What are the best things to do near Liverpool Street?
Date post added: 8th October 2025
Liverpool Street doesn’t generally make it to London ‘must-visit’ lists. But arguably, it should. From its location in the midst of the City of London, it’s a launchpad for a variety of East End adventures. You can be mingling with city slickers in the financial district, Shoreditch hipsters, market traders or cool creatives in this diverse, vibrant part of city.
Marvel at soaring skyscrapers, meander through historic markets and sample eclectic street food from around the world. This pocket of the city is buzzing with things to see and do. Whether you’ve got a spare hour between trains or a whole day to explore, Liverpool Street offers plenty of surprises within a short stroll. So lace up your walking shoes and discover the fascinating array on offer near Liverpool Street.
What is Liverpool Street station famous for?
One of the four stations on the original London Monopoly board, Liverpool Street station is a major transport hub. From here, you can catch trains to Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire. Or you can whizz across London on the super convenient Elizabeth Line, the Central, District and Circle, Metropolitan or Hammersmith and City lines too. It’s a popular starting point for a day trip into or out of the city.
But before you rush away from the station, take the time to notice the significant points of historic interest within it. Firstly, look up at the impressive Victorian arches above your head. Then, there’s the Great Eastern Railway War Memorial to those who fell in World War I. That’s by the Old Broad Street exit on the upper level of the station.
Liverpool Street station played an important role in World War II history as well. For thousands of (mainly) Jewish children, Liverpool Street station marked the last stop on their journey to safety as they fled Nazi-controlled Europe. Kindertransport was a British-led, non-military rescue mission that brought around 10,000 children to safety in the UK between 1938 and 1939. A bronze sculpture of children with their luggage is a powerful reminder of their plight, and you’ll find that on the station concourse.
What attractions can I visit within walking distance of Liverpool Street station?
There’s plenty to discover within a short walk from Liverpool Street station. Do you want to explore the area’s rich history, sample exceptional cuisine, browse local markets or enjoy panoramic views of the city? Any or all of those options are within a few minutes walk of the station.
Iconic landmarks
Within easy reach of Liverpool Street station are must-see London landmarks.
- St Paul’s Cathedral – an icon of the London city skyline, the historic St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-visit. Walk in the footsteps of royalty, admire Wren’s magnificent architecture and enjoy spectacular views of the city from the gallery at the top. Explore it with us to hear its secrets
- Bank of England – reminiscent of Gringotts bank in the Harry Potter films, you can learn about 300 years of banking history in their museum.
- Guildhall – this impressive building is home to the City of London Corporation. But another remarkable feature is the Roman amphitheatre that was discovered there in 1988. It’s well worth a visit, and it’s free entry too.
- Royal Exchange – this magnificent building near Bank was originally founded as a centre of commerce for The City of London in the 16th century. Now, it’s more of an entertainment venue with high-end shops, bars and restaurants that delight city workers on their lunch breaks.
- Monument – around 15 minutes walk from Liverpool Street, the 202 foot tall Monument commemorates the Great Fire of London. It’s 311 steps up to the platform if you want to boost your step count.
- Tower of London – a little further away, but still within walking distance, this fortress by the River Thames is home to the Crown Jewels, ravens and Beefeaters, and incredible stories of the past.
Views of the city
With numerous soaring skyscrapers alongside historic towers, there are many opportunities to ascend to the heights and take in incredible views of London.
- Sky Garden – from the top of the “Walkie-Talkie” building at 20 Fenchurch Street, this veritable oasis of tranquility provides panoramic views of the city skyline. You’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle below.
- Horizon 22 – a relative newcomer to the skyscraper scene, Horizon 22 is on level 58 of London’s tallest building, 22 Bishopsgate. Take in sweeping views of the city from its highest vantage point.
- Duck & Waffle – this exquisite fine dining restaurant on the 40th floor of Heron Tower serves up remarkable views along with its signature dish of crispy duck, fried duck egg and waffle (and so much more).
- The Gherkin – with its distinctive shape, 30 St Mary’s Axe is more commonly known as the Gherkin. It’s a modern, architectural marvel and provides another exceptional vantage point.
- Tower Bridge – walk down to the River Thames and you can climb up inside the beautiful Tower Bridge to enjoy the views along the river to London Bridge and beyond.
East London markets
East London boasts several historic markets, just a short walk from Liverpool Street station. Markets have been part of London life since Medieval times. They continue to provide vibrant cultural experiences that go way beyond food shopping.
- Old Spitalfields Market – a mere stone’s throw from Liverpool Street, you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to street food and indie labels here. Dating back to 1600, this covered market hosts bars, restaurants, coffee shops and rows of market stalls to explore.
- Leadenhall Market – originally constructed in the 14th century, this is one of London’s most beautiful and historic market places. Look up to admire the vaulted roof, and down at the cobbled path. It’s also one of the memorable Harry Potter film locations in the city.
- Petticoat Lane Market – in the 18th century, this was the place to buy lace and petticoats from France. Now, you can get so much more than undies. It’s on Wentworth Street on weekdays and Saturdays and Middlesex Street on Sundays.
East End true crime
We’re not talking Dirty Den or the Mitchell brothers here. You can discover horrific true crime stories that have taken place near Liverpool Street.
- Jack the Ripper – the legendary perpetrator of the Whitechapel murders still intrigues people nearly 150 years on. Follow in the footsteps of Jack and his poor victims. Our nightly tour guides you through the streets and alleyways of Whitechapel and brings his murder victims to life with exceptional storytelling.
- Sidney Street – back in 1911, two desperate criminals starting firing at police below 11 Sidney Street. But it was the actions of powerful Russians miles away that led them to this siege. Discover this true crime story on our The Siege of Sidney Street Walk which starts at the Kindertransport statue in Liverpool Street station.
Eclectic dining experiences
This area’s home to some of London’s most incredible fine dining experiences. We’ve mentioned the legendary Duck & Waffle. Then Gordon Ramsay’s about to open five culinary experiences at 22 Bishopsgate to add to the gastronomic mix.
The antithesis to high end fine dining experiences, this area of the city’s awash with decent pub grub, sandwich spots and street food.
- Brick Lane – renowned for its curry houses and bagel bars, this is the place for authentic Indian fare and bagels around the clock.
- Street food – you’ll find everything from soupy dumplings to meze and noodles at Spitalfields market.
- Italian feast – the world’s largest Italian food market is right outside Liverpool Street station. Eataly is packed full of irresistible Italian delicacies, from cannolis to calzones. Eat in, out or on the go.
- Traditional pubs – there are some proper boozers round here. In fact, right opposite Liverpool Street station, you’ll find Dirty Dick’s. Dating back to the early 19th century, the pub’s named after a notorious local merchant who stopped washing when his fiancée died. Grief and grime – inextricably linked.
- The Lamb in Leadenhall Market is another fine example of a historic London tavern. You’ll find punters spilling out onto the cobbles on a busy day at this three-storey pub.
- Broadgate Circle – not long until your train? Grab a bite from one of the many bars and cafes and sit in the amphitheatre. There’s always something going on.
Street art
One of the fascinating things about this area is its mix of historic and contemporary, sleek and edgy. And just a few minutes walk from the refined, modern office buildings you can encounter a dynamic urban art scene.
- Brick Lane – along with a wide variety of global street food on offer, you can take in incredible street art. It’s quite the sensory experience.
- Shoreditch and Spitalfields – this urban outdoor art gallery is changing constantly. Our street art walking tour gets you up close and personal with Banksy, Ben Eine, Shepherd Fairey and Invader and Co in the East End.
Look beneath the surface of London Liverpool Street’s surrounding area
No matter whether you’re visiting London Liverpool Street for hours or days, there’s plenty to experience. It’s filled with history and modernity; tradition and rebellion; luxury and grime. The best way to experience it is by walking it and hearing the fascinating stories. Join us on a group or private tour.
- City of London guided tour
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Jack the Ripper walking tour
- East End street art tour
- Harry Potter film locations
- Historic Jewish quarters (available as an insightful private tour).
Pippa Jackson
Pippa is a word nerd and content aficionado with a background of working in TV on both sides of the globe. She loves to discover and share the diverse and wonderful stories of her much-loved London. When she’s not writing blogs and articles, you’ll find her walking beside the Thames or even paddleboarding on it (in the finest of conditions only!) or enjoying a coffee in the sunshine with a good book.
David Tucker
David – the Seigneur of this favoured realm – broods over words, breeds enthusiasms and is “unmanageable.”* He’s a balterer, literary historian, university lecturer, journalist, logophile and lifelong thanatophobe. For good measure, he’s the doyen of London guides.