Somerset House

The Basics

Follow in the footsteps of movie stars on a cinematic tour, or visit on a walking or hop-on hop-off tour, according to your schedule. Travelers with more time can explore the grounds on a historical tour and gain insight into the royal, governmental, and public uses of the building over the years, or check out one of the events held here for an immersive experience of culture in the capital.

Things to Know Before You Go

Entry to Somerset House is free, though there is a fee for some exhibitions and shows.
The central courtyard is open-air, so remember to bring an umbrella or raincoat on rainy days.
Somerset House is a must-see for history buffs, culture vultures, and creatives.
Most of the site is wheelchair accessible; guests with access concerns are encouraged to call ahead.

Trip ideas

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Virtual Tour in London

Imagine what it's like to stand on the stage at one of London's most iconic attractions on this 360-degree virtual tour of Shakespeare’s Globe. Helpful instructions teach you to get the most of videos, photos, and sounds on your experience. Bonus: More features abound if you download a free app.

Royal Museums Greenwich in London: Online Stories and Collections

This robust selection of online offerings from four top Greenwich museums lets you explore world history from home. Discover epic stories of sea and space exploration, get behind-the-scenes insight from museum curators and specialists, and even explore the globe in 3D.

ZSL London Zoo Livestreams and Keeper Diaries

ZSL brings the #ZooToYou with livestreams of its residents—including the beloved meerkats and newly born dwarf mongoose pups—as well as a ton of behind-the-scenes videos, from zookeeper diaries to animal close-ups.

Inside the Historic Royal Palaces of England and Ireland

Royal life is at your fingertips with these virtual guides. See the kokoshnik tiara transform into a necklace, hear about herbs in the palace gardens, and learn the Tudor way to cook a mince pie. Tours and activities explore Kensington Palace, the Tower of London, Hillsborough Castle, and more.

British Museum Virtual Tour

The British Museum’s collection is yours to explore with just a few clicks. Navigate continents and cultures—from prehistoric to present—with this interactive experience. Access renowned artifacts such as the Rosetta Stone, and hear directly from museum curators.

Pubs with History: London's Most Unusual Drinking Dens

Narrow down your options for a pint to these storied watering holes near St. Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe, and more.

Virtual 360° Experience of London's Royal Albert Hall

Most famous for the BBC Proms classical music festival, the Royal Albert Hall is one of London’s most iconic venues. Now, with this interactive, 360-degree panorama, you can explore its opulent auditorium without stepping foot outside of your home.

Virtual 360° Experience of London's Twickenham Stadium

Get a virtual look inside Twickenham Stadium, the home of rugby union, during a England v Wales Six Nations game. A series of 360-degree panoramas show off the views from the best seats in the house.

8 West End Performances to Stream Right Now

The lights may technically be out at London theaters, but the district has turned to the small screen, allowing you to stream musicals, plays, and cabarets from home. Stay entertained—and keep local performers in business—with recommendations from an actor and tour guide who knows the West End best.

London Rock Music Tour: A Virtual Audio Experience

London’s rock 'n' roll spirit endures even when the shows are called off. Channel the spirit of the city’s hippest musical neighborhoods and venues with a virtual itinerary—and accompanying song recommendations—from London Rock Music Tour founder Bruce Cherry.

The Basics

Things to Know Before You Go

How to Get There

Trip ideas

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Virtual Tour in London

Royal Museums Greenwich in London: Online Stories and Collections

ZSL London Zoo Livestreams and Keeper Diaries

Inside the Historic Royal Palaces of England and Ireland

British Museum Virtual Tour

Pubs with History: London's Most Unusual Drinking Dens

Virtual 360° Experience of London's Royal Albert Hall

Virtual 360° Experience of London's Twickenham Stadium

8 West End Performances to Stream Right Now

London Rock Music Tour: A Virtual Audio Experience

When to Get There

Stroll the South Bank

More Tours in London

Things to do near London

More attractions near London

Recommended for London