Left Luggage Storage in Kings Cross London
Many travelers rush through King's Cross merely as a transit point—a bustling transportation nexus connecting London to the broader UK by train and to continental Europe via Eurostar. However, this vibrant district deserves recognition as a destination worthy of exploration in its own right.
Beyond the Platforms: Discovering King's Cross
The King's Cross neighborhood has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. What was once an industrial, somewhat neglected pocket of London has blossomed into a sophisticated urban center. The area now boasts an impressive array of offerings, from elegant champagne lounges to diverse street food markets, curated boutique shopping experiences to significant cultural institutions. Visitors shouldn't overlook the natural attractions either—the area features both hidden green sanctuaries and the picturesque Regent's Canal waterway.
Follow Harry Potter’s footsteps
No discussion of King's Cross Station would be complete without acknowledging its famous fictional association. Throughout the day, you'll spot enthusiastic Harry Potter devotees searching for the mythical Platform 9¾—their gateway to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Alas, we must dispel the illusion—this magical portal exists only within the confines of the Warner Bros studio experience,Nevertheless, visitors can capture the essence of this iconic moment by posing with a partially embedded luggage trolley installed against a wall. This popular photo opportunity is strategically positioned adjacent to the dedicated Harry Potter retail establishment. Be prepared, however, as this experience typically involves both a financial cost and waiting time.
Look out for Victorian architecture
It’s easy to race into St Pancras station and check the live departures information to check you’re not going to miss your train. But you’re doing a disservice to this magnificent example of Victorian architecture. Stop to look up at the towering glass ceiling overhead and the detailed red brick facade. It’s really something. Then there’s the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel which opened in 1873. It’s another wonderful example for fans of Victorian architecture. It was also the destination for The Spice Girls’ music video for Wannabe!
Enjoy arts and cultural activities
Literary Treasures at The British Library: Situated on Euston Road, this prestigious institution houses an extraordinary collection of the world's most significant written works. Visitors can marvel at remarkable artifacts including The Gutenberg Bible, original Magna Carta manuscripts, Shakespearean folios, and handwritten lyrics by The Beatles. The library's vast repository contains over 150 million items and continues to grow. Guests can explore captivating exhibitions in the John Ritblat Gallery or simply wander through this monument to human knowledge and creativity.
Wander beside Regent’s Canal
Is a gateway to other parts of London, with paths leading towards Camden in the west and Islington in the east. And wandering along the towpath gives you a totally different perspective of London. Forget buses, taxis and trains, this is a London of tunnels and bridges, narrowboats and locks. You must visit Word on the Water floating bookshop. Yes, you read that right! It’s London’s only floating bookshop. Set on a restored 1920s Dutch barge, it’s packed with affordable books and hosts the odd live poetry event on its roof too.
Take a guided walk
If you want to find the hidden gems and learn the secrets of the area, join us on a London Walk from King’s Cross. We’ll tell you when to look up and notice beautiful architecture or trapdoors in the ceiling, and when to glance down and take in the wagon turntables.
Hit the shops
The relatively new Coal Drops Yard has become a go-to destination for on-trend shopping. With more than 100 shops to explore, Coal Drops Yard boasts an eclectic mix of independent stores, hair and beauty salons and familiar brands. Canopy market is more of a bustling, eclectic shopping experience. It’s a heady mix of farmers’ market, space for creative artisans and a craft beer zone. It’s a weekend destination for something less ordinary.
Granary Square - Now
Today the Granary building is home to the world-renowned arts college – Central Saint Martine. The building looks exactly the same from the outside but changes have been made to accommodate fine dining restaurants like Caravan and Dishoom, trendy office spaces and a public square with fountains. The site also hosts vibrant pop-up food markets such as Kerb and has come a long way since it was last known to store and transport grain and wheat to London Bakers.
German Gymnasium - Then
In 1865, London's German Population funded to build England's very first exercise hall, known as the German Gymnasium. The building of this gymnasium was a starting milestone to the development of British athletics. In 1866, the indoor events of the first Olympic games were held in this building by the National Olympian Association. The German Gymnasium Society was a forward-thinking bunch and at the same time as 1866, initiated exercise classes for women, an initiative that was rare for that time period.
German Gymnasium - Now
The German Gymnasium has now been converted into a restaurant that serves authentic German cuisine such as schnitzel and currywurst. But one can still see clues of the original building embedded to the modern restaurant setting, such as the original cast iron hooks hanging from the ceilings from which the budding gymnasts once swung.
