Somerset House

★ 4.4 (2,211)$$ · Mid-range

Built in the late 18th century by William Chambers on the site of an earlier Tudor palace, Somerset House now functions as a cultural venue whose courtyard transforms with the seasons — a popular ice rink in winter, a dancing fountain for kids in summer — while galleries inside host exhibitions ranging from photography to design retrospectives, such as the MC Escher show one reviewer specifically praised. With a 4.4 rating and a strong 73 trendy score in the data, it reads as a spot favoured by a slightly more local, culturally engaged crowd than the headline London landmarks nearby. It suits visitors who want a break from the standard sightseeing circuit, ideally timed around whatever exhibition happens to be on.

✨ Reasons to go

1Designed by William Chambers in the late 18th century, built on the site of a former Tudor palace.
2The central courtyard converts into an ice rink in winter and a fountain display in summer.
3Its galleries have hosted major exhibitions, including a dedicated MC Escher retrospective.

💡 Good to know

1Check what exhibition is currently showing before you go, since the appeal depends heavily on the current program
2visit the courtyard in summer for the fountains or book ahead for the winter ice rink, both popular with families
3the riverside terrace behind the building has cafes worth pairing with a walk along the Thames.

⏱️ Typical visit

🚶 Walking intensity

Moderate walking

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Address

Strand, London WC2R 1LA, UKGoogle Apple

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Booking

Booking recommended

What people say

"Somerset House is lovely. I went to see the MC Escher exhibition and really enjoyed it. It was very informative and engaging, with some interesting and somewhat immersive experiences. I also ate at the Café Petiole which is located on the south wing of Somerset House. This is a lovely arts centre in a great location and with plenty of things to see and do, including a good offer of free events. The inner courtyard is really nice to enjoy, especially on a warm sunny day. The place is clean with well maintained restrooms. Selected areas are free to roam around. MC Escher is a paid exhibition but well worth experiencing. And I recommend visiting Café Petiole."

— Natasha G

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