University College London: Historic Academic Heart of Bloomsbury
Explore UCL’s historic Bloomsbury campus, a pioneering university blending tradition, innovation, and vibrant student life in central London.
University College London (UCL), located on Gower Street in central London, is a world-leading multidisciplinary university renowned for its historic Bloomsbury campus and pioneering spirit. Founded in 1826, UCL was the first university in England to admit students regardless of religion and to welcome women, fostering a legacy of inclusivity and innovation. Its iconic Wilkins Building and modern facilities blend tradition with cutting-edge research in a vibrant academic community.
A brief summary to University College London
- Gower St, London, WC1E 6BT, GB
- +442076792000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 4pm for self-guided tours with available prospectuses at the Front Lodge on Gower Street.
- Book guided campus tours in advance, available on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, led by current students or staff.
- Explore UCL’s free museums and collections, including the Grant Museum of Zoology and the Petrie Museum, some requiring advance booking.
- Check for ongoing renovations, such as the Main Quad refurbishment, which may affect tour routes and access.
- Contact departments directly if interested in specialized visits or academic collaborations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Tottenham Court Road station (Central and Northern lines), approximately a 5-10 minute walk to UCL’s main entrance on Gower Street. Services run frequently throughout the day with fares starting around £2.50 using contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near UCL, including routes 10, 24, 29, 73, and 390, connecting from various parts of central London. Buses run regularly with a single fare of £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Taxis and ride-hailing services can drop you directly at Gower Street. Travel times vary depending on traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares starting at £10-£15.
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Walking
For nearby visitors, walking to UCL is a pleasant option, especially from the British Museum or Covent Garden areas. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes on mostly flat, urban terrain with good pedestrian access.
University College London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about University College London
A Legacy of Radical Education and Inclusion
Founded in 1826, University College London broke new ground by welcoming students from all religious backgrounds and admitting women, a revolutionary stance at the time. This progressive ethos shaped UCL into a beacon of inclusive higher education in England. Over nearly two centuries, it has expanded into a global leader in multidisciplinary teaching and research, consistently ranking among the top universities worldwide. Its commitment to academic excellence and social impact remains central to its mission.The Bloomsbury Campus and Architectural Heritage
UCL’s main campus is nestled in the Bloomsbury district of the London Borough of Camden, centered around Gower Street. The campus is renowned for its historic architecture, notably the Grade I listed Wilkins Building, designed by William Wilkins, which forms the iconic Main Quad. Nearby, the Grade II listed Cruciform Building and the Kathleen Lonsdale and Rockefeller Buildings reflect UCL’s rich architectural heritage. These structures house a variety of faculties and research institutes, blending classical design with modern academic facilities.Academic Excellence Across Diverse Disciplines
With over 100 departments and research centres organized into 11 faculties, UCL offers a comprehensive range of programs from medicine and law to engineering, arts, and social sciences. It boasts a vibrant research community, including 32 Nobel laureates and numerous highly cited academics. The university’s innovative approach fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration, addressing real-world challenges and advancing knowledge across fields.A Dynamic Student Experience in London’s Cultural Hub
Situated in the heart of London, UCL benefits from proximity to cultural landmarks such as the British Museum, British Library, and the West End theatre district. The campus buzzes with over 45,000 students from more than 150 countries, creating a diverse and international atmosphere. Students enjoy access to extensive libraries, museums, and social spaces, including the historic Donaldson Reading Room and the lively Huntley pub. UCL also hosts numerous clubs, societies, and events that enrich campus life.Expansion and Innovation: UCL East Campus
In addition to its Bloomsbury base, UCL has developed a second campus at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, known as UCL East. Opened in phases starting in 2022, this modern campus focuses on innovation and sustainability, offering new teaching and research spaces alongside student accommodation. It exemplifies UCL’s forward-looking vision, integrating technology and biodiversity to shape future urban environments.Engaging Visitors and Prospective Students
UCL welcomes visitors with self-guided and guided tours of its Bloomsbury campus, highlighting its historic buildings and vibrant academic environment. Tours are led by student ambassadors and staff, providing insights into university life and study opportunities. The campus is largely accessible, with special arrangements available for those with mobility needs. Visitors can also explore UCL’s museums and collections, many of which are open to the public free of charge.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Euston War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
St Pancras New Church
0.4 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Statue of Thomas Coram
0.9 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Denmark St
1.1 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
St Giles in the Fields
1.1 km
Medieval leper hospital turned Palladian masterpiece—nearly 1000 years of London's sacred and troubled history
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
1.1 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Sicilian Avenue
1.1 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
The Photographers' Gallery
1.1 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Upper Wimpole St
1.1 km
Discover the quiet elegance and rich history of Upper Wimpole Street, a Georgian gem in the heart of Marylebone.
190 High Holborn
1.2 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Smallest Street in London
1.2 km
Discover Emerald Court, London's famously narrow 26-inch alley in Bloomsbury, a hidden historic gem weaving through Georgian and modern London.
covent Garden ,
1.2 km
Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Soho
1.2 km
London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
1.2 km
Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
1.3 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gordon Sq
0.3 km
Tranquil Bloomsbury garden square steeped in literary history and academic heritage in central London.
Euston Square Gardens
0.3 km
A serene Victorian-era garden oasis nestled beside London’s bustling Euston Road and transport hub.
Tavistock Square
0.3 km
A tranquil Georgian square in Bloomsbury, rich in literary history and peace memorials, embodying resilience and reflection in central London.
Torrington Square
0.4 km
A tranquil university-owned garden square in Bloomsbury blending historic heritage with academic vibrancy and green respite.
Fitzroy Square
0.4 km
Discover Fitzroy Square, a serene Georgian oasis in London’s West End, renowned for its elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Woburn Walk
0.4 km
Step into a Regency-era pedestrian street in Bloomsbury, where history, architecture, and literary legacy converge in a tranquil urban retreat.
Pollocks Toy Museum
0.5 km
A whimsical journey through Victorian toys and childhood history in London’s charming Pollock’s Toy Museum.
Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Gallery
0.5 km
Explore the legacy of Britain’s first female doctor through interactive exhibits in a beautifully restored historic hospital gallery in London.
Goodge St
0.6 km
Discover Goodge Street, a historic Fitzrovia street blending Georgian charm, wartime heritage, and vibrant urban life in central London.
Middlesex House
0.6 km
Contemporary office spaces in a converted warehouse, centred around a light-filled atrium courtyard in creative Fitzrovia.
Goodge Place Market
0.6 km
Discover Fitzrovia’s hidden gem for gourmet street food, vibrant atmosphere, and a perfect lunchtime escape in central London.
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
0.6 km
Discover the serene elegance and rich history of Bedford Square & Montague Place, London's finest Georgian architectural oasis in Bloomsbury.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Fitzrovia at The Cocktail Club, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await your arrival.
Bedford Square Gardens
0.7 km
Discover Bedford Square Gardens, London’s finest Georgian square with elegant architecture and a tranquil, historic private garden.
Russell Sq
0.7 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
Essential places to dine
The Ninth
0.7 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Portland
0.8 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Noble Rot Soho
1.1 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Blanchette
1.1 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
1.1 km
A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
Inamo
1.1 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
1.1 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Quo Vadis
1.2 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Social Eating House
1.2 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Hoppers Soho
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Starbucks Coffee
1.2 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
1.3 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Frida Camden
1.3 km
Authentic Mexican cuisine with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Camden, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That of London
0.9 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Primark
0.9 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Souvenir Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.9 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Radha's Boutique
1.0 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
1.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
House of secrets
1.0 km
Step into House of Secrets on Oxford Street and discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and enchanting souvenirs in the heart of London.
The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾
1.1 km
Experience the magic of Harry Potter at The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ in London, a must-visit destination for fans and tourists alike.
Goldsmith Vintage
1.1 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Berwick St
1.1 km
London's legendary market where 18th-century tradition meets contemporary street food culture and vinyl heritage.
Reckless Records
1.1 km
Discover music history and rare vinyl in the heart of Soho at Reckless Records, London’s iconic independent record shop.
237 Oxford St
1.1 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
1.1 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates
1.2 km
Artisan chocolate craftsmanship in the heart of Soho, where award-winning sea salted caramels and inventive flavours await.
Beyond Retro Soho
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cosy Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.7 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Punch Room
0.9 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
The Coral Room
0.9 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
NQ64 Soho
1.0 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
The Little Scarlet Door
1.2 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Thirst Bar Soho
1.2 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Basement Sate
1.2 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Argyll Arms
1.2 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Henson's Bar and Social
1.2 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Princess Louise
1.2 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Simmons Bar | Soho
1.2 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
1.2 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
The Duke
1.2 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
101 Nightclub London
1.0 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
1.0 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
1.1 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
La Capannina Club
1.2 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Max's Other Flat
1.2 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at Max's Other Flat, a must-visit nightclub in London offering electrifying music and unforgettable moments.
Club49Soho
1.2 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Sunset night club
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
The Roxy
1.3 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.3 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Box Soho
1.3 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.3 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
1.3 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Ivy Club
1.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Carwash Nightclub
1.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
