Somerset House
Somerset House on the Strand in London is a major cultural venue with a central courtyard, exhibitions, and seasonal events, including winter ice skating.
In pictures
About
Somerset House London sits in a large neoclassical complex on the Strand, between Covent Garden and the Thames. Today, it works as a cultural venue. It hosts exhibitions, installations, and seasonal events throughout the year.
People come for both the setting and the programme. The central courtyard gives you rare open space in busy central London. In winter, the Somerset House ice rink becomes a major draw. On weekdays outside peak periods, the atmosphere is usually easier and more relaxed.
It pairs well with a walk along the Strand, a visit to The Courtauld Gallery, or a route towards Waterloo Bridge. Depending on the event, some areas may be freely accessible, while exhibitions often require a paid ticket.
To visit it well, check the official calendar before you go. The experience changes a lot with the season. Allow a short stop for the courtyard alone, and longer if you plan to add an exhibition, skating, or a temporary event nearby.
The Concierge's Tip
Go on a weekday morning, especially outside school holidays. The courtyard is easier to enjoy before the crowds build. Check the official calendar on the same day. Somerset House changes quickly with exhibitions and seasonal events. In winter, the ice rink draws heavy footfall. If you prefer a quieter visit, choose late morning in spring or early autumn, then continue on foot towards Covent Garden or the river.
Ask the Concierge
Our Concierge arranges your visit: skip-the-line tickets, a private guide, off-hours access.
Ask the ConciergeFrequently asked questions
- What is Somerset House?
- Somerset House is a major cultural venue set in a historic complex on the Strand in London. It is not just a museum. The site combines a large courtyard, exhibition spaces, and a changing seasonal programme. Its appeal comes from both the architecture and the events held there.
- Why is Somerset House famous in London?
- Somerset House is known for its central location, its grand courtyard, and its cultural programme. It hosts exhibitions, installations, and public events across the year. The winter ice rink has also made it widely recognisable. Many visitors come as much for the setting as for a specific exhibition.
- Is Somerset House free to enter?
- It depends on what you want to see. Some parts of the site, including the courtyard at certain times, may be freely accessible. Exhibitions and many events usually require a paid ticket. The safest approach is to check the official programme for the day, as access conditions can change with the season.
- How much is a ticket for Somerset House?
- There is no single ticket price for all of Somerset House. Prices vary by exhibition, event, and season. When the ice rink is running, it has its own ticketing as well. Before you go, check the official page for the specific activity you want, so you know exactly what applies.
- Can you go ice skating at Somerset House?
- Yes, the Somerset House ice rink is one of the best-known winter attractions in central London. It does not run all year. Sessions, crowd levels, and access rules vary by period. If skating is your priority, check the seasonal dates early and secure a timed slot if the official system requires one.
- What happens at Somerset House in London?
- The programme changes regularly. You may find exhibitions, installations, courtyard events, and seasonal activities. Winter is strongly associated with the ice rink. At other times, the main draw may be the architecture or a temporary show. It is worth checking the calendar before you plan your visit.
- What was Somerset House originally used for?
- Somerset House was not originally created as a cultural venue. The site had other functions before its current role. For visitors, the key point is that it now combines historic architecture with a contemporary cultural programme. That contrast explains much of its character and why it feels different from a standard museum.