When it comes to fashion photography, finding the perfect location can make or break a photoshoot. London, with its rich history, eclectic streets, and vibrant fashion scene, is an absolute haven for photographers. From iconic landmarks to tucked-away alleyways, the city has countless options for capturing fashion in all its forms. However, some of the most stunning fashion photography locations in London are often hidden in plain sight. These secret photography spots in London have been my go-to places for years—hidden gems that offer unique, atmospheric backdrops perfect for elevating any fashion shoot.

For a long time, I’ve kept these locations to myself, using them to create breathtaking images and distinct compositions. But now, it’s time to share these secret photography spots in London, so you can unlock the same magic in your work. Whether you’re into street style fashion photography or high-concept editorials, these spots offer the perfect mix of urban grit, architectural beauty, and natural light to complement any style.

London’s streets offer much more than meets the eye, especially when it comes to urban fashion photography. Each of these locations provides a distinctive setting that captures the essence of fashion photography in London—from the grittier, industrial vibes of Shoreditch to the more polished, elegant backdrop of Kensington. No matter what type of fashion shoot you’re planning, these spots will help you create truly stunning imagery that stands out.

Shad Thames, Horsleydown Steps

Everyone knows Shad Thames, with its iconic cobblestone streets and old warehouse architecture, but few are aware of the hidden gem below: Horsleydown Steps. This spot lets you access the Thames riverbank, giving you a rare opportunity to shoot on or in the river itself. The secret to unlocking this location? Use the BBC’s Tide Table to check when the tide is at its lowest, allowing you to walk along the bank. With the backdrop of Tower Bridge and the historical warehouses towering overhead, you’ll get breathtaking shots that mix history with modern fashion effortlessly.

Braithwaite Street: The Hidden Underpass Gem

Right next to Shoreditch Station, Braithwaite Street is an industrial underpass that’s often overlooked in the chaos of Shoreditch’s trendy hotspots. However, this gritty urban location offers amazing potential for urban fashion photography. The trick? Go early in the morning when the street is quiet, and you’ll have this graffiti-covered, steel-filled location all to yourself. The hard lines of the underpass combined with early morning light create a moody, cinematic effect—perfect for bold street style or edgy, editorial shoots.

Angel Court in Bank: A Weekend Secret

Weekdays in Bank are filled with fast-paced professionals, but come the weekend, the area transforms into a quiet, empty landscape. That’s when Angel Court becomes one of the most perfect secret photography spots in London. This narrow little street is tucked away and practically deserted on weekends, offering amazing light for sophisticated fashion shoots. The nearby modern architecture gives a sleek, polished look, ideal for creating minimalist, city-chic fashion images. From here, you can wander around the deserted streets of the City of London for endless creative opportunities.

Ave Maria Lane: Clean City Glamour

Ave Maria Lane may not stand out as extraordinary at first glance, but look closely, and you’ll find metal structures and clean architectural lines that make it an ideal location for fashion photography in London. With its understated city vibe, this road is perfect for bridal or city glamour shoots, where you want a backdrop that’s clean but still urban. The nearby buildings add a refined, polished look, offering the perfect canvas for chic and modern fashion.

Stationers Hall Court: A Cobbled Oasis

Just across the road from Ave Maria Lane, you’ll find Stationers Hall Court, a small, offbeat cobbled street that maintains a sense of London’s old architecture. The quaint, historical vibe is perfect for more classic fashion shoots or capturing street style fashion photography that incorporates a timeless, elegant feel. This spot is quiet and intimate, making it ideal for detailed shots of fashion pieces that need a backdrop without distractions. It’s like stepping into a quieter, older version of London.

Queensberry Mews: A Cobblestone Paradise

Not far from the famous Kynance Mews, Queensberry Mews is one of my all-time favorite hidden spots. This long cobblestone road, complete with a set of curved white steps, is irresistible for full-body fashion shots. These steps are a must-use—versatile, elegant, and they add a unique depth to your images. Whether you’re shooting bridal looks or capturing high-end city fashion, the architectural details and classic cobblestones make this a go-to for sophisticated, versatile shoots.

Pelham Crescent: A Kensington Gem

Just a five-minute walk from Queensberry Mews, Pelham Crescent offers all the charm of Kensington without the usual crowds. This long and curved road, lined with beautiful West London buildings, is perfect for shooting polished, upscale fashion looks. The quiet street allows for uninterrupted shots, with classic Kensington architecture serving as the perfect backdrop for glamorous, elegant fashion images. It’s also just minutes away from Thurlow Street, another favorite, and very popular fashion photoshot spot of mine, which adds even more variety to your shoot.

Golden Lane Estate: A Hidden Urban Treasure

While Golden Lane Estate isn’t technically a road, its underground car park is one of London’s rare hidden gems for urban fashion photography. Recently developed, the estate offers a raw, industrial setting that’s ideal for edgy, alternative fashion shoots. The car park is quiet, offering wide-open space to get creative with angles and lighting. If you can get access to the nearby tennis court, you’ll have an even more unique backdrop to play with. It’s a hidden urban treasure for those willing to explore beyond the obvious.

Barbican Center Car Park: A Brutalist Wonderland

Another favorite urban spot of mine is the Barbican Center Car Park. With its multiple entrances and brutalist architecture, this car park offers endless possibilities for urban fashion photography. The main entrance on Silk Street gives you direct access to a maze of concrete walkways and underground spaces, perfect for avant-garde or street style shoots.

If you’re up for a bit of adventure you can move on to the, second entrance under the Lakeside Terrace Staircase, but be cautious—this spot is often locked or monitored by security as it’s a residental car park over one being owned by Barbican. Nonetheless, the brutalist aesthetic of the Barbican is unmatched for creating bold, dramatic images.

Floral Street: The Overlooked Classic

Floral Street, tucked away right next to Covent Garden station, is a cobblestone pathway that’s a hidden gem for fashion photography. Despite being heavily used over the years, this location still offers charm and versatility. From the iconic Number 12 Steps to the mirrored lightshow on Conduit Court, there’s a range of backdrops to choose from. Floral Street’s quaint atmosphere, combined with spots like the St. Paul’s Church and the nearby Da Bakery with its floral displays, make it ideal for both classic and creative shoots.

Conclusion

London is full of well-known locations, but these secret photography spots in London will give your fashion shoots that extra edge. Whether you’re looking to capture street style fashion photography, sleek and sophisticated city looks, or gritty urban fashion photography, these lesser-known places offer the perfect backdrops to complement your vision. From the industrial charm of Braithwaite Street to the refined elegance of Queensberry Mews, these hidden spots are sure to elevate your fashion photography in London.

Fashion Photography Locations in London: My Gatekept Secret Spots for Stunning Shoots