Somerset House

Famous for its contemporary art and cultural exhibitions and ideally found on the fashionable Southbank, Somerset House is one of London’s most exciting, premier entertainment venues with a remarkable history.

Perfectly placed between the Strand and the River Thames, Somerset House is a beautiful Neoclassical building in the heart of London’s Westminster with a long, illustrious history. Originally a Tudor Palace stood on the site, and today, the gorgeous building that inhabits the space is as much a part of London iconography as any of the top tourist sights.

A dedicated arts and cultural centre, there’s always something to see and do at Somerset House. It houses a lovely selection of restaurants and cafés, hosts open air concerts and films, exhibitions and family workshops. And history lovers can fully immerse themselves in the building’s fascinating past on the regular guided tours. Fashionistas will also know Somerset House as the home of London Fashion Week, and throughout the year this artistic hub has exhibitions and galleries on show.

If you’re travelling down during the winter, make sure to take a trip to the ice rink within the grounds, and in the summer get your picture taken by the 55 fountains in the grand courtyard.

Something for everyone

This premier location on London’s waterfront means that there’s something to tick every box and satisfy every fancy within easy reach. If you want to discover more of the capital’s cultural scene, take a walk across to the London Transport Museum, or film fans can spend a lazy afternoon browsing in the London Film Museum in nearby Covent Garden.

Notable historic buildings in the close area include Middle Temple Hall, a gothic style building that hosted Shakespeare’s first recorded production of Twelfth Night in the early 1600s, and if the thought of that piques your creative interest, check out the extensive collection at the Poet Library in the Southbank Centre.

When it comes to finding places to sleep and eat, the exclusive area around the Strand and the trendy Southbank has everything from fine dining restaurants to charming riverside bistros. Hotels near Somerset House are easily found too. From the luxurious 5-star One Alwych, The Savoy and The Waldorf Hilton, right through to the smart, budget hotels like Thistle Piccadilly and Premier Inn.

So when you’re planning a trip to the capital, be sure to stay in the heart of it all, and check out Somerset House.