Whether you live or commute into London, you might not put King’s Cross on your list of places to visit unless you’re trying to catch a train away from bustling streets of the capital. It’s one of the busiest stations in the UK and often only used for its transportation links, yet there’s so much to do and see in the King’s Cross area! So if you’ve got a spare hour or two you can visit some of our favourite spots.
Top 5 Things to do in King’s Cross
British Library
Your student days may be over, but if you love a good book or the tranquility of a library, this is a perfect place to visit. The UK’s national library, coupled with its stunning architecture and extensive catalog of books, manuscripts, and journals, you could get lost in the wonders of the British Library. With reading rooms designed to inspire, and a number of free exhibitions throughout the year – there’s always something to do here.
Bird Cage Swing
No, this isn’t in an aviary, unfortunately – but it’s a great look for your Instagram. Located right outside the station, this installation attracts both commuters and tourists alike. Originally suspended in the air above the station, many believed it looked like a neon UFO, and with its newfound home you can enjoy a free swing ride in the cage’s centre before you continue your journey.
Granary Square Fountains
Make a splash! If you’re in Kings Cross with the kids on a hot summer’s day, this is the perfect location for you to chill out and let them have some fun! The Square boasts some stunning views at night, as the fountains light up in different colours – you can even download the app to control the jets yourself.
King’s Cross Skip Gardens
When you think of skips, you think of DIY and demolition, but the folks at Global Generation have given them a new meaning – community gardens. Located in Lewis Cubitt Park, explore this sustainable urban garden where you can see the local community growing produce and wildflowers, whilst enjoying a coffee or some veggie homemade food.
Drink Shop and Do
This shop says what it does on the tin – drink, shop and do basically. They serve amazing cocktails, afternoon tea and boozy brunches all whilst hosting incredible arts and craft activities. Whether it’s LEGO, paper mache or life drawing – you’ll have a great time here, a perfect stop-off before you hop back onto your train.
SafeStore
Don’t get held back by lugging your suitcases around all day, SafeStore’s King’s Cross store is 5 minutes’ away from the station, and offer cheap luggage lockers that are secure and easy to access. That means less backache and more fun!