The sites include theatres, factories and museums.
London is home to iconic buildings, including 10 Downing Street, BBC Broadcasting House and the BT Tower. If you’ve ever been curious about what’s behind those doors, Open House Festival 2025 is here to help. Running from 13 to 21 September, the event unlocks the capital in a unique way.
Many buildings in London are usually closed to the public. The charity Open City aims to make these spaces accessible and encourages people to explore their city. Visitors can join walking tours, workshops and drop-in sessions taking place across the capital.
Open House Festival’s most popular sites – such as the Prime Minister’s residence – operate via a ballot system. This year, the locations include A is for Architecture, Leadenhall Market, Nunhead Cemetery House, Sadler’s Wells East, The London Film School, The Museum of Homelessness, The Smallest Gallery in Soho, and Tooting Bec House.
Guided walks include Art in Everyday Life Heritage Trail Launch, Designed to be Forgotten: Women in South Kensington, Regent’s Park Estate Story Trail, Streets of Change: Growing Up in North Kensington, Taming the Thames: Londoners and London’s River, and Word of Mouth: London Churches, Pubs and Press. Drop-in experiences include Acland Burghley School, the English National Ballet, and the Newington Green Unitarian Meeting House, and guided tours are also available in British Sign Language.
Highlights from 2024 included 8a Belsize Court Garages, The Round House in Romford, and Tin House in Shepherd’s Bush. Plus, British rapper Stormzy’s #Merky FC HQ in Croydon.
The full Open House Festival 2025 programme opens for bookings on 20 August 2025.
Check in with FACT for the best things to do in London.
GO: Visit https://programme.openhouse.org.uk for more information.