London Airbnb Alternatives with the Best Views

Will it be Westminster Abbey or the Shard? Find the London view you want to wake up to

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Sunset across the Thames, London

While London may not have the most impressive city skyline in the world (NYC, you've arguably outdone us there), there are still plenty of stellar views to take in. Now, attempting to take in all of London's sights in one trip isn't completely feasible, so why not book a home where you can enjoy some of the sights, even if just from a distance? Featuring iconic sights like Westminster Abbey and unexpected green urban oases, discover some great alternatives to London Airbnbs with the best views with this exclusive selection of homes. Here at Plum Guide, we pride ourselves on offering only the very best accommodation, with just 3% of homes making the cut, so you know a stay with us is a stay of guaranteed quality.

The Celestine

The Celestine, Plum Guide home in London

The Celestine, Plum Guide home in London

With impeccable interiors and impressive views, we're not sure whether we're more obsessed with the indoor or outdoor spaces of this apartment. Ultimately, the skyline panoramas and expansive balcony are what make this a rare find, though the light-filled living area gives both a run for its money. You can even admire the scenery while lounging on the sofa, and one of the bedrooms boasts direct access to the terrace. It's nestled in Islington, just a short walk from the canal and about twenty minutes from the bars, shops, and delicious eateries in Angel.

The Art of Battersea

The Art of Battersea, Plum Guide home in London

The Art of Battersea, Plum Guide home in London

A bit further away but no less impressive, this Plum Guide exclusive offers not one but two private outdoor spaces. Our favourite is the roof terrace with its desirable city views – imagine enjoying your cuppa out here each morning. The second boasts an alfresco dining space and a barbecue ideal for summer evenings, with some bold street art adding a pop of colour. That artsy vibe continues inside, where vibrant prints are displayed on the moody blue walls. Based in Battersea, heading to central London is easy. There's a collection of shops and eateries within walking distance, but Queenstown Road station is a short stroll away and has direct links to Waterloo by train.

Flashes of Brilliance

Flashes of Brilliance, Plum Guide home in London

Flashes of Brilliance, Plum Guide home in London

As one of London's bustling financial districts, Canary Wharf is a great place to call home if you're travelling for business. This apartment not only has worker bees covered with its separate study, but the wraparound terrace boasts fantastic views across London and the Wharf. Second to the panoramas are the high-end features here, ranging from a cinema screen projector to a lavish soaker bath. It's a fantastic choice for those seeking a luxurious stay with vistas to match.

The London Observatory

The London Observatory, Plum Guide home in London

The London Observatory, Plum Guide home in London

The hint is in the name. Another Plum Gudie exclusive, this stylish Elephant and Castle abode offers jaw-dropping views of the city. Plant yourself on the uber-comfy sofa or relax on the balcony and see how many iconic sights you can spot in one sitting. We've got six so far, including The Shard and the Eye. When it comes to London Airbnbs with the best views, this is hard to beat.

The Harpy Houseboat

The Harpy Houseboat, Plum Guide home in London

The Harpy Houseboat, Plum Guide home in London

This has got to be one of the most amazing views in London. Moored near Tower Bridge on the Thames’ south bank, this impressive home is the former 'HMS Harpy’, and certainly belongs on this list of London Airbnbs with the best views. Once an Edwardian base for customs and excise officers, as well as a landing stage for King George V, it’s now a unique and beautifully maintained floating home. The oldest and one of the largest on the river, The Harpy Houseboat is unlike purpose-built houseboats - all the cabins are above water level with river views that you will not forget in a hurry. Make sure to dine out on the deck and watch the sun set over the London horizon.

The Artist's Chalkboard

The Artist's Chalkboard, Plum Guide home in London

The Artist's Chalkboard, Plum Guide home in London

Swap skyline views for leafy scenery at this cosy home on the cusp of Paddington. This area is known for its tree-lined streets and quintessential London townhomes – and the small balcony provides a glimpse of both. Overlooking a lush garden square, you'll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle here. Although there isn't a traditional TV (your host can arrange a projector), the books and piano provide plenty of indoor entertainment. That said, our favourite spot is the quaint balcony, where you can perch with a cup of tea and admire the greenery.

Penthouse Perspective

Penthouse Perspective, Plum Guide home in London

Penthouse Perspective, Plum Guide home in London

Want a panoramic view of the city from a chic central London location? It doesn’t get much better than Penthouse Perspective. You’ve got the Shard, the Gherkin, and St. Paul’s Cathedral directly in your line of sight from the envy-inducing wraparound terrace. It’s even more spectacular in the evenings, so why not watch the city light up over a round of rooftop cocktails?

Buena Vista

Buena Vista, Plum Guide home in London

Buena Vista, Plum Guide home in London

We think St. Katharine’s Dock may be one of the most underrated parts of London. Discover it from Buena Vista, a fuss-free apartment with views of the picturesque marina and its boats. You’re close to many great riverside walks (and, more importantly, riverside pubs) here, not to mention a quick ten-minute stroll from all the shops and eateries in London Bridge. It's small, so although two guests could squeeze in on the sofa bed, we think it's best for a couple or a solo traveller. But, for a central pad steps from the water, you can't beat it.

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Written by

Maha is a freelance writer and digital marketing consultant. She’s based in London, but is happiest working from sunnier destinations around the world. Her (current) obsessions include baby alpacas, iced coffees, planning far-flung adventures and binge watching Netflix true-crime documentaries.


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