London's Best
Cultural Venues

Alexandra Palace

Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY, United Kingdom

Alexandra Palace is a historic North London venue offering panoramic city views. From live music and exhibitions to festivals and ice skating, there's a diverse calendar of events to enjoy.

Bancone

The Imperial, 61-66 Russell Square, London WC1B 5BB, UK

Bank of England Museum

Bartholomew Ln, London EC2R 8AH

Family-friendly museum with interactive exhibitions telling of the Bank's role in today's economy.

Banqueting House

Barbican Centre

Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS

Cultural venue with concert hall, theatres, cinema, galleries and home of London Symphony Orchestra.

Battersea Park

Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4NJ, United Kingdom

Escape the city bustle at Battersea Park, a vast green oasis on the Thames' south bank. Explore its riverside promenade, admire the Peace Pagoda, or enjoy the boating lake and playgrounds.

Battersea Power Station

Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DD, United Kingdom

Experience the iconic Battersea Power Station, reborn as a vibrant riverside destination. Explore its retail, dining, and entertainment, all within a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Bedford Square Gardens

Discover a tranquil Georgian garden square, a green oasis in Bloomsbury. Perfect for a lunchtime escape or a peaceful moment amidst the city's bustle.

Buckingham Palace

London SW1A 1AA, United Kingdom

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the King, and a working royal palace. Explore its State Rooms during the summer opening, or witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Cadogan Hall

5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 9DQ

Early 20th century hall, home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, with classical music programme.

Camden Market

54-56 Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF, United Kingdom

Dive into the eclectic heart of North London at Camden Market, a vibrant hub of independent stalls, global street food, and unique artisan crafts. Explore a labyrinth of fashion, music, and art, set against the historic backdrop of Camden Lock. It's an essential London experience, offering something new with every visit.

Canada Water Market

Canary Wharf Estate

London, UK

Canary Wharf Estate is a gleaming financial district in East London, boasting an impressive skyline. Explore its array of shops, restaurants, and bars, or enjoy a peaceful stroll through its parks and waterside spaces. This bustling hub offers a dynamic blend of business and leisure.

Chelsea Physic Garden

66 Royal Hospital Rd, London SW3 4HS, United Kingdom

Discover the hidden gem of Chelsea Physic Garden, a four-acre botanical oasis nestled in the heart of London. Explore its diverse collection of medicinal and edible plants, offering a tranquil escape and a fascinating journey through the world of flora.

Chiswick House and Gardens

Burlington Ln, Chiswick, London W4 2RP, UK

Coal Drops Yard

Stable Street, King's Cross, London N1C 4DQ

A landmark shopping and dining destination in King's Cross, housed within two Victorian-era coal storage buildings reimagined by architect Thomas Heatherwick and opened in 2018. Its distinctive kissing roof design connects the two historic structures, creating a canal-side setting with over 45 independent and designer retail shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Courtauld Gallery

Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 0RN

One of the world's great art collections, housed within Somerset House on the Strand in central London. It is particularly celebrated for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, including Manet's A Bar at the Folies-Bergère and Van Gogh's Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear.

Crystal Palace Park

Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA, United Kingdom

Discover Crystal Palace Park, a sprawling South London green space steeped in history. Explore its magnificent dinosaur sculptures, enjoy a boating lake, and wander through picturesque gardens, offering something for everyone.

Dulwich Picture Gallery

London SE21 7AD

Significant collection of 17th- & 18th-century European Old Masters in a building by Sir John Soane.

Eltham Palace

Court Yard, Eltham, London SE9 5NP

An English Heritage property in Greenwich that combines a medieval royal palace — where Henry VIII spent his childhood — with a lavishly restored 1930s Art Deco mansion. The site includes 19 acres of beautiful gardens and is open to the public year-round.

Eventim Apollo

45 Queen Caroline St, London W6 9QH

Large, art deco entertainment venue with eclectic programme of rock, pop and comedy performances.

Fitzrovia Chapel

2 Pearson Square, London W1T 3BF, United Kingdom

Discover the Fitzrovia Chapel, a hidden Arts and Crafts gem nestled in Pearson Square. This exquisite architectural marvel offers a serene escape, showcasing stunning mosaics and stained glass. Experience a unique blend of history and artistry in the heart of London.

Foundling Museum

40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ

The story of first British home for abandoned children, with art collection and Handel memorabilia.

Fulham Palace

Bishop's Ave, London SW6 6EA, United Kingdom

Explore Fulham Palace, a historic Bishop's residence set within beautiful gardens beside the Thames. This captivating museum offers a journey through centuries of London life, art, and architecture.

Garrick Theatre

2 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0HH, United Kingdom

Experience West End magic at the Garrick Theatre, a historic venue on Charing Cross Road. This intimate playhouse offers a captivating program of drama, musicals, and comedies in the heart of London's theatreland.

Gillian Lynne Theatre

166 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5PW, United Kingdom

Modern theatre with moveable stage and seating, allowing all seats to have uninterrupted views.

Granary Square

Guildhall Library

Aldermanbury, London EC2V 5AF, United Kingdom

Discover the Guildhall Library, a treasure trove of London's history within a stunning Victorian setting. Explore extensive collections, from medieval manuscripts to modern maps, and delve into the city's rich past. It's an essential stop for researchers, history buffs, and anyone curious about London's heritage.

Gunnersbury Park Museum

Gunnersbury Park, Gunnersbury Park Museum, Popes Ln, London W5 4NH, United Kingdom

Step into West London history at Gunnersbury Park Museum, a Grade II listed manor house. Explore local heritage, art, and nature within its elegant walls and expansive parkland. Discover a captivating blend of culture and green space.

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU

Famous seat of Henry VIII and his many wives, this palace received elegant Stuart-era modernisation.

Horniman Museum and Gardens

100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ

Museum with aquarium, stuffed animal and musical instrument collections, set in landscaped gardens.

Houses of Parliament

Parliament Square, London SW1A 0AA

The Palace of Westminster is the seat of the UK Parliament, housing the House of Commons and House of Lords on the north bank of the Thames in Westminster. The current Victorian Gothic building was largely rebuilt after a fire in 1834, with the iconic Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) completed in 1859. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Imperial War Museum

Lambeth Rd, London SE1 6HZ, United Kingdom

Delve into the powerful history of conflict and courage at the Imperial War Museum. Located in Lambeth, this museum presents an immersive journey through the stories of those impacted by war, from World War One to contemporary conflicts.

Indigo at The O2

205 Peninsula Square, London SE10 0ES

A 2,800-capacity live music and entertainment venue tucked beneath the iconic roof of The O2, known for intimate gigs, stand-up comedy and a superior sound and lighting setup.

Japan House London

Kensington Palace

Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX

Royal palace and gardens, with exhibits on former residents like Queen Victoria and Princess Diana.

Lauderdale House

Leighton House

12 Holland Park Rd, London W14 8LZ

Former home of Lord Leighton with intricately tiled Arab Hall, paintings & sculpture collection.

Lightroom

12 Lewis Cubitt Walk, London N1C 4DY

London's purpose-built home for large-scale immersive art, set in a vast subterranean space near King's Cross, where 360° 4K projection and theatrical storytelling combine into one spectacular experience.

London Coliseum

St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4ES

Ornate, restored Edwardian theatre with an 80ft stage for opera productions, plus bars and dining.

London Museum Docklands

No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL, United Kingdom

Uncover the fascinating history of London as a port city at this waterside museum in Canary Wharf. Explore the stories of trade, migration, and the River Thames through engaging exhibits and historic objects.

London Notting Hill Carnival Enterprises Trust

Lyric Hammersmith Theatre

Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL, UK

Marylebone Theatre

Milton Court

Milton Court, Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS

A state-of-the-art 608-seat concert hall and performance venue adjacent to the Barbican, owned by the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and showcasing classical, contemporary and student productions.

Museum of London

No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL

Georgian sugar warehouse, now home to a museum chronicling London's history as a trading port.

National Portrait Gallery

St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE

Paintings and photographs of aristocratic and famous figures throughout British history.

Natural History Museum

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD

Landmark museum of animals and natural phenomena, with hands-on exhibits and animatronic dinosaurs.

Noël Coward Theatre

Novelty Automation

Old Royal Naval College

London SE10 9NN

Elegant riverside complex designed chiefly by Sir Christopher Wren & housing a maritime museum.

Painted Hall

Palace of Westminster

London SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom

Step into the historic heart of British democracy at the Palace of Westminster. This iconic riverside landmark houses the Houses of Parliament, where centuries of political drama and decision-making have unfolded. Explore its stunning Gothic architecture and discover the rich heritage of the UK government.

Phoenix Theatre

110 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0JP

The Phoenix Theatre is a West End theatre on Charing Cross Road, opened in 1930 and known for its Art Deco interior. The theatre seats approximately 1,012 and is operated by Ambassador Theatre Group, hosting major productions and musicals.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre

Inner Circle, The Regent's Park, London NW1 4NU

Britain's oldest professional outdoor theatre, nestled in Queen Mary's Gardens in Regent's Park, staging a celebrated summer season of musicals, Shakespeare and new work since 1932.

Roundhouse

Chalk Farm Rd, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8EH

Distinctive former Victorian railway shed, now hosts live music, circus and alternative theatre.

Royal Academy of Arts

Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD

Palladian mansion hosting world-class art exhibitions and a legendary open-submission summer show.

Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP

One of Britain's great Victorian splendours, most famous for the Proms classical music festival.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Kew, Richmond TW9 3AE

Trees & flowers from around the globe in vast gardens with huge greenhouses & a treetop walkway.

Royal Festival Hall

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX

Southbank Centre landmark hosting concerts and performing arts in a variety of spaces.

Saatchi Gallery

Duke of York's HQ, King's Rd, London SW3 4RY

Up-and-coming and established contemporary art exhibited in 19th-century Duke of York headquarters.

Sadler's Wells Theatre

Rosebery Ave, London EC1R 4TN

Classic facade hides cutting-edge interior hosting ballet, modern dance and children's shows.

Science Museum

Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD

A vast treasury of science & invention, famous for its state-of-the-art interactive exhibits.

Serpentine Gallery

London W2 3XA

Two free contemporary art galleries set inside Kensington Gardens, championing new ideas in art and architecture since 1970 and home to the iconic annual Serpentine Pavilion.

Seven Dials Market

Earlham St, London WC2H 9LX, United Kingdom

Seven Dials Market is a vibrant Covent Garden food hall, home to an eclectic mix of independent street food vendors. Discover everything from gourmet burgers to authentic Asian cuisine, perfect for a casual lunch or lively evening meal.

Shakespeare's Globe

21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT, United Kingdom

Experience Shakespeare's plays in a faithful reconstruction of the open-air Elizabethan playhouse, just steps from the original Bankside site. This iconic London venue offers a unique theatrical journey, bringing history and drama to life on the South Bank.

Shoreditch Town Hall

Sinfonia Smith Square

Smith Square, London SW1P 3HA, United Kingdom

Sinfonia Smith Square is a prestigious classical music venue in the heart of Westminster. Discover an array of orchestral performances and chamber music within its historic walls, offering an intimate concert experience.

Sir John Soane's Museum

13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3BP

Eccentric 19th-century collector's home, packed with classical sculpture, paintings and curiosities.

Soho Theatre Walthamstow

186 Hoe St, London E17 4QH, United Kingdom

Soho Theatre Walthamstow brings a dynamic program of comedy, theatre, and cabaret to East London. This vibrant performing arts venue offers an intimate setting to experience a diverse range of live performances.

Somerset House

Strand, London WC2R 1LA

Somerset House is a large neoclassical building on the Strand in central London, originally built in the 1770s as a government office complex. Today it operates as a major arts and culture centre hosting exhibitions, events, and performances, and is particularly well known for its winter ice rink and summer outdoor cinema screenings.

Soraya

96 George St, London W1U 8HZ, UK

Southbank Centre

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX

Theatres, concert halls and a cutting edge art gallery presenting over 1200 events each year.

Southwark Cathedral

London Brg, London SE1 9DA, United Kingdom

Serene, Gothic Anglican cathedral with famous choral Evensong & Eucharist worship services.

Southwark Park

Gomm Rd, London SE16 2TX, United Kingdom

Escape the urban bustle at Southwark Park, a sprawling green oasis in southeast London. Discover a boating lake, sports facilities, and an award-winning rose garden, perfect for recreation and relaxation.

St Giles Cripplegate

St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, London

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ

St Martin-in-the-Fields is a Church of England church on the north-east corner of Trafalgar Square, notable for its 1726 Gibbs design combining a classical portico with a steeple. The church is well known for its programme of classical music concerts, including regular candlelit performances, and runs a significant social care programme for homeless people.

St Marylebone Parish Church

17 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LT, United Kingdom

St Marylebone Parish Church is a Grade I listed Anglican church on Marylebone Road designed by Thomas Hardwick and built between 1813 and 1817, notable for its grand Corinthian portico. The church has strong literary associations — Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett were married here in 1846, and it features in several works by Charles Dickens.

St Paul's Cathedral London

St Paul’s Church Covent Garden

Bedford St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9ED

Known as the Actors' Church, this elegant 1633 Inigo Jones building on the edge of Covent Garden Piazza holds memorials to entertainment legends and hosts over 400 events a year.

SushiDog Camden

192-198 Camden High St, London NW1 8QP, UK

Tate Britain

Millbank, London SW1P 4RG

Imposing gallery with historic and contemporary British art, notable for its JMW Turner collection.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern stands as a beacon of contemporary art on the bank of the River Thames. Explore a vast collection of modern masterpieces within a striking former power station. Enjoy breathtaking city views from its upper levels.

The Adelphi

John Adam St, London WC2N 6HA, UK

The Adelphi is a historic office and commercial building complex on John Adam Street in the Strand area of London WC2, originally designed by the Adam brothers in the 1770s. The current Adelphi building, completed in 1938, is a notable example of Art Deco architecture and serves as an office and events address close to the Savoy and Somerset House.

Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF

Theatre Royal Drury Lane is one of the oldest and most historically significant theatres in the world, with a history dating back to 1663 in Covent Garden. The current building, the fourth on the site, was built in 1812 and following a major refurbishment completed in 2021 is now operated by Andrew Lloyd Webber's Really Useful Group.

The British Library

96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom

Discover a world of knowledge at The British Library, home to over 170 million items spanning centuries of human creativity. Explore priceless manuscripts, ancient maps, and literary treasures within its striking modern architecture, just moments from Euston Station.

The British Museum

Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG

Huge showcase for global antiquities, including Egyptian mummies and ancient Greek sculptures.

the Design Museum

224-238 Kensington High St, London W8 6AG

Displays of contemporary design & innovation, from the everyday to the cutting edge.

The Duke of York's Theatre

The Golden Hinde

The Harold Pinter Theatre, Panton Street, London, UK

Panton Street, London SW1Y 4DN

The Harold Pinter Theatre is a West End theatre on Panton Street, named after Nobel Prize-winning playwright Harold Pinter in 2011. Originally opened as the Comedy Theatre in 1881, it seats around 796 and has hosted major productions including transfers from the National Theatre and RSC, operated by Ambassador Theatre Group.

The Horse Hospital

Colonnade, London WC1N 1JD

Rare 2-storied stable building converted into artist-led venue for unconventional arts and media.

The Household Cavalry Museum

Horse Guards, Whitehall, London SW1A 2AX

The Household Cavalry Museum is located in the historic Horse Guards building on Whitehall, telling the story of the Household Cavalry regiment from its founding in 1661 to the present day. Visitors can view the working stables through a glass partition, see ceremonial horses, and explore uniforms, weapons, and artefacts spanning over 350 years of royal and military history.

The London Archives

The London Palladium

8 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF

Huge theatre with original features and ornate foyer, renowned for variety shows and musical revues.

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom

Discover masterpieces spanning centuries at The National Gallery, a world-renowned art museum located directly on Trafalgar Square. Housing a magnificent collection of Western European paintings, it offers an enriching cultural experience in the heart of London.

The O2

Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX

Arena hosting concerts from the world's top stars & elite sporting events for up to 20,000 fans.

The Old Queens Head

44 Essex Road, London N1 8LN

The Old Queens Head is a historic pub on Essex Road in Islington with origins reputedly dating back to the 16th century. The venue features an upstairs events space used for live music, comedy, and club nights, and is a longstanding fixture of the Islington pub scene.

The Photographers' Gallery

The Wallace Collection

Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN

The Wallace Collection is a national museum in Manchester Square housing one of the finest collections of art ever assembled by one family, including Old Master paintings, French 18th-century decorative arts, arms and armour, and Sèvres porcelain. Bequeathed to the nation in 1897, admission is free and the museum also has a courtyard restaurant.

Tower of London

London EC3N 4AB

Centuries of bloody history around a medieval castle, home to Crown Jewels and iconic Beefeaters.

Trent Park House of Secrets

Two Temple Place

Victoria and Albert Museum

Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

Blockbuster exhibitions and permanent decorative arts collection, with design shop and ornate cafe.

Victoria Park

London E9 5DU, United Kingdom

Victoria Park is an expansive East London green space, perfect for tranquil walks, runs, and picnics. Discover its boating lake, historic monuments, and popular events throughout the year.

Waterhouse Hackney

7A Ezra Street, London E2 7RH, UK

Watts Gallery

Wellcome Collection

183 Euston Rd., London NW1 2BE, United Kingdom

Explore human health and our place in the world through a unique blend of art, science, and history at Wellcome Collection. This free museum and library on Euston Road offers thought-provoking exhibitions and a tranquil reading room.

Westminster Abbey

Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom

Westminster Abbey is a historic Anglican church in the heart of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries, it has been the setting for coronations, royal weddings, and the final resting place of monarchs, poets, and scientists. Explore its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, a true emblem of British heritage.

Westminster Cathedral

Victoria St, London SW1P 1LT, United Kingdom

Experience the stunning Byzantine architecture of Westminster Cathedral, a vibrant Catholic landmark in the heart of London. Discover its intricate mosaics, towering campanile, and serene chapels, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Young V&A

Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, London E2 9PA, United Kingdom

Explore a world of playful design and creativity at Young V&A, a children's museum in Bethnal Green. Discover interactive exhibits and workshops designed to inspire young minds through art, craft, and performance.