London City Airport is not just a gateway for quick travel; it’s also surrounded by fantastic attractions that are perfect for visitors with a layover, extra time before a flight, or those exploring East London. Whether you’re drawn to history, culture, or breathtaking city views, there are lots of attractions near London City Airport to make your visit memorable.
Top Sightseeing Attractions Near London City Airport
Here are seven must-see attractions near London City Airport that you won’t want to miss.
1. The O2 – London’s Ultimate Entertainment Destination
Location: Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX
Distance from Airport: 15 minutes via DLR & Jubilee Line
The O2 is one of London’s most iconic entertainment hubs. Originally built as the Millennium Dome, it now houses:
- World-class concerts and sports events
- Cinemas, exhibitions, and interactive experiences
- Over 30 bars and restaurants
If you’re feeling adventurous, try Up at The O2, a thrilling climb over the dome’s roof that offers spectacular 360-degree views of London’s skyline.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Canning Town, then switch to the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich.
2. Emirates Air Line Cable Car – A Sky-High Adventure
Location: Royal Docks, SE10 0FR
Distance from Airport: 10 minutes via DLR
For a unique bird’s-eye view of London, hop on the Emirates Air Line Cable Car. This aerial gondola glides over the River Thames, offering breathtaking views of:
- Canary Wharf
- The Thames Barrier
- The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
The ride lasts about 10 minutes, making it a perfect quick attraction before heading to your flight.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Royal Victoria, then walk five minutes to the cable car terminal.
3. Greenwich – London’s Maritime Treasure
Location: SE10 9NF
Distance from Airport: 20 minutes via DLR
Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with historical and cultural landmarks. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a deep dive into Britain’s maritime past.
- Cutty Sark – The world’s last surviving tea clipper ship, now a museum.
- Royal Observatory – Home to the Prime Meridian, where you can stand between the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.
- Greenwich Park – Enjoy panoramic views of London from one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Cutty Sark Station.
4. Museum of London Docklands – A Hidden Gem
Location: West India Quay, E14 4AL
Distance from Airport: 15 minutes via DLR
Housed in a 19th-century sugar warehouse, this free museum offers a fascinating look at London’s river, trade, and docklands history.
- Step inside a full-scale recreation of a Victorian dock street.
- Learn about London’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
- Discover how the Docklands evolved into today’s financial district.
The museum is perfect for history lovers and families with kids who enjoy interactive exhibits.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to West India Quay.
5. Thames Barrier – London’s Engineering Marvel
Location: 1 Unity Way, SE18 5NJ
Distance from Airport: 10 minutes via DLR & short walk
The Thames Barrier is one of the world’s largest flood defence systems. Built to protect London from tidal surges, it’s both an engineering masterpiece and a fascinating attraction.
- Visit the Thames Barrier Information Centre to learn how it protects the city.
- Enjoy the riverside views and spot boats passing through the gates.
- Walk along the Thames Path, a scenic trail with great photo spots.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Pontoon Dock, then walk 15 minutes to the site.
6. Tower Bridge – A London Icon
Location: SE1 2UP
Distance from Airport: 25 minutes via DLR
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognisable landmarks, offering an unforgettable mix of history and modern engineering.
- Walk across the high-level glass floor walkway for a stunning view of the Thames.
- Visit the Victorian engine rooms to see how the bridge operates.
- Watch the bascule bridge open for passing ships, a sight that happens 850 times a year.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Tower Gateway, then walk five minutes.
7. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – A Legacy of the 2012 Games
Location: Stratford, E20 2ST
Distance from Airport: 15 minutes via DLR
The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is the perfect mix of sports, nature, and modern architecture.
- ArcelorMittal Orbit – The UK’s tallest sculpture with a glass sky platform.
- London Stadium – Take a tour of West Ham’s home ground.
- Lee Valley VeloPark – Try your hand at cycling on an Olympic track.
The park is family-friendly, with playgrounds, riverside trails, and green spaces for a relaxing afternoon.
How to Get There: Take the DLR to Stratford Station.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a few hours or an entire day, these top sightseeing attractions near London City Airport offer something for everyone. From historic sites like Greenwich and Tower Bridge to modern marvels like The O2 and the Thames Barrier, you can experience the best of London without travelling far.
For a stress-free way to explore these attractions, consider booking a London City Airport Transfer for a comfortable and convenient journey.
