London’s financial district and the Tower of London, seen from the Tower Bridge across the River Thames. Notable among the gleaming skyscrapers, from left to right, are 20 Fenchurch Street, the Leadenhall Building, and 30 St. Mary’s Axe. Nicknamed ‘The Walkie-Talkie’ because of its distinctive shape, 20 Fenchurch Street is a commercial skyscraper with 34 stories, making it the 12th tallest in London. The distinctive wedge-shape of the Leadenhall building has earned it the nickname “The Cheesegrater.”
At the far right is 30 St. Mary’s Axe, widely recognized as one of London’s most stunning examples of contemporary architecture. For obvious reasons, most locals refer to it as “The Gherkin.” Tucked between London’s Financial District and the Tower Bridge, the historic Tower of London stands in startling juxtaposition to the gleaming steel and glass towers. While skyscraper spotting in the financial district should be on any list of things to do, this two-day itinerary for London is a great starting place for seeing the myriad things that the city has to offer.
