So many of London's architectural landmarks are closely guarded secrets, off-limits to Joe Public. It's tantalising to imagine what goes on behind those closed doors. Well, thanks to the hugely popular London Open House Weekend, we need wonder no more. Almost 700 of the city's buildings - including the Bank of England Museum - take part in this fantastic, free yearly event, now in its 17th year, by opening their doors to everyone. London Open House Weekend offers a wealth of historical landmarks to choose from including some of the most beautiful architectural achievements in the city. Among the ten top places picked out by the Architect's Journal are the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu temple, the RIBA award-winning art gallery Rivington Place and Richard Roger's Stirling Prize nominated Maggie's Centre. You can also get inside some of the grandest private homes in your own neighbourhood - it's a voyeur's dream come true. For the more serious students of contemporary design, this is a chance to visit spaces by famous modern architects. An inspired idea and a real treat whether you're a lover of architecture or just plain nosy. Entry to some of the houses is only permitted via pre-booked tickets acquired through the website www.londonopenhouse.org. You're advised to bring booking confirmation with you.
Bank of England Museum
Bartholomew Lane, EC2R 8AH
Housed within the Bank of England, this museum traces the history of the bank from its foundation... More
With 2009 marking the 500th anniversary of King Henry VIII's coronation there are a series of major exhibitions taking place across London this year. In ...More
Pop Art gets a radical re-sizing at Tate Modern with artists like be Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst re-examined. This exhibition, described as ...More
Leadenhall Market is a restored Victorian covered market that sells traditional game, poultry, fish and meat. Although there has been a forum (market place) on ...More
Mediaeval roof tiles, Elizabethan clay pipes and Roman remains have all been found on Thames Beachcombing guided tours. Under the expert guidance of Fiona, an ...More
Housed in an esteemed former banking hall in the City, this magnificent boutique hotel provides a luxurious sanctuary. The spacious rooms are decorated in a ... More
Mansion House, the Palace of the London Mayor, was originally for the Lord Mayor to represent the City in appropriate style, Sir Crispin Gascoigne was ... More
130-year-old scent emporium with royal warrants.
For a sweet-smelling, sensory overload, Penhaligon’s has to be the place to go. From the original Hammam Bouquet to the ... More
Bounded in by surrounding office buildings, Postman's Park's appeal lies in what it symbolises as much as how it looks. Located just north of St ... More
Get the FREE monthly guide to London entertainment, arts, concerts, sport, book signings, and essential event information delivered directly to your inbox.
LondonTown.com has special discounts every week. The amount of discount will vary depending on the dates you are coming and how far in advance you book. All discounts are subject to availability.
So many of London's architectural landmarks are closely guarded secrets, off-limits to Joe Public. It's tantalising to imagine what goes on behind those closed doors. Well, thanks to the hugely popular London Open House Weekend, we need wonder no more. Almost 700 of the city's buildings - including the 
