12 must-see London buildings

Ready to take a trip through London's hip and happening architectural scene? We're not talking about old dusty buildings, citizens. We're talking modern marvels that'll make your jaw drop. Go beyond the usual tourist traps and discover the coolest structures in town as we explore London’s most epic architecture. So don’t skip the end, citizens, we saved the best for last. Tally-ho! 

Let's kick off with London's skyline, a dazzling display of architectural marvels. In the heart of it all, the City of London stands proud, buzzing with energy. Think of the iconic Gherkin, a pickle-shaped wonder, and the Walkie-Talkie with its sky garden offering stunning views. The Shard, towering over the city, is a sight to behold, like a giant shard of glass reaching for the clouds. Each building in London's skyline tells a tale of innovation and history. Ready for the big guns?

City of London
Our next stop – The Gherkin! Another Foster wonder, this building is far from your average pickle. Its swirling striped pattern, complete with diamond-shaped glass panels, creates a captivating optical illusion. Head all the way to the top and treat yourself to dinner at the Helix restaurant, followed by drinks at Iris bar. Exquisite gastronomy with 360° views of the city? Yes, please!

City of London
A true rebel in London's skyline, cheeky with its sharp angles and glistening glass. Towering at 190 metres in the financial heart of London, this architectural marvel is more than a building - it's a masterpiece of modern design. Nicknamed 'The Scalpel' for its distinctive, angular shape, it's a wink at London's ever-evolving, edgy personality.

City of London
In the same postcode you’ll find the architectural gem that is City Hall. Designed by Sir Norman Foster, its bulbous, helix-structure is covered with a whopping 7,300 square meters of glass. It might look like serious politics from the outside but the 'Scoop' is actually so much more, hosting regular free concerts and film screenings. Chill out with a drink from the café and soak up some culture.

Shoreditch
This 'groundscraper' is more spread out than tall! And it's not just a looker; it's got brains too. 5 Broadgate has been awarded a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating. That means it's eco-friendly and sustainable, top marks for being kind to our planet. So, it's big on style and big on green credentials!

Art fanatics, meet the Switch House at Tate Modern – a pyramid-shaped addition to London´s list of most iconic architecture that’s shaking things up. Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, this beauty adds 60% more space to the gallery. Sitting on the site of the old power station’s Switch House, it’s also home to the world’s first museum spaces for live art, installation, and film. It’s not just a pretty face though – the building’s packed with eco-friendly features like solar panels, green spaces, and natural ventilation.

Canary Wharf
Welcome to the concrete jungle, Canary Wharf. Make your way through a forest of skyscrapers to Crossrail Place Roof Garden, where Foster + Partners have created a woven timber-framed lattice dome that hides an actual jungle. Sit on a bench among the tropical plants or catch a show in the amphitheater – it's a mini-festival spot that knows how to throw a party!

Canary Wharf
Let's not forget the granddaddy of them all, One Canada Square. Standing tall and proud, it's the building that put Canary Wharf on the map. This steel-clad icon from Cesar Pelli isn't just about business. Oh no, it's also about pleasure, with a delicious lineup of bars and restaurants just waiting to wine and dine you. So come on in, the views are stunning!