Somerset House is one of London's great cultural landmarks, a vast neoclassical quadrangle set on the Strand between Covent Garden and the River Thames. Built in the late eighteenth century on the site of a Tudor palace, it now serves as a working hub for the arts, design and creative enterprise. For visitors, it offers a rare combination: a magnificent open courtyard, free public spaces, rotating exhibitions and a seasonal ice rink, all moments from the heart of central London. Few attractions manage to feel so grand and yet so genuinely welcoming.
Why visit Somerset House
Somerset House is worth visiting because it is one of central London's most striking neoclassical buildings, offering free access to its grand courtyard, riverside terrace and changing programme of art and design exhibitions, with a celebrated winter ice rink as its seasonal highlight. It rewards curious visitors who enjoy architecture and culture in equal measure. The courtyard alone, framed on all sides by elegant Georgian facades, is one of the most photogenic spots in the capital. Throughout the year the building hosts exhibitions, fairs, open-air screenings and installations, so there is almost always something to discover. Because much of the site is open to the public without charge, it is an easy and rewarding stop whether you have ten minutes or half a day.
What to see at Somerset House
Somerset House is large, and the pleasure of a visit lies partly in wandering between its courtyards, terraces and galleries. The following are the features most visitors will want to seek out.
- The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, the central courtyard, where a grid of choreographed fountains dances across the cobbles in warmer months.
- The winter ice rink, installed in the courtyard each festive season, one of London's best loved seasonal attractions.
- The River Terrace, a long promenade overlooking the Thames with views towards the South Bank and Waterloo Bridge.
- Rotating exhibitions and installations spanning contemporary art, photography, design and fashion across the building's galleries.
- The neoclassical architecture itself, designed by Sir William Chambers, with its grand arches, staircases and river-facing frontage.
- Cafes, shops and seasonal events, from open-air film screenings to design fairs, that bring the courtyard to life year round.
How to visit Somerset House
Somerset House sits on the Strand in the WC2 district, with its southern frontage facing the River Thames. The nearest Underground station is Temple on the District and Circle lines, a short walk to the east. Covent Garden on the Piccadilly line, Charing Cross on the Northern and Bakerloo lines, and Embankment on the District, Circle, Northern and Bakerloo lines are all within easy walking distance, as is Waterloo across the river. Numerous bus routes serve the Strand and Aldwych.
The courtyard and many public areas are free to enter, which makes Somerset House an easy addition to any central London itinerary. Some exhibitions, events and the winter ice rink are ticketed and can sell out, especially during the festive season, so it is worth booking ahead. Opening times, exhibition details, ticket prices and rink dates change throughout the year, so check the official Somerset House website for current information before you visit.
What's nearby
Somerset House occupies one of the most rewarding stretches of central London for sightseeing. A short walk west brings you to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery, while Covent Garden, with its piazza, market and street performers, lies just to the north. The Courtauld Gallery, home to a renowned collection of Impressionist paintings, is housed within Somerset House itself. Cross Waterloo Bridge and you reach the cultural institutions of the South Bank. The legal quarter of the Inns of Court and the shops of the West End are also within comfortable walking distance.
Somerset House FAQ
Is Somerset House free to visit?
Yes, the courtyard and many of the public spaces at Somerset House are free to enter, so you can wander in and enjoy the architecture, fountains and river terrace at no cost. Some exhibitions, special events and the winter ice rink are ticketed, so check the official website for details on what requires a booking.
What is the nearest Underground station to Somerset House?
Temple station, on the District and Circle lines, is the closest Underground stop and only a short walk away. Covent Garden, Charing Cross and Embankment are all within easy reach on foot, while Waterloo lies just across the river. Numerous bus routes also serve the Strand and Aldwych nearby.
When is the ice rink at Somerset House open?
The ice rink is a seasonal installation set up in the central courtyard during the winter festive period each year. Exact dates and skating sessions vary annually and tickets are popular, so they can sell out quickly. Always check the official Somerset House website for the current season's dates, times and booking arrangements before planning a visit.
How long should I spend at Somerset House?
A quick stroll through the courtyard and along the river terrace takes around twenty to thirty minutes. If you plan to see an exhibition, visit the Courtauld Gallery or pause at a cafe, allow one to two hours or more. The building also rewards an unhurried wander, so leave time to explore its staircases and quieter corners.
Plan your visit
Somerset House pairs naturally with the rest of central London's cultural offering. Browse more of the city's best things to do in London to build your day, explore our guide to the capital's leading museums and galleries, or discover what to expect across the surrounding neighbourhoods when you plan your visit.
