London Eye vs Shard vs Emirates cable car

Each has its unique charms, but my vote would be for one that isn't on your list - the SkyGarden.

It's free but must be booked a few weeks in advance. Have a google...the address is 20 Fenchurch Street.

I agree: Sky Garden is great, and free, but you need to prebook 2 or 3 weeks ahead (the tickets are released in batches).

Other great views: across the Thames from the top of Tate Modern (free); the view of St Paul's from the top of the nearby One New Change shopping centre (free).

The Emirates cable car (or the dangleway, as some of us call it) is a lot of fun, but it's a long way east of central London so the views are not what I'd call iconic. You see the Millennium Dome and some regenerated docklands, hotels, a conference centre. It's all a bit odd and I'd put it some way down the list - something to be done on a 4th or 5th trip to London.

Cable car is fun but only lasts 4min and arnt the typical views you associate with London.

London Eye, not cheap, queues, lasts around 40min, you can see all the good stuff and its something most people do.

Shard is expensive, but your stay isnt timed and it has a bar up there. Seen many people arrive as the sun is setting and stay until its dark, when London looks the prettiest.

St. Pauls is £18 and the 500 steps to the top take some doing, but it is worth the effort, no time limit.

I agree, for free, the Sky Garden is great, 1 hour limit unless booking at one of the expensive restaurants. The terrace isn't always open though and even access inside the garden can be limited if an event is on there.

Level 10 in the Tate Modern new section is also great for free.

I'd do the free ones and if you feel you want more, do the Shard.

Primrose Hill and the Monument are also worth a visit for views, each worth a visit in their own way.

Hope you enjoy whatever you choose.

Thanks for the great insight!