Canada House
A grand Greek Revival building on Trafalgar Square, Canada House is a cultural and diplomatic showcase for Canada in the heart of London.
Canada House stands proudly on the west side of Trafalgar Square in London, a grand Greek Revival building that has served as the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom since 1925. The building is a Grade II* listed heritage site, renowned for its elegant architecture and its role as a cultural and diplomatic showcase for Canada. Visitors can explore the Canada Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions of Canadian art, or join a guided tour to experience the building’s historic rooms and rooftop terrace. Canada House is a symbol of Canada’s enduring presence in the heart of London.
A brief summary to Canada House
- Pall Mall E, London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Register in advance for guided tours, as spaces are limited and walk-ins are not permitted.
- Visit the Canada Gallery for free, open to the public Monday to Saturday, to see contemporary Canadian art.
- Be prepared for airport-style security screening and bring government-issued photo ID.
- Large bags, rucksacks, and suitcases are not allowed inside the building.
- Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on guided tours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
Canada House is easily accessible on foot from most central London locations, including Charing Cross, Trafalgar Square, and the National Gallery. The walk from Charing Cross Station takes about 5 minutes, while from Covent Garden it is a 10-minute stroll.
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Public Transport
Take the Underground to Charing Cross Station (Bakerloo, Northern, and District lines) and exit onto Trafalgar Square. From there, Canada House is a short walk to the west side of the square. Buses 12, 139, 159, 176, and 87 stop nearby.
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Cycling
London’s Santander Cycles are available at several docking stations near Trafalgar Square. Cycle lanes and quiet streets make it easy to reach Canada House from central London neighborhoods.
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Taxi/Rideshare
Taxis and rideshares can drop you off directly at Canada House on Trafalgar Square. The area is busy, so expect some traffic, especially during peak hours.
Canada House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Canada House
A Legacy of Diplomacy and Design
Canada House, originally built between 1824 and 1827 by Sir Robert Smirke, has played a pivotal role in Canada’s diplomatic history. Initially housing the Union Club and the Royal College of Physicians, the building was acquired by the Canadian government in 1923 to centralize its diplomatic operations. The renovations overseen by architect Septimus Warwick transformed the structure into a fitting home for Canada’s High Commission, blending British architectural tradition with Canadian craftsmanship. The building’s grand façade, reclad in Portland stone, and its interior spaces, adorned with Canadian art and furnishings, reflect the nation’s commitment to both heritage and innovation.A Cultural Showcase in the Heart of London
The revitalized Canada House is more than a diplomatic outpost; it is a vibrant cultural center. The Canada Gallery, open to the public, features a rotating program of exhibitions highlighting contemporary Canadian art and design. The building’s interior rooms are named after Canada’s provinces and territories, each decorated with textiles, carpets, and artworks that celebrate regional diversity. The recent renovations have brought natural light deep into the building, with skylights and open workspaces that create a bright, welcoming atmosphere. The rooftop terrace offers a unique vantage point over Trafalgar Square, providing visitors with a memorable perspective on one of London’s most iconic landmarks.Centuries of History and Modern Relevance
Canada House has witnessed significant moments in Canadian and British history, from its official opening by King George V in 1925 to its role as a home away from home for Canadians during World War II. The building has undergone several major renovations, most recently in 2014, which linked it to the former Sun Life Assurance Company building on Cockspur Street. These updates have ensured that Canada House remains a modern, functional space while preserving its historic character. The building’s ongoing role in promoting Canadian culture and diplomacy makes it a vital link between Canada and the United Kingdom, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the intersection of history, art, and international relations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Nelson's Column
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Old Admiralty Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
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London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
Trafalgar Square
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Grand Building
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National Portrait Gallery
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Edith Cavell Memorial
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Essential places to dine
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Bantof
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly