If noseying around other people’s gaffs is even nearly as high up on your list of favourite hobbies as it is on mine, you’re going to want to hear about this. The London Open House Festival has returned this September to allow mere mortals such as you and me the rare opportunity to cross the threshold of some of London’s most exclusive establishments. Did we mention that many of them are usually off-limits to the public? How mysterious and exciting!
Between September 13 and September 21, hundreds of sites across the city are opening their (usually firmly locked) doors for the occasion, and allowing visitors to explore inside. The free-to-visit festival champions accessibility, inclusivity, and community, and also includes various tours, workshops and drop-in sessions.
The balloted buildings
Some particularly legendary landmarks are getting involved in the festival, providing access to select members of the public by way of a free-to-enter ballot. The rather iconic likes of 10 Downing Street, the BT Tower, the BBC Broadcasting House, Canada House and the London Museum are all flinging their doors open to the fortunate folk whose names have been drawn in the ballot.
The balloted buildings are rarely accessible to the public, so this really is a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the city’s more iconic infrastructures. These extra special spots join over 700 other buildings and spaces as part of the festival’s programme, from ancient architecture to modern masterpieces.
However, if you’re only just now reading this, the ballot unfortunately closed last month. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of luck!
Celia Mead, Festival Director, said:
“This is our ‘Golden Ticket’ moment where we invite people to apply for the chance to get into some of London’s unique and usually off-limits spaces. It’s the fairest way to share access to the most popular and fascinating buildings. And if you don’t get selected this time, don’t worry. With thousands of other free events and openings across the city, there’s still so much to discover when general booking opens on August 20. Whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time, we encourage everyone to get involved and experience London in a whole new way.”
Among the wealth of buildings to explore are historic theatres, iconic museums, jaw-dropping homes, film locations, and much more.
Find out more about the London Open House Festival and plan your visit here.