I make no secret of the fact that there are very few things I enjoy more than having a good old snoop around other people’s gaffs. But if it’s an activity that anywhere near as high up on your list of things you love to do as it is on mine, you’re going to want to listen up. The London Open House Festival will be returning to the capital city next month, giving us mere mortals the chance to cross the threshold of some of London‘s most exclusive establishments. Some of which are usually completely off-limits to the public. Pretty exciting, right?
London Open House Festival 2026
The free-to-attend festival will be taking place this year from September 12 to September 20. The programme of participating places has just been released – and it’s bursting at the seams, to say the least. Hundreds of sites across the city will be throwing open their (usually firmly locked) doors for the occasion; giving Londoners and beyond the chance to have a peek behind the curtain.
Throughout the week, a whole host of exciting happenings will be taking place. There are guided tours, workshops, walking tours, talks, and a drop-in sessions. And the festival champions accessibility, inclusivity, and community, meaning that it’s highly likely that you’ll find something for everyone.
From ancient architecture to modern masterpieces; London Open House Festival serves as a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the capital’s most iconic infrastructure. The festival spans the entirety of the city, with some glorious goings-on in each and every borough.
Drop in sessions will be available this year inside the legendary likes of the OXO Tower, the Old Royal Naval College, the English National Ballet, and the Hackney Empire. Whilst guided tours and bookable events will be taking place at the St Pancras Chambers and Clock Tower, the BBC Broadcasting House, Senate House, and the Shaftesbury Theatre – just to name a few.
Whilst the programme is available to peruse from today, tours and events can’t be booked until August 19. In previous years, some of the most sought-after spots were allocated by ballot. It’s not yet been confirmed as to whether that’ll be the case this year. But we’ll be sure to keep you posted.
London Open House Festival 2026 will be taking place across the city from September 12 to September 20. Find out more, peruse the programme, and plan your visit here.
