive canalside terrace with heaters and an indoor ceramic BBQ which give a delicious smoky flavour to dishes."

"Moored along the River Lee in Hackney Wick is the De Hoop, a 100-tonne barge that sailed from Holland to offer seasonal fare and delicious drinks with waterside views. Small plates like nduja scotch eggs with... Top ChoiceIsraeli in The West End"

"People ask us the secret to why our food taste so great, but it’s really no secret at all. In fact, we proudly boast about it."

"Well-known for its child-friendly atmosphere, parents can sit back and enjoy their family experience here. Just two minutes from Piccadilly Circus, the restaurant is perfect for a pre or post- theatre dinner with the children. The menu is sure to please the kids, with favourites from pizza to pasta and burgers dominating the menu."

"Inspired by Hollywood glamour, Planet Hollywood aims to make you feel like a star. The London location, in Haymarket by Piccadilly Circus, is full of memorabilia from the biggest blockbusters, including Rocky. Take in the glitzy surroundings and dine on all the American favourites from juicy burgers to Buffalo wings."

"With themed rooms, a huge cocktail bar and classic movie memorabilia, Planet Hollywood London is always a fun choice for a meal out."