Discover London’s architecture with Open House

10 Downing Street
10 Downing Street. Credit: Open House London

Don’t miss this once-a-year chance to peek inside more than 800 of the capital’s most interesting buildings

A highly anticipated fixture in the capitalʼs cultural calendar, Open House London is a citywide celebration of buildings, places and spaces.

Taking place on 22 and 23 September, the annual architecture festival is a unique opportunity to see, explore and learn about amazing architecture and design as some of London’s most interesting buildings fling open their doors to the public for a limited time.

With more than 800 buildings involved this year Open House Londonʼs selection includes beautifully designed residences, innovative infrastructure projects and prestigious civic buildings, from the BT Tower to the Royal Courts of Justice and even 10 Downing Street, alongside a programme of neighbourhood walks, engineering and landscape tours, cycle rides and expertsʼ talks – all for free.

Forty Hall
Forty Hall, one of more than 800 properties open their doors for Open House weekend. Credit: Pixabay

Returning to the programme this year, the BT Tower is still very much alive and relaying broadcast, internet and telephone information around the world. An enduring, distinctive feature of the London skyline, the weekend will provide a rare opportunity for members of the public to visit the famous revolving floor, 158 metres above the capital.

Other highlights include Burlington House, the world’s oldest active biological society, housed in a handsome building in a prestigious Piccadilly location, and Nash’s Royal Society building, gifted to the future King George IV on his twenty-first birthday.

US Embassy, London. Credit: Kieran Timberlake
US Embassy, London. Credit: Kieran Timberlake

Events include a walking tour of Chelsea’s architectural icons and ‘Secret Westminster’, a walk round the area’s hidden gems.

Now in its 25th year Open House’s core aim to allow people who would not ordinarily have the chance, to see inside some of London’s most fabulous buildings. Entry to the sites is free, but some venues are subject to a ballot. You can also browse the properties online, buy the guide book or download the Open House app which lets you plan an itinerary for your visits.