As a city where history blends with modern life, London is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. This city has amazing buildings that capture everyone’s emotions. Those structures are not just stunning to look at, but they also have stories to tell. In other words, London landmarks represent British history and culture that catch tourists' interest.
In 2025, landmarks in London are must-visit destinations for anyone wanting to explore their history and architecture. Therefore, it’s time to plan a trip and experience some of the most unforgettable sights in the city. In this article, we’ll take you through some famous landmarks that you need to check out in London. Get ready to explore the amazing places this city offers!
Is London famous for its landmarks?
Yes, London is famous for its landmarks. Their famous buildings are the essence of the city’s character. This is because those buildings hold rich history and cultural meanings. Besides, London landmarks are witnesses to changes for centuries. Over time, these iconic structures have attracted people worldwide to learn while enjoying the visual of the city’s historical roots.
What makes these buildings special is how they have kept their classic style for a long time. This effort reflects how London has preserved its rich heritage among new modern buildings. Aside from that, the buildings show how the city has evolved over time. In short, these unique buildings make London so appealing to tourists.
Must-visit London landmarks
London is a city where every street feels like a walk through history. In addition to that, the city has a lot of exciting places to visit. For instance, London Landmarks. Each of them shows something that represents the city’s personality. With its culture and modern life, London always has something new to explore.
At the same time, landmarks in London have become symbols of British culture around the world. From royal residences to skyscrapers, these buildings offer unforgettable memories. In this section, we’ll look at some iconic spots you won’t want to miss on your trip.
Tower of London
The Tower of London serves as one of the landmarks in London. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066. This building has a history that spans over a thousand years and has served many purposes. For instance, a royal palace, a prison, and a military fortress. What makes it special is that the Tower serves as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In other words, it is a must-visit site for anyone interested in the city’s history.
Big Ben
As another example of London landmarks, Big Ben has become a symbol of British culture. Though it’s popular as ‘Big Ben’, this was originally known as the Elizabeth Tower. The clock tower was completed in 1859. The tower stands 316 feet (96 m) tall, and the climb from ground level to the belfry is 334 steps. Like the Tower of London, Big Ben also serves as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, it’s a must-visit attraction in London.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is a royal residence and the administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. As one of the landmarks in London, the palace has been a point for the Brits during national rejoicing and mourning. Originally known as Buckingham House, the building was a large townhouse for the Duke of Buckingham and Normanby in 1703. After centuries, the palace became the residence of the British monarch on the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic London landmarks. Completed in 1894, it crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London. In addition to that, it has a unique design with its stunning twin towers. This bridge has a central pair of bascules that can open to allow shipping. Originally hydraulically powered, the operating mechanism of the bascule was converted to an electro-hydraulic system in 1972.
London Eye
The London Eye is a cantilevered observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. However, it is the world's tallest observation wheel and one of the most popular landmarks in London. This tourist attraction has over three million visitors annually. The structure is 135 metres (443 ft) tall, and the wheel has a diameter of 120 metres (394 ft).
The Shard
Though it’s a modern building, The Shard is also one of the popular London landmarks. This building stands at 1,016 feet tall in the heart of London. The Shard's construction began in March 2009 and was completed in November 2012. The tower's privately operated observation deck, The View from The Shard, was opened to the public on 1 February 2013.
The Gherkin
The Gherkin, or 30 St Mary Axe, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was completed in December 2003 and opened in April 2004. It is 180 metres (591 ft) tall and has 41 floors. The building has become a recognisable landmark of London and one of the examples of contemporary architecture.
Why visit London landmarks in 2025?
London is a city where history and modern life collaborate in an exciting way. In 2025, London landmarks will be even more exciting. This is because the buildings continue to evolve while preserving their fascinating heritage. The landmarks promise a unique experience that will create new stories for visitors. Therefore, here's why you should make London a must-visit destination in 2025.
- Cultural and historical significance: London landmarks are full of history. For instance, places like Big Ben tell amazing stories from the past. Visiting these places in your 2025 holiday allows you to learn while enjoying the scenery.
- Commemorations and anniversaries: Some events tied to London's landmarks might take place this year. These include anniversaries of historical events, royal celebrations, and cultural festivals. These occasions will offer a unique opportunity to learn about Britain’s heritage.
- Royalty and modern icons: London is home to the British royal family. With this in mind, there could be royal events in London landmarks like Buckingham Palace. This is a great chance to experience the royal culture.
Etiquettes for visiting landmarks in London
When visiting London landmarks, it’s important to adopt local behaviour. For instance, Londoners value politeness and consideration. With this in mind, being mindful of social norms during your visit helps you create a better impression. Besides, understanding how the locals behave in public places helps you respect their culture. Let's explore some key etiquettes to keep in mind during your London trip.
- Respect the queue: When visiting London landmarks, Londoners take queuing seriously. Always join the back of a line and wait for your turn. If unsure, politely ask, "Is this the queue?" to avoid any misunderstandings.
- Be mindful of personal space: Maintain an arm's length distance from others in public spaces. Londoners value personal space, and respecting it is a sign of good manners.
- Use "sorry" instead of "excuse me": In crowded situations, saying "sorry" is more common and polite than "excuse me." It's a way to acknowledge others and navigate through tight spaces.
- Avoid blocking walkways: When stopping to take photos or check your map, step aside to avoid obstructing pedestrian traffic.
Further information about London tourism
Aside from London landmarks, the city offers various tourist destinations that you must visit. For instance, the British Museum provides a collection of artefacts from ancient civilisations. If you want an unusual adventure, Big Bus London provides open-top bus tours to explore the city. Many of these attractions are accessible with the London Pass, which offers discounts to enter numerous sites.
When planning a visit to London, it’s crucial to consider the weather and the crowds there. The best times to visit this city are Late Spring (May - June) and Early Autumn (September - October). During these periods, the city has nice temperatures between 11°C and 20°C (52°F - 68°F). Plus, it’s less crowded, so you can explore the city freely. In late spring, London's parks and gardens are in full bloom. These seasons make it a great time to enjoy the city.
On the contrary, the worst times to visit London landmarks are winter (December - February) and peak summer (July - August). This is because the weather is cold, with temperatures around 2°C - 8°C (36°F - 46°F). For this reason, it’s not the best condition for outdoor activities. Although summer has nice weather (around 18°C - 25°C or 64°F - 77°F), the city is crowded due to peak tourist seasons. In short, planning the trip accordingly helps you avoid troubles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London landmarks are not only impressive buildings but also show the city’s rich history. Each landmark offers a special and memorable experience. In 2025, there will be exciting events and chances to see. If you're planning a trip, be sure to visit these landmarks and enjoy London’s rich history and lively culture.
If you’re passionate about construction and landmarks, studying architecture at the College of Contract Management is perfect. In the College, you’re not only learn the technical skills but also understanding the principles of building. Their programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make your dreams come true. Enrol today and begin your journey in building a successful career with CCM!
