Victoria isn’t just a transport hub to get out of London. It’s a destination in its own right, especially since its redevelopment in recent years. You may be surprised to discover how many British iconic landmarks are within walking distance of London Victoria. And there are some gorgeous green, open spaces to enjoy, as well as eclectic eateries.
Next time you’re heading to London Victoria station make time to explore the local area, rather than jumping on the next train to Brighton or Gatwick Airport.
Many must-visit central London attractions are a short walk from Victoria station. It’s a great starting point from which to explore. From here, you can easily walk to the West End, the South Bank or to popular locations like Kensington, Belgravia or Covent Garden.
A mere 10 minute walk from London Victoria Station is the most iconic royal residence, Buckingham Palace. It’s here that the British monarch gets to work – it’s nicknamed ‘the office’. It’s an impressive, majestic and grand building that’s probably the most popular attraction in the UK.
If you want to catch the changing of the guard ceremony, make sure you’re there before 11am on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Saturday. It’s such a symbol of British pomp, ceremony and tradition. It’s quite a thing to see.
From Buckingham Palace it’s a 15 minute walk down The Mall to Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery and onto the West End.
Another iconic, historic building, Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO world heritage site. It’s hosted every coronation in British history since William the Conqueror’s era. No less than 16 royal weddings have taken place here, as well as many royal funerals. Besides royalty, it’s also the final resting place of many legendary greats including Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Sir Isaac Newton. Go famous name spotting in Poet’s Corner.
As you walk inside, be sure to look up. The intricate Gothic architecture is extraordinary, as are the stained glass windows. Centuries of craftsmanship have culminated in this exquisite abbey. Discover the abbey’s history, architecture and stories on our Westminster Abbey Tour.
Fellow Westminster icon, the Palace of Westminster (or The Houses of Parliament) stand imposingly on the north bank of the River Thames. The seat of the British government looks truly spectacular from outside. Then there’s the clock tower (Elizabeth Tower) with its Great Bell known as Big Ben, that has been delivering the ‘bongs’ since 1859. It’s an iconic photo stop for any visitor to London.
Closer to Victoria, Little Ben is a 20 feet tall cast iron clock tower modelled on Big Ben. Think of it as Big Ben’s cuter, little brother. It was a gift from Charles Bizet, a French national, in 1892. Find it at the junction of Victoria Street and Vauxhall Bridge Road. By the way, Victoria Street’s worth a visit for its boutiques and street food market too.
Often confused with the more famous abbey, Westminster Cathedral is the Roman Catholic Mother Church of England and Wales. It’s an incredible combination of 18th and 19th century architecture. But it’s the panoramic view from the top of St Edmund’s Tower that will truly take your breath away. Look along the River Thames to Canary Wharf or Battersea and beyond.
Not all theatre’s in the heart of the West End. There are some wonderful productions at theatres right near Victoria station. The Victoria Palace Theatre’s mere moments from Victoria station, and it’s currently home to the sensational musical, Hamilton.
There’s also the Apollo Victoria Theatre, a Grade II listed building and one of London’s oldest theatres. It’s where you can watch the hit musical Wicked which has been enchanting audiences for the best part of 20 years now.
Back in the day, clubbers danced the night away here in Pacha night club. Today, it’s a veritable foodie destination. The Market Hall has two levels of street food kiosks and cafes. Outdoors, there’s a terrace overlooking the train station so you can sip on a chilled glass of something until it’s time to board your train. Other newcomers to Victoria, Eccleston Yard and Cardinal Place, are also worth checking out for their many food options.
Tate Britain on Millbank is free to visit (one marvellous aspect of many of London’s museums and galleries.) Here you can discover British Art from the 1500s to today. Tate Britain’s open daily from 10am to 6pm.
One of the London sightseeing musts is a spin on the London Eye. It’s Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel – move over Paris, Vienna and Barcelona! From its position on the south bank of the River Thames, you’ll take in spectacular views of the city during the 30 minute, 360 degree rotation. It’s a very slow rotation though, not as stomach churning as a ferris wheel.
One of the things we love most about London (and there’s an awful lot to love) is its abundance of green spaces. You can be in a busy, built up part of the city and stumble across a verdant park, hidden garden or pretty square. The same can be said for Victoria.
The oldest royal park in London, St James’s Park is right beside Buckingham Palace. It spans 57 acres. It’s a peaceful haven in the centre of the city. Believe it or not, around 40 pelicans live here quite happily (or so they seem) and have done since 1664.
Around 20 minutes from Victoria is the vast Hyde Park. When we say vast, we mean it. Hyde Park covers 350 acres. It’s a wonderful, tranquil place to wander around with many family-friendly activities. There’s the Serpentine Lake, Speakers’ Corner and the Princess Diana Memorial for starters. In December it’s transformed into Winter Wonderland and then it’s far from tranquil! At that time, you’ll hear shrieks from the funfair, ice rink and plethora of festive offerings.
Did you know that there’s a canal in this area? The Grosvenor Canal is possibly London’s most secret canal, and we take a guided walk along it. Meandering from Victoria to Battersea Power Station via Belgravia, this is a truly special walk. Find out more