Top 5 London views

Get a different perspective on the capital with a bird's-eye view of the sights.

The walkways across the top of the bridge are more than 140ft high, so you get a commanding view of the Thames. There's also an interactive computer display of some of the city's highlights. You can buy a money-saving joint ticket to visit the Monument at the same time. Tower Bridge Experience, London SE1. (020-7403 3761). £4.50, child £3. Open 9.30am-6pm (last admission 5pm).

THE MONUMENT

It's 311 steps (212ft) to the top of this Doric column, specially built to commemorate the Great Fire Of London by Sir Christopher Wren, but it's worth the effort. Once there, you'll have a spectacular panoramic view over the capital. To prove you toiled your way to the top, they even hand you a certificate. 9.30am-5pm. The Monument, Monument Street, EC2 (020-7626 2717). £1.50, under-16s 50p.

TATE MODERN

Head upstairs to the café at level 7 of Tate Modern for a cultural room with an inspired view. With a fine city panorama, (in particular the Millennium Bridge and St Paul's Cathedral), plus a child-friendly café complete with kids' menu, it's the height of good taste. Tate Modern (020-7887 8000), Bankside, SE1. Sun-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri & Sat 10am-9.30pm.

THE LONDON EYE

The Eye is 443ft high, so even on a grey winter's day you can still get a fairly spectacular view across London from one of its pods. The 'flight' is one revolution (lasting 30 minutes) and the turning motion is barely perceptible. On a good day you can see up to 25 miles away. Check out the website if you want to coincide your trip with sunset over London.

9.30am-8pm. British Airways London Eye, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 (0870 5000600), www.londoneye.com. £10.50, child aged five-15 £5, under-fives free.

PRIMROSE HILL

It's not just the gobsmacking 360° view over London that makes this spot a haven. Insulated from the noise of London traffic (ideal for those in search of a quiet moment), you can still hear the calming sound of the tropical birds from the aviary at nearby London Zoo. Primrose Hill, NW3.