Six picks: What to see at Open House London
The weekend that celebrates London's best buildings is back in September, with over 800 properties to see
Cultural landmarks, icons of the London skyline, offices and private homes are once again opening their doors to the public for London's 25th annual Open House weekend. Whether you're a sucker for an exclusive view, an architecture buff or just fancy a nose around an interesting home, there are over 800 participating venues to discover, all free of charge. For the best results, it pays to plan ahead.
Here are six not to miss:
BT Tower
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Designed by architects Eric Bedford & GR Yeats, this unmistakable Grade II-listed landmark – formerly known as the London Telecom Tower – has stood above the capital for the last 52 years, and was London's tallest building until 1980. It is no longer open to the public, but Open House ballot winners can enjoy panoramic views from the revolving 34th floor, a restaurant venue before access was restricted.
45 Maple Street, W1T 4BG. Enter by 1 September at Open House London
The View from The Shard
Brave the elements 800ft above ground on the open-air tip of The Shard. A tourist favourite, on a clear day Level 72 offers breathtaking views stretching far across the city, and is well worth the security checks upon entry. The glass-heavy building has been a fixture of the London skyline since 2012, the work of Italian architect firm Renzo Piano Building Workshop (who also designed The News Building next door).
Joiner Street, SE1 9EX. Enter by 1 September at Open House London
No 10 Downing Street
Open Housers are in with a chance to see behind the famous black door of the Prime Minister's official residence, office and entertaining spot for world leaders. No 10 has provided backdrop to key political decisions since 1735.
10 Downing Street, SW1A 2AA. Enter by 1 September at Open House London
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
Voted this year's No 1 Open House building by fans of the organisation, architect Norman Foster's 40-storey office building (and home to Searcys restaurant, bar and private members club on the 39th and 40th floors) was completed in 2003, and has become a world-renowned landmark of the City. Tours start at 8am, but demand will be high, so hold out till brunch and join the queue early.
30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8EP
Alexandra and Ainsworth Estate
This Grade II-listed Brutalist housing estate in St Johns Wood has a long list of guest appearances in films, music videos and album covers. Designed by architect and artist Neave Brown in 1968, the 520 concrete units on the estate are designed to reduce noise from the neighbouring railway, and enjoy cleverly designed communal gardens. Five residential apartments will be open to visitors, with some retaining original features such as built-in ventilation.
Rowley Way, NW8 0SF
Hidden House
Visitors to this Grand Designs four-floor, 2,600 sq ft mews house can expect to find serious party inspiration hidden beneath the back garden, as the large basement boasts a light-up dance floor, DJ booth, cinema screen with colourful sunken seating, spa and sauna – and a waterfall. It's not just about fun though, the property has a sustainable focus that includes an air source heat pump, photovoltaics, super-insulation and water recycling.
39 Russell Garden Mews, W14 8EU
Open House runs from 16-17 September 2017. Some events need to be pre-booked. Public ballots close at 11.59pm, September 1; openhouselondon.org.uk
Create an account with the same email registered to your subscription to unlock access.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
The art world and motherhood: the end of a final taboo?
Talking Point Hettie Judah's new touring exhibition offers a 'riveting riposte' to old cliches
By Chas Newkey-Burden, The Week UK Published
-
'Musk's reliance on China draws rising scrutiny'
Today's Newspapers A roundup of the headlines from the US front pages
By The Week Staff Published
-
Biba: the story of a 'legendary emporium'
The Week Recommends Brand's 60th anniversary is being marked with retrospective celebrating the 'iconic shop's cultural importance'
By Adrienne Wyper, The Week UK Published
-
Mexico City travel guide: art and design
The Week Recommends Modern vibrancy, design legacy and ancient heritage puts Mexico's jewel alongside other art capitals of the world
By Harriet Marsden, The Week UK Published
-
The Westbury Hotel review: stunning suites in charming Dublin
The Week Recommends This hotel is the perfect spot to while away a weekend in Ireland's capital
By Kaye O'Doherty Published
-
Drama movies 2024: new films out this year
In Depth Latest reviews include The Boys in the Boat, One Life and Tchaikovsky's Wife
By The Week UK Last updated
-
Best new hotels and places to stay in 2024
The Week Recommends Featuring stylish island resorts, historical properties and wilderness retreats
By The Week UK Last updated
-
Albums of the year: best music of 2023
The Week Recommends A look back at the best pop, rap, jazz, dance, classical and rock releases
By The Week UK Published
-
Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay review: an institution reinvented
The Week Recommends Traditions are maintained and the tweaks are clever and modern
By Neil Davey Published
-
Tulum: a Mexican beach town of 'two halves'
The Week Recommends With the 'pueblo' and 'Zona Hotelera', Tulum is home to great hotels, restaurants and beach clubs
By William Leigh Published
-
La Zebra review: beach chic, perfect tacos and secret cenotes
The Week Recommends Enjoy a stylish stay in Mexico at this family-friendly beach hotel and restaurant
By William Leigh Published