On Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd September, over 800 buildings in London will open their doors to the general public for Open House London. Including cultural institutions, government buildings, churches, offices and private homes, it’s a true snooper’s paradise. Whether you go for interiors inspiration, seeking enlightenment of the historical, cultural or spiritual kind, or you just fancy a good nosey behind the scenes in some of the capital’s finest establishments, there’s plenty to see - and it’s all for free!
For the third year in a row every borough in London is participating, making it - well, quite overwhelming! To help you find your way we’ve put together a highlights reel for you. If you’re heading into town and need pointing in the right direction, look no further than our list of Top 5 things to see at Open House London 2019.
The one for design lovers
Gin Distillery, Whitechapel
An award-winning and enviably cool conversion of a Victorian warehouse turned family home by Open Practice Architecture.
Open 10am-3pm Saturday 21st September. Booking required.
The one for history buffs
Photo credit: Dhowes9 via Wikipedia
Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Whitehall
A popular pitstop on the Open House route, as it’s not normally open to the public, but worth the fast-moving queues for the enormous, elaborate interior.
Open 10am-5pm Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd September
The one with the famous front door
10 Downing Street, Westminster
Find out what’s really going on behind those iconic black doors...
Tours at 11am and 2pm Saturday 21st September. Booking required, entry by ballot only.
The one for gardening enthusiasts
Photo credit: Thomas Ball / Clitterhouse Farm
Clitterhouse Farm, Barnet
A crowd-funded community project aimed at restoring historic farm buildings once threatened by demolition.
Open 10am-4pm Saturday 21st September
The one with the panoramic views
Photo credit: Tomasz Preficz
White Collar Factory, Islington
Head straight to the top of the sixteen-storey tower of this innovative office building for views over East London. Don’t miss the rooftop running track!
Open 10am-5pm Saturday 21st and 1-5pm Sunday 22nd September
Open House London also has plenty of family activities available for children aged 0-13 years old. Plan your family day out here >
To order the full Open House London programme, click here. You can also download the app for route planning on the go.
