5 places to see incredible views of the London skyline, including Primrose Hill

Almost certainly not the inspiration for the glossy US teen TV drama, One Tree Hill stands between Forest Hill and Brockley, and offers an unexpectedly breathtaking view of London to the north. Climb the steps to the summit and the cityscape is framed by hybrid black poplars and London plane trees. Don’t just focus on what’s ahead – beneath your feet is Europe’s largest reservoir, while nearby, you’ll find the remains of a WWI anti-aircraft gun emplacement – two bonus additions to the splendid vista. Honor Oak, SE23. Honor Oak Park rail.

Ally Pally was conceived as north London’s answer to the Crystal Palace, and – as befits ‘The People’s Palace’ – its socially democratic views are free to all and stunningThe non-existent price tag doesn’t mean compromising on quality panoramas, either – you’ll be in awe of the city as you gaze over it from this peak. Combine skyline spectating at this spot with a gig inside the palace or a visit to the regular farmer’s market for the ultimate Ally Pally day out. South Terrace, N22. 

Yes, it’s a cliché, but the sight of London from the top of Primrose Hill really is a classic. As a result, this 213-foot hill is one of the capital’s 13 protected vistas: spots where the view must remain untouched by development, so you’re guaranteed a good outlook regardless of how the city changes around it. Back in the day, the hill was used for duelling, but these days you’re more in danger from poshos flying kites. Primrose Hill Rd, NW1. 

Legend has it that this Richmond Park hill is said to be where Henry VIII stood, heart in mouth, waiting to spot a rocket let off from the Tower of London to signal that his missus Anne Boleyn had been beheaded. That's probably bollocks, but the King would have had a killer vantage point if it were true – the view here has been protected since 1710. Generations of gardeners in the centuries since have kept it foliage-free, so you can gaze all the way down the Thames to the City of London. Glorious. Richmond Park, TW10. 

The view of London from beside the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park is immense, so it’s inevitably swamped by a sea of tourists beneath a waving canopy of selfie sticks. Beat the crowds by heading ten minutes up the road to The Point, which offers almost as great a vista, with the bonus of being enjoyed in virtual seclusion. Take a bottle of something and some plastic cups, colonise one of the two romantic benches, and watch the sun descend in the west. Another plus point – unlike Greenwich Park, there’s no chucking-out time up here. Point Hill, SE10.