King’s Cross is one of North London’s most exciting and evolving areas, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modern development. Once known for its industrial roots, it’s now a buzzing hub with something for everyone, including cool pubs, great brunch spots and live music venues.
Whether you're looking to shop at world-class retailers, discover cutting-edge art at galleries, or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the canals, this area has it all. With iconic landmarks like St. Pancras International, Granary Square, and let's not forget Platform 9¾, you'll never be short of things to do in London's King's Cross.
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Fun Things To Do Near King's Cross
1. Club Curling
- Location: Coal Drops Yard, Stable Street, N1C 4DQ
- When: 7th November 2025 - 1st March 2026
- How much: from £9 per person
- Why we recommend: Club Curling is the perfect seasonal activity to do with your mates or colleagues, especially if you're looking to do something affordable
Right in the heart of King’s Cross, Club Curling transforms Coal Drops Yard into a colourful alpine playground. It’s a curling competition, and sensory après experience - and totally addictive.
Test your accuracy on six sustainable lanes, then head indoors for interactive experiments that awaken your senses to the magic of winter. Perfect for families, dates, or after-work hangs, it’s the King’s Cross pop-up that’s got everyone talking.
Head to Club Curling for seasonal fun.
2. Play Some Games At Shuffleboard Bar London
- Location: 37 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9SE
- When: every day, 12pm to 11pm
- How much: £25 per hour, per table
- Why we recommend: we think this bar is a great place to hang out with your friends when looking to do something a little bit different. It's packed with arcade games, and you can play pool too, plus there are happy hours and extended fun on Sundays
Looking for a night packed with good food, fun games, and a touch of friendly rivalry? Shuffleboard Bar London is the place to be. Whether you’re a shuffleboard pro or a first-timer, you’ll love the chance to play on their championship-sized tables while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere filled with street art, including graffiti by local London artists. The bar’s quirky touches - like a double-decker bus turned DJ booth - add to the charm of this fun-filled venue.
After you've shown off your shuffleboard skills, head to the arcade for some classic games or rack up the balls on the pool table. Catch live sports, sip on delicious drinks, and snack on mouth-watering food - think pizzas, fish and chips, apple pie and more.
Get your shuffle on and enjoy some tasty food in the process.
3. Enjoy An Afternoon Tea At RAILS Restaurant & Littler Bar
- Location: Great Northern Hotel, King’s Cross St Pancras International Station, Pancras Road, N1C 4TB
- When: Thursday to Sunday, 1pm to 5pm
- How much: from £41.50 per person
- Why we recommend: we can't resist a couple of sweet treats, especially in an opulent setting, and this gorgeous dining room certainly delivers. Our eyes are on the gooseberry and elderflower crumble tart
Afternoon tea at RAILS Restaurant & Little Bar is a delightful journey for your taste buds, set in the heart of King's Cross. Housed in a beautiful Grade II-listed hotel, the first-floor restaurant offers a stylish blend of vintage Victorian charm and modern elegance, with touches of Parisian café chic to set the mood. As you settle into this relaxed and inviting spot, prepare for a delectable tour of the UK’s regional delights.
From Yorkshire parkin to cranachan choux buns, Scotland’s sweet offerings are on full display, alongside London’s famous Victoria Cupcake and a hearty Scouse pie from Liverpool. Every bite takes you on a flavour-filled adventure, perfectly paired with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam. Add a pot of your chosen tea, and you’ve got the ultimate indulgent afternoon treat.
How about a posh and pretty cuppa at RAILS Restaurant & Littler Bar?
4. Discover The Best Restaurants In King's Cross
When you're out and about, there's nothing worse than when hunger pains strike and you have no idea where to satiate your cravings, be it crispy tacos or juicy burgers. Fortunately, King's Cross is a haven for restaurants, boasting an array of top-tier choices that'll make a meal memorable.
- Best for schnitzel and beer: German Gymnasium - read our Junior Editor Scarlett's review here.
- Best for tapas: Camino - top tip: pair your food with its signature Camino Punch.
- Best for Indian food: Dishoom - we're partial to a breakfast naan.
- Best for pizza: Happy Face - our favourite is the Sebastiano, topped with artichoke, anchovies, and black olives.
- Best for sharing plates: Coal Office - ideal for lunch after a morning shopping around King's Cross.
- Best for pasta: Lina Stores - Lead Editor Jasmine loves a pretty plate of pasta here.
- Best for Instagrammable desserts: Harry's - the terrace here is stunning too.
- Best for Mexican: Decimo - Katie's favourite, our Head of Brand and B2C at DesignMyNight.
Devour bratwurst in a Grade II-listed building.
5. Quench Your Thirst With The Best Bars In King's Cross
King's Cross is blessed with a large selection of drinking dens, perfect for every occasion. Whether you're looking for a laid-back pint and some pretty canal views, or a sleek bar which takes its audio seriously, this spot has got it all.
- Best for audiophiles: Spiritland - we adore the sound system in here.
- Best for pretty views: The Lighterman - an Aperol spritz or two on the terrace wouldn't go amiss.
- Best for slinky cocktails: SUPERMAX - read our Junior Editor Kiera's review here.
- Best for quirky interiors: Gothic Bar - our Instagram never looked so good.
- Best for a glass of wine: Porte Noire (owned by Idris Elba, no less) - who knew Mr Elba could (metaphorically) pour us a perfect glass of white?
- Best for a rooftop: The Big Chill - ideal for soaking up that summer sun with your mates.
- Best for craft beer: Campfire (closed
throughout winter) - these guys know what
they're doing when it comes to beer.
King's Cross is a great place to drink all-year-round.
6. Belt Out Hits With Karaoke At Star Of Kings
- Location: 126, York Way, N1 0AX
- When: every day, times vary from midday onwards
- Price: karaoke (private hire for up to 25 people) from £49 per hour
- Why we recommend: this is a fun way to let your hair down around the area, thanks to its rockaoke nights, sports showings, pub quizzes, drag bingo and more - there's never a dull moment
On the lookout for things to do near King's Cross St Pancras Station and ready to unleash your inner diva? Star of Kings is your go-to thanks to its fun karaoke room. This classic pub, with its cosy ambience and rich heritage in music and entertainment, is the perfect spot for a night out filled with laughs, tunes, and plenty of drinks.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, their private karaoke room comes equipped with a state-of-the-art Lucky Voice sing station, boasting over 10,000 songs and two radio mics to help you hit those high notes (or, you know, have a blast trying). Bring your mates and belt out your favourite hits in total privacy - no judgment, just fun. When you're not belting out tunes, grab a bite from their delicious food menu or enjoy a cold one on the beer terrace if it’s sunny.
All together now: since you been gone...
7. Sip Champagne Overlooking The Station At St Pancras Bar And Brasserie
- Location: St Pancras International Upper Concourse, Euston Road, N1C 4QL
- When: from 8am Monday to Friday, 10am Saturdays and 11am Sundays
- Price: from £7 per glass of wine
- Why we recommend: whether you have time to kill before catching a train, or a simply looking for a drink and a bite to eat with a dazzling view of the architectural beauty that is St Pancras, we can't recommend this place enough (it even does non-alcoholic options)
Step into the glamour and charm of St Pancras Bar And Brasserie, where history, art, and elegance collide in a stunning setting. Nestled beneath the iconic 'I Want My Time With You' neon by Tracey Emin, this brasserie is the epitome of 1920s Art Deco style. From the rich wood panelling and brass fixtures to the vintage station clock, the décor oozes old-world charm with a modern twist.
Inspired by the grand railway station restaurants of Paris, the menu is a French-inspired feast for the senses. Think rich escargot de Bourgogne in garlic and parsley butter, and warming French onion soup with Gruyère croutons. With a backdrop as stunning as the food, you’ll find yourself immersed in the station’s architectural beauty while sipping bubbly from the Press for Champagne table-side button - no need to leave your seat to indulge in luxury.
Featuring Searcys English sparkling wine and more, this bar is a great place for a scenic sip.
8. Read 'Til Late At The Standard
- Location: 10 Argyle Street, WC1H 8EG
- When: 'til 12am or 2am
- Price: cocktails start from £12
- Why we recommend: we love this aesthetic, retro-looking lounge and like to pretend we're the main character as we soak up the atmosphere, sip a cocktail and get stuck into a good book
Located in the heart of King's Cross, The Standard is an exciting destination offering an urban oasis amid London’s buzzing cultural hub. Inside, the hotel’s unique, brutalist architecture meets an atmosphere full of energy and fun - The Library Lounge is a particular favourite as you can bring a book and read 'til late, cocktail in hand, thanks to its 12am and 2am closing times.
Plus, with 266 distinctive rooms and a dog-friendly vibe, it’s the ultimate place to rest, play, and soak up the city’s magic. Hungry? There's a range of eateries including Decimo, a modern Spanish restaurant, the Double Standard bar, and Isla - a seasonal restaurant that captures the best of fresh, local ingredients.
The Library Lounge is open until 2am Thursday to Saturday, and 12am Sunday to Wednesday.
9. Brunch At Mare Street Market
- Location: Unit 1 P2, 2-8 Lewis Cubitt Square, N1C 4DY
- When: brunch is from 9am 'til 4pm
- Price: dishes from around £7.50
- Why we recommend: this is a great casual spot to enjoy some delicious breakfast food with your friends, and you'll be able to browse around the market packed with knick-knacks and independent stalls after too
Mare Street Market in King's Cross is the kind of place that effortlessly blends laid-back charm with seriously good food. With independent residents like Voices Radio and The Great Frog alongside its open kitchen and all-day menu, it’s the ideal spot to settle in with a coffee, catch up with friends, or get some work done while soaking up the lively market atmosphere.
And when it comes to brunch? This place does it right. Think golden waffles drenched in maple syrup, indulgent Mexican breakfast burritos packed with chorizo and chipotle, and picture-perfect smashed avocado on sourdough with crispy chickpeas and Aleppo chilli. And if you're not quite ready to leave when brunch winds down at 4:30pm, you can stick around for wood-fired pizzas and a cocktail or two at the bar.
Enjoy multi-coloured chandeliers and an array of pop-ups here.
10. Immerse Yourself In Art At Lightroom
- Location: 12 Lewis Cubitt Square, N1C 4DY
- When: on-going
- Price: from £27.50 per person
- Why we recommend: Lightroom offers a fun, stunning, immersive experience where you're able to get up close and personal with art and shows
As far as quirky things to see and do around King's Cross go, Lightroom is a great one. This cutting-edge venue collaborates with some of the biggest names across art, music, fashion, film, and science to create spectacular, larger-than-life shows that go beyond simple projections.
Whether it’s catching a Coldplay performance or discovering the world of dinosaurs, Lightroom transforms how audiences engage with creativity. Conveniently located just a ten-minute walk from King’s Cross Station and right next to the lively bars and restaurants of Coal Drops Yard, a visit to Lightroom has to be on the cards when you're in the area. For more exhibitions in London, check out our guide.
See works like never before at the home of artist-led storytelling.
11. 'Head To Hogwarts' Via Platform 9¾
- Location: King's Cross Station, N1 9AP
- When: on-going
- Price: free
- Why we recommend: despite the sometimes long queues, this little feature makes a great photo opportunity, especially if you're a Harry Potter fan - it'll be just like going to Hogwarts. Well, sort of
For Harry Potter fans, Platform 9¾ is a must-see when you're at King's Cross Station. Venture over to the luggage trolley embedded in the brick wall and snap a photo of you on your way to Hogwarts, ready to be sorted into Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff or Slytherin. It doesn't cost at all to have your photo taken yourself, but there's a professional photographer on hand between 9am and 9pm should you fancy getting a high-quality souvenir.
If you want to go that extra step further, head to the Harry Potter Shop next door (where photos can be purchased after) and buy yourself some robes, a wand and perhaps even a scarf to complete the first (or fifth) year look. The shop itself is styled to look like Ollivander's wand emporium, and you can discover time turners and Horcruxes there too.
Free things to do near King's Cross? Get a picture of where it all began for Harry, Ron and Hermoine.
12. Do Some Shopping Around Coal Drops Yard
- Location: Stable Street, N1C 4LW
- When: until 7pm, Monday to Saturday, and 5pm Sundays
- Shops: Tom Dixon, Uniqulo, Carhartt WIPP, & Other Stories, Paul Smith, Universal Works, Rains and more
- Why we recommend: there's a wide range of cool shops here, from Paul Smith to Universal Works, offering top-tier clothing that'll be hard to resist. You'll also find gems like Shelter, which sometimes have big brand pop-ups, as well as food pit stops like Long Boys
Once a gritty industrial hub, Coal Drops Yard has transformed into one of London’s most exciting destinations for shopping, dining, and culture. Originally built in the 1850s to receive coal from the North of England, this Victorian-era goods yard has been reimagined into a stunning, design-forward space that blends history with modern creativity.
Independent boutiques rub shoulders with high-end brands, offering everything from contemporary homeware at Tom Dixon to sustainable fashion at COS. The dining scene is just as impressive, with top-notch restaurants and bars like Barrafina, BAO, and Parrillan, where you can sip wine and enjoy small plates on a terrace overlooking Regent’s Canal. But it’s not just about shopping and eating - there’s always something happening. Think art installations, pop-up events, live music, and even a bit of alfresco cinema when the weather plays nice.
Coal Drops Yard's regeneration project was led by architect Thomas Heatherwick.
13. Brush Up On LGBTQ+ History At Queer Britain
- Location: 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
- When: Wednesday to Sunday, until 6pm
- Price: free, however, donations are encouraged
- Why we recommend: this museum hosts facinating and inspiring exhibitions that explore Britain's queer history and are incredibly accessible too - stop by next time you're in Granary Square
Tucked away in the heart of King’s Cross, Queer Britain is the UK’s first dedicated LGBTQ+ museum - an essential stop for anyone interested in queer history, culture, and creativity. Opened in 2022, this groundbreaking space celebrates the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community through powerful exhibitions, personal artefacts, and dynamic events.
Housed in a gorgeous old industrial building, it's an inclusive space where visitors can explore everything from the fight for LGBTQ+ rights to the evolution of queer fashion, art, and activism. Whether you’re an ally, part of the community, or just curious to learn more, Queer Britain offers an inspiring and eye-opening experience. Plus, it’s completely free to visit.
One of the most exciting and insightful free things to do near King's Cross St Pancras Station.
14. Watch A Gig At A Live Music Venue
- Location: Scala, The Lexington and Lafayette
- When: every day
- Price: varies depending on gig
- Why we recommend: you might catch the next big act, or your favourite artist, at one of these cool music venues. There are also some brilliant comedy nights, allowing King's Cross to really cement itself as part of the city's entertainment scene
If you fancy a gig, King's Cross is far from short of legendary venues. Once a grand cinema and even a brief stint as a controversial adult movie theatre, Scala has reinvented itself as one of London’s most iconic live music venues; this legendary spot has hosted everyone from Coldplay and Foo Fighters to Ed Sheeran and Charli XCX.
Further up the road, you'll find a gem of a venue sitting between King’s Cross and Angel. The Lexington is a haven for music lovers, whiskey enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a great night out. Upstairs, its intimate gig space is famed for showcasing the best in indie, alternative, and Americana music. Finally, tucked away in Goods Way, Lafayette brings an incredible sound system, stylish interiors, and an eclectic lineup of artists spanning everything from indie and R&B to jazz and electronic.
Searching for things to do in King's Cross at night? Lafayette is a 600-capacity that can help.
15. Explore The British Library
- Location: 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB
- When: varies on weekends, but 9.30am 'til 8pm on weekdays
- Price: free
- Why we recommend: here you'll be able to explore a wide collection of archival books in a peaceful environment - a lot of people come here to study
Perched behind the grand façade of King’s Cross St Pancras stands the British Library, home to over 170 million items spanning centuries, cultures, and continents. Whether you’re a history buff, a book lover, or just in need of a quiet retreat, this place is an absolute must-visit. Step inside, and you’ll find some of the most precious manuscripts in the world - think Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and even the Magna Carta.
And if music is more your thing? There are handwritten Beatles lyrics on display too. Beyond the books, the British Library is packed with surprises. From free exhibitions showcasing rare literary gems to thought-provoking talks and live performances, there’s always something happening. Need a break? The terrace café is a top spot for people-watching with a coffee in hand, while the King’s Library Tower - a glass-walled collection of George III’s books - stands as a breathtaking centrepiece.
While you can't take the books home, you can use its Reading Rooms.
16. Head Through The King's Cross Light Tunnel
- Location: King's Cross, N1C 4AG
- When: on-going
- Price: free
- Why we recommend: this is a super fun tunnel, perfect for taking Instagram photos or making TikToks - we mean, it's hard to resist when a tunnel looks this good
We admit it, we love a photo opportunity as much as the next person and The King's Cross Light Tunnel certainly provides that. Often dubbed the 'Rainbow Tunnel', it's an immersive experience of colour and movement. Stretching 90 metres from St Pancras International and King’s Cross stations towards Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard, this glowing walkway isn’t just a practical route - it’s a dynamic, ever-changing canvas.
The tunnel’s LED ‘art wall’ features 190 vertical light pixels encased in toughened glass, creating an eye-catching display that shifts with artistic commissions and special events. More than just a pretty backdrop, the tunnel has been used as a runway for London Fashion Week, a hub for AI festival CogX, and even a yoga studio bathed in soothing light.
The tunnel was designed by Allies and Morrison Architects, Speirs Major, and The Light Lab.
17. Get Cultured In Granary Square
- Location: 1 Granary Square, N1C 4AA
- When: open 24 hours, however restaurants shut around 11pm
- Price: free
- Why we recommend: we like to have a pit stop here, often surrounded by children diving in and out of the automatic fountains on a warm day, and some engaging, seasonal exhibitions and installations
Right in the heart of King’s Cross is Granary Square; once a Victorian-era canal basin where barges unloaded their goods, this stunning public space has been transformed into a lively hub of fountains, food, and fun - perfect for a laid-back day out. The star of the show? Over 1,000 choreographed fountains that dance, shimmer, and light up as the day goes on. And by night, the illuminated display is nothing short of magical.
Foodies will love the surrounding top-tier restaurants, from the ever-popular Caravan to the much-loved Granary Square Brasserie. Beyond eating and drinking, it’s home to Central Saint Martins, where you might spot the next big thing in fashion or art, and the square itself hosts everything from open-air film screenings and family festivals to fashion shows and art installations.
For things to do near King's Cross with kids, take them to Granary Square's fountains.
18. Browse Books On A Boat At Word On The Water
- Location: Regent's Canal Towpath, N1C 4LW
- When: every day, 12pm 'til 7pm
- Why we recommend: if you're into your cute, quirky shops, then you'll love this boat - it has everything you could want, from popular books to classics, at a reasonable price
Book lovers, rejoice, we've got a treat for you. Nestled on Regent’s Canal lies one of London’s most charming hidden gems - Word on the Water, a 100-year-old Dutch barge turned floating bookshop. Step aboard, and you’ll find shelves stacked high with new and secondhand treasures, from cult classics and contemporary fiction to beautifully illustrated children’s books.
Whether you’re on the hunt for your next great read or just looking to soak up the cosy atmosphere by the wood-burning stove, this is the perfect literary escape. The barge’s rooftop doubles as a stage, hosting live music, open mic nights, poetry slams, and thought-provoking talks on art, technology, and politics. With its quirky charm, solar-powered sound system, and ever-changing lineup of events and readings, this floating paradise is a must-visit for bookworms.
Word On The Water is open every day, except for Christmas.
19. Get Competitive At Electric Shuffle
- Location: 1 Lewis Cubbit Park, N1C 4EJ
- When: every day, opening times vary
- Price: £15 per person for 90 minutes, for groups of 2-32
- Why we recommend: you get four fun games to choose from, as well as great lunch deals and brunches - ideal for an alternative day out with your mates (or even a fun work social)
Looking for a quirky activity bar to get competitive at with your friends? Then head to Electric Shuffle near Coal Drops Yard, where you can play an interactive game of shuffleboard with up to 16 people at a time. Their high-tech system adds up your scores for you, and there's a range of unique, multiplayer games to choose from.
The sleek venue is filled with retro glamour and art deco-inspired interiors, as well as cosy seating areas. The bar is whipping up a variety of creative signature cocktails, which you can enjoy alongside sharing pizzas and tasty small plates. Plus, they host boozy brunches on weekends, promising an hour of gaming, unlimited pizza and a whole bottle of prosecco or four beers each.
This quirky activity bar is a great choice of competitive things to do in King's Cross.
20. Devour Street Food From Canopy Market
- Location: West Handyside Canopy, N1C 4BH
- When: Friday until 8pm, and weekends until 6pm
- Traders: Outsider Tarts, Natural Wines, Byuwaz, Pad + Sen, Pylon Ceramics and more
- Why we recommend: Canopy Market is a lively area with some droolworthy street food and trinkets that make good gifts - a great shout if you're looking for something to buy for a foodie or trinket enthusiast
Hungry? We thought so. Stroll over to Canopy Market, the buzzy market just off Granary Square, where artisan traders, independent makers, and foodies unite every Friday to Sunday. Here, you’ll find delicious street food, farm-fresh produce, award-winning cheeses, craft beer, and exquisite desserts - all from some of London’s best small producers. But it’s not just about the food; there’s also a stylish selection of handmade jewellery, ceramics, accessories, and homewares, perfect for picking up something unique.
With live music, craft drink stalls, and a regularly rotating lineup of traders (such as Bread Ahead, Holy Sugar and Churros Garcia to name a few), every visit brings something new. Plus, special feature weekends - think botanical markets, craft fairs, and chocolate extravaganzas - mean there’s always a fresh reason to return. And if you love art, keep an eye out for Canopy Exhibitions, which transform the market into a pop-up gallery, showcasing work from a community of talented artists.
Find your new favourite street food here or pick up some unique gifts.
21. Be Wowed At London Cabaret Carnival
- Location: Jamboree, 6 St Chad's Place, London, WC1X 9HH
- When: Saturdays
- Price: from £15 per person
- Why we recommend: this affordable show brings quirky performances that span from burlesque to circus acts to the stage in the heart of King's Cross, and we're all for it
Looking for a night packed with entertainment and thrills? The London Cabaret Carnival at Jamboree, King’s Cross, is an electrifying blend of circus acts, comedy, burlesque, and live music that promises an unforgettable evening.
Tickets start at just £15, making it an accessible way to experience some of London’s most vibrant and daring performers all under one roof. Whether you’re a cabaret fan or new to the scene, this carnival-style show is a must-see for anyone looking to spice up their night out.
Check out some brilliant performances at the London Cabaret Carnival.
22. Head To A Comedy Freaks Show
- Location: 26 Caledonian Road, N1 9DT
- When: every Friday
- Price: from £8.50 per person
- Why we recommend: you're bound to leave with your sides aching (in a totally good way) thanks to a selection of brilliant UK comedians, and the tickets are very affordable too
Looking for a laugh this Friday? Comedy Freaks host a show each week, featuring a diverse new lineup of UK comedians every single time. You can expect to see some well-established acts, as well as up-and-coming new comedians.
They even sometimes feature surprise appearances from talented TV comics, and tickets start from just £8.50 per person. Plus, you can add some brilliant drinks deals on to this price too.
Laugh the night away at Comedy Freaks.
23. Dracapella
- Location: Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, London, N4 3JP
- When: 3rd December 2025 - 17th January 2026
- Price: from £19 per person
- Why we recommend: if you like your shows a little unserious, and twists on classic stories, this Dracapella is for you. Prepare to giggle your way through this fantastic production
From £19, you can sink your teeth into Dracapella, a hilarious, toe-tapping twist on Bram Stoker’s gothic classic. This world premiere at The Park Theatre brings you eight powerhouse vocalists, acapella versions of iconic hits like Somebody To Love and The Great Pretender, and outrageous comedy that’ll leave you howling with laughter.
The Count is on the hunt for his eternal love, but a mad band of characters is determined to stop him… with unexpected and hysterical results.
The poster for Dracapella (pictured).
Looking for more things to do in the area? Check out our guide to the best Sunday roasts in King's Cross.
