Six spots in and around LSE worth the gown

You've survived the seminars, the deadlines, and the 2am library sessions. And now it's Graduation Time! 🎓

London is one of the most photogenic cities in the world, and as an LSE student, you're right in the middle of it. Whether you're going for grand and iconic or something a little more intimate, here's your go-to guide for the best graduation photo spots, starting right on your doorstep.

1. 🏛️ LSE Campus, The Old Building

📍 Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE (Holborn station, Piccadilly & Central lines: 5 min walk)

You literally went here for the past year (or more), it would be a crime not to get a photo. The Old Building's architecture is beautiful in a quietly grand way, and the Houghton Street entrance makes for a classic, timeless shot. Come early morning on a weekday for the best light and fewer crowds. The Clement House steps and the LSE signage are fan favourites. This is the one for the parents. 💛

Why it's great: It's your place. Nothing tells the story of where you studied better than the building itself.

2. 🌿 Lincoln's Inn Fields

📍 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A (Holborn station: 8 min walk)

London's largest public square is a hidden gem for graduation photos and it's practically next door to LSE. The manicured lawns, tall trees, and elegant surrounding buildings give you a lush, airy backdrop that works beautifully in summer when everything is in full bloom. Grab a bench, toss your cap, do the whole thing it photographs wonderfully and it's never as packed as the tourist spots.

Why it's great: Green, gorgeous, and peaceful. The perfect contrast to the city bustle.

3. 🏛️ Somerset House

📍 Strand, London WC2R 1LA (Temple station: 5 min walk, or Embankment: 10 min)

Just a short stroll from campus, Somerset House is one of London's most stunning neoclassical buildings, and it knows it. The grand courtyard with its 55 dancing fountains is the money shot, but the riverside terrace overlooking the Thames is equally stunning. The symmetry of the arches and columns makes every photo feel like it belongs in a magazine. This one is especially magical in the golden hour. 🌅

Why it's great: Majestic architecture, multiple backdrops in one location, and free to walk around.

4. ⛪ St. Paul's Cathedral Steps

📍 St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD (St. Paul's station: 2 min walk)

The wide stone steps leading up to St. Paul's Cathedral are a graduation photo institution. The sheer scale of the dome behind you makes any photo look incredibly dramatic, and the surrounding Paternoster Square adds even more options. Go early (from 8:30am) before the tourist crowds arrive and you'll practically have the place to yourself. It's a 15-minute tube ride from campus and absolutely worth it. 🎉

Why it's great: Iconic London backdrop, grand scale, and great natural light in the morning.

5. 🌊 The Southbank

📍 South Bank, London SE1 9PZ (Waterloo station: 5 min walk, or Embankment + walk across Hungerford Bridge)

The Thames Southbank walk is one of London's most beloved stretches, and for good reason. The views across the river are stunning, the energy is always good, and you get a real sense of London in all its glory. Shoot with the London Eye in the background, find a quieter spot near the National Theatre, or head to the Golden Jubilee Bridge for that classic river-and-skyline combo. The Southbank Boardwalk is especially atmospheric in the late afternoon sun. ☀️

Why it's great: Versatile, vibrant, and unmistakably London, great for candid, natural shots.

6. 🌸 Sky Garden

📍 1 Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF (Monument station: 5 min walk) 🔖 Free entry, book in advance at skygarden.london

For something a little different, the Sky Garden at the top of the "Walkie Talkie" building offers 360-degree panoramic views of London from 160 metres up and it's free. The lush indoor garden with floor-to-ceiling glass walls makes for incredibly dramatic photos. You can see the Shard, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul's all in one frame. It's a bit of a trek from campus but the photos are unreal. 🏙️

Why it's great: Jaw-dropping London skyline, unique perspective, and totally free, just book ahead.

A Few Tips Before You Go 💡

🕐 Golden hour is everything. The hour after sunrise or before sunset gives you warm, soft, flattering light. Plan your shoot around it if you can

👗 Wear your gown for at least a few shots. You've earned it and you're only going to wear it once, make it count

🤝 Bring a friend (or two). Photos with the people you've been through this journey with are the ones you'll treasure most. Don't just go solo!

🌤️ Check the weather. London will be London, but a slightly overcast sky actually diffuses light beautifully for photos, so don't despair if it's not perfectly sunny.

Graduation only happens once. Take the photos, wear the gown, drag your family to all six spots if you have to, you've earned every single one! 

Happy Graduation, Folks! ❤️🎓