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Vauxhall is a fast-changing district on the south bank of the Thames, best known for a certain riverside spy headquarters and a lively nightlife scene. Between its transport interchange and the glassy new towers of Nine Elms, it is one of the most visibly transforming corners of central London.
Where is Vauxhall and how to get there
Vauxhall sits on the south bank opposite Pimlico and Westminster. It is a busy interchange, served by the Victoria line, national rail and a major bus station, and is a short hop from Waterloo and Victoria.
Spies, gardens and towers
The landmark everyone recognises is the SIS Building at Vauxhall Cross, the riverside home of the Secret Intelligence Service, MI6, familiar from the James Bond films. The area was once home to the famous Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, now a small park recalling that Georgian playground. To the west, the Nine Elms regeneration has brought the new US Embassy, a forest of towers and a walk towards Battersea Power Station.
Eating and drinking
Vauxhall has long been a hub of London’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, anchored by the historic Royal Vauxhall Tavern, and its arches and new developments add bars and restaurants. It is livelier by night than by day.
Good to know
Is the MI6 building in Vauxhall?
Yes. The distinctive SIS Building at Vauxhall Cross, headquarters of the Secret Intelligence Service known as MI6, stands on the south bank of the Thames at Vauxhall and features in several James Bond films. It is a private, working building, so it is admired from the outside and from across the river.
Where to go next
Walk to Battersea or cross the river to Pimlico, or browse all our London neighbourhood guides.
