London’s Thames River is not just a picturesque waterway; it’s also the backdrop for some of the city’s most Instagrammable spots. From iconic landmarks to cultural hotspots, here’s the rundown of the top attractions along the Thames that will have you snapping away and flooding your social media feed with stunning London shots.
1. Big Ben
Topping the charts with a staggering 3.5 million Instagram posts, Big Ben, or more precisely, the Elizabeth Tower (though most folks just call it Big Ben), is the undisputed king of Instagrammable landmarks. Standing tall at 93 metres, this clock tower has been a British icon since the 19th century and is a must-have on any London itinerary.
2. London Eye
Hot on Big Ben’s heels is the London Eye, with 3.5 million posts under the hashtag #londoneye. This giant observation wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s skyline from its 443-foot height. It’s the perfect spot to capture those “I’m on top of the world” moments.
3. Tower Bridge
With 2.9 million hashtagged posts, Tower Bridge takes third place. Known for its stunning design and impressive views, this bridge is not just a pretty face. You can walk across its high-level walkways and witness one of the famous bridge lifts, making for some truly unique photo ops.
4. Tower of London
Historic Royal Palaces. Rufus Murly-Gotto, 3, and Ruby McMenamy, 9, get training at Knight School at the Tower of London, January 9 2018. Knight School is an immersive, hands-on live interpretation offer running over February HT designed to appeal to domestic family visitors, both for first time and repeat visits.
The Tower of London, with 700,841 posts, is fourth on our list. This historic fortress has been a royal palace, prison, and even a zoo at different points in history. Highlights include the Crown Jewels and the Traitors’ Gate, offering a rich historical backdrop for your photos.
5. St Paul’s Cathedral
Ranked fifth, St Paul’s Cathedral boasts 581,990 posts. Its 365-foot high dome, whispering gallery, and detailed mosaics make it a treasure for both history lovers and Instagram enthusiasts. The cathedral crypt also houses memorials to famous figures like Lord Nelson and Florence Nightingale.
6. Westminster Bridge
Westminster Bridge, with 149,485 posts, comes in sixth place. It’s the perfect spot to capture views of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. The lively atmosphere with street performers and vendors adds to its charm and appeal.
7. Southbank Centre
In seventh place is the Southbank Centre, with 89,519 posts. Europe’s largest arts centre, located on the South Bank, is home to venues like the Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall. It hosts a year-round calendar of concerts, performances, and art installations.
8. Waterloo Bridge
Waterloo Bridge, featuring in 68,072 posts, is next. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and opened in 1945, this bridge offers ornate balustrades and bronze plaques. It connects the bustling South Bank with the historic Strand area, providing beautiful views across the Thames.
9. Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster, with 63,751 posts, ranks ninth. Known for its Gothic architecture and political significance, this landmark offers a glimpse into England’s rich political history and is a stunning example of neo-Gothic style.
10. Shakespeare’s Globe
Completing the top ten is Shakespeare’s Globe with 58,320 posts. This open-air playhouse, a faithful recreation of the original Globe Theatre, is a cultural gem. Visitors can take guided tours or catch a live performance of one of Shakespeare’s classic plays.
To compile this list, Thames River Cruises examined Instagram data from 13 tourist destinations visible from the Thames, using Tripadvisor’s “things to do” feature and online research. The number of Instagram posts featuring each destination’s hashtag was recorded to determine the most Instagrammable tourist attractions. Hashtags used included the exact name of the destination, such as ‘#bigben’ or ‘#southbankcentre’.
So, grab your camera, find your best angle, and get ready to make your social media shine with London’s iconic landmarks. Happy snapping!
