Photos by pro photographer, Jon Reid for SNAPP Guides; smart destination guides for photographers
1) Holland Park
Travel to: Holland Park tube station
About this spot: Set in one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, the park contains semi-wild woodland as well as two Japanese gardens — the Kyoto Garden (1991) and Fukushima Memorial Garden (2012)
What to photograph: Magnolia blossom and tulips mid spring, woodland, the formal gardens, waterfalls and ornate ornaments… and maybe the resident peacocks!
2) Two Temple Place
Travel to: Temple tube station
About this spot: One of London’s hidden gems. A neo-Gothic mansion used today for exhibitions and private events. Check here for the next public open exhibition or become a Friend of 2 Temple Place for private organised tours.
What to photograph: Architectural details and rooms within the mansion and in particular its ornate staircase and carvings.
3) Renaissance St Pancras
Travel to: King’s Cross St Pancras tube station
About this spot: Built in 1873 and renovated in 2011, this luxurious 5-star London hotel has a long history of providing elegant accommodation to high society. The Renaissance hotel forms the splendid frontispiece of St Pancras International railway station.
What to photograph: Remnants from the golden age of travel, Victorian architectural splendours of the Renaissance Hotel building including George Gilbert Scott’s Grand Staircase
4) Syon Park
Travel to: Gunnersbury tube station
About this spot: London residence of the Duke of Northumberland, Syon House is the last surviving ducal residence complete with its country estate in Greater London. This 16th C house and gardens will transport you into deep countryside and yet are just 9 miles from Charing Cross.
What to photograph: Magnificent state and private apartments, the spectacular Great Conservatory and 40 acres of gardens.
5) Neasden Temple
Travel to: Stonebridge Park Station / Neasden tube station
About this spot: Enjoy peace and tranquility here at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden, hindu temple and masterpiece of exquisite Indian design and workmanship within the borders of London…just!
What to photograph: The richly decorated exterior of the temple provides plenty of opportunities for a unique take on London. Photographing the interior and religious rituals is not permitted and you should be respectful of customs at all times.
For more details on these and other incredible locations, check out Jon Reid’s guide to photographing London in our SNAPP Guides collection (Available in the App Store & coming soon on Android)
