Somerset House
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About
A spectacular Neoclassical complex on the north bank of the Thames, Somerset House is a major center for arts and culture. Its massive courtyard, surrounded by elegant wings once housing government offices, now hosts the Courtauld Gallery, famous for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces like Manet's 'A Bar at the Folies-Bergère.' The sensory experience of the courtyard changes with the seasons—from dancing fountains in summer to one of London's most beautiful ice rinks in winter. Expert recommendations: Visit the 'Staircase Hall' for its architectural beauty and the Courtauld for a more intimate art experience than the National Gallery. Pro tip: Many of the temporary exhibitions in the Embankment galleries are free or low-cost. Don't miss the hidden 'Deadhouse' underground if you can join a guided tour—it’s a fascinating, eerie historical space.
Highlights
- Neoclassical courtyard
- The Courtauld Gallery
- Winter ice skating rink
- Summer courtyard fountains
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Jamie Oliver Catherine St
Located in a beautiful historic building in Covent Garden, this restaurant marks Jamie Oliver's return to the London dining scene with a focus on 'modern British comfort food.' The decor is warm and inviting, celebrating British craftsmanship with bespoke furniture and curated art. The sensory experience is family-friendly yet sophisticated. Expert recommendations: The 'Scallops with Black Pudding' and the 'Sunday Roast' are highly praised for their quality and sourcing. Pro tip: It’s an excellent choice for a pre-theater dinner due to its proximity to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Unlike his previous chains, this is a more focused, high-quality singular venue. Reservations are recommended, but they usually have space for early-evening walk-ins at the bar.
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London Transport Museum
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, this museum explores the powerful link between transport and the growth of modern London. It houses an extensive collection of historic vehicles, including the world’s first underground steam train and iconic red double-decker buses. The interactive displays make it a multi-sensory journey through the city's design and social history. Expert recommendations: Try the 'Tube' simulator to see what it's like to drive an underground train. Pro tip: While the entry fee seems high, the ticket is actually an annual pass, allowing you to return as many times as you like for a year. It’s exceptionally family-friendly, so visit early in the morning to enjoy the exhibits before the school groups and families arrive in large numbers.
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Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre is Europe's largest arts center, a Brutalist landmark that has been the pulse of London’s cultural scene since the 1951 Festival of Britain. Comprising the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Hayward Gallery, it hosts world-class music, dance, and art exhibitions. The riverside setting is iconic, often bustling with book markets, street performers, and seasonal pop-up bars. Expert recommendations: Visit the Hayward Gallery for cutting-edge contemporary art or the rooftop garden for a hidden green escape. Pro tip: There are often free lunchtime concerts and workshops in the Royal Festival Hall foyer. On weekends, the Southbank Centre Food Market behind the hall is a fantastic spot for gourmet street food. The concrete skate park beneath the building is a legendary piece of London's urban culture and great for photography.
Covent Garden Market
Once a world-famous fruit and vegetable market, Covent Garden is now a vibrant cultural and shopping hub. The elegant 19th-century piazza architecture houses the Apple Market, where you can find handmade crafts and antiques. The atmosphere is perpetually festive, thanks to the world-class street performers and opera singers who entertain crowds in the lower courtyard. Expert recommendations: Visit Petersham Nurseries for a beautiful floral-themed lunch or explore the surrounding 'Seven Dials' for independent boutiques. Pro tip: While the main market is open daily, the antiques market specifically takes place on Mondays. During the Christmas season, the market features some of the best decorations in London, including a giant reindeer and a massive tree, making it a prime spot for festive photography.
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