Sunrise and Sunsetin London, United Kingdom

London's position along the west-east flowing Thames and its many elevated parks provide excellent conditions for watching sunrise and sunset. Several hilltop viewpoints in the north and southeast offer unobstructed sightlines across the city skyline.

Best sunrise spots in London

1. Parliament Hill

   This 98-metre hilltop on Hampstead Heath faces east with a wide, unobstructed view across the London skyline. Free and open 24 hours; nearest tube stations are Tufnell Park (Northern Line, 12 min walk) and Gospel Oak Overground.

2. Greenwich Park

   The slope below the Royal Observatory faces east toward Canary Wharf and the Thames bend. Free entry, gates open at 6 am. Closest stop: Cutty Sark DLR, 5-minute walk uphill.

3. Alexandra Palace

   North London's highest public viewpoint at 100 metres, with a clear eastern horizon stretching from the City to Essex. Free park access around the clock. Alexandra Palace rail station is a 10-minute uphill walk.

4. Primrose Hill

   The 78-metre summit provides a 180-degree panorama with clear views toward the east over Regent's Park and the City. Open 24 hours, free. Chalk Farm tube (Northern Line) is 7 minutes away on foot.

5. Waterloo Bridge

   Looking east from the bridge, sunrise frames St Paul's Cathedral and the City skyline directly ahead. The pavement is wide enough to stop without blocking foot traffic. Nearest tubes: Waterloo or Temple, each 4 minutes away.

Best sunset spots in London

1. Sky Garden

   Indoor viewing garden on the 35th floor of 20 Fenchurch Street with floor-to-ceiling west-facing windows. Free entry, but advance booking at skygarden.london is required. Nearest tube: Monument, 2-minute walk.

2. Tower Bridge

   The west-facing walkway offers a straight view along the Thames toward the City and St Paul's dome. The lower pedestrian path is free; the upper glass walkway costs around 12 GBP. Nearest tube: Tower Hill.

3. Primrose Hill

   Faces south-southwest with an unblocked view of the BT Tower, the Shard, and the setting sun behind the West End rooftops. Popular with locals on summer evenings, so arrive early for a good spot on the grass.

4. Waterloo Bridge

   The western view takes in the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and a long stretch of the Thames. Often called London's best sunset viewpoint; the bridge's elevation above the river keeps the horizon low and open.