Old Admiralty Building, London
Historic heart of Britain's Royal Navy administration with iconic architecture and rich wartime legacy in central London.
The Old Admiralty Building in London is a striking historic government office completed in 1905, once the administrative heart of the Royal Navy. Located on Whitehall near Horse Guards Parade, this Grade II listed red-brick and Portland stone building is renowned for its classical architectural details and rich naval history, including its role in World War II intelligence operations. Though interior access is limited, its grand exterior and proximity to iconic London landmarks make it a significant cultural and historical site.
A brief summary to Old Admiralty Building
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Admire the building's grand exterior and take photos from Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade, as interior access is restricted.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like Admiralty Arch, Trafalgar Square, and St James's Park for a full historic experience.
- Look out for visible World War II bomb damage in the courtyard, a poignant reminder of the building’s wartime role.
- Visit during daylight hours to appreciate the architectural details and the surrounding ceremonial spaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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London Underground
Reach the Old Admiralty Building via Westminster Station on the Jubilee or District Line. From there, it is a short 10-15 minute walk along Whitehall. Underground fares range from £2.50 to £4.90 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Whitehall, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Walking
If you are near Trafalgar Square or Buckingham Palace, a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat, paved terrain will bring you to the Old Admiralty Building. The route is wheelchair accessible and passes several historic sites.
Old Admiralty Building location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Old Admiralty Building
Architectural Grandeur and Historic Origins
The Old Admiralty Building (OAB), completed in 1905, stands as a prominent example of early 20th-century government architecture in London. Constructed primarily of red brick and Portland stone with slate and lead roofs, it features French Grand Siècle and English Baroque details, including distinctive copper-topped towers that have weathered to a green patina. The building was designed as a purpose-built office block to accommodate the expanding civil service needs of the British Admiralty, replacing earlier townhouses that had become insufficient by the late 19th century. Its grand facade faces Whitehall and Horse Guards Parade, situating it within the heart of Britain's political and ceremonial center.Naval Command and Wartime Legacy
For over a century, the Old Admiralty Building served as the administrative hub of the Royal Navy, where pivotal naval decisions and operations were planned. Notably, during World War II, the building was the site where "Operation Mincemeat" was devised—a crucial deception plan to mislead Nazi Germany about Allied invasion targets. The building also housed key figures such as Winston Churchill, who served as First Lord of the Admiralty, and Ian Fleming, the author of James Bond, who worked in Naval Intelligence within its walls. Bomb damage from the Blitz remains visible in the courtyard, a testament to its resilience during wartime.Interior Highlights and Cultural Significance
Although public access to the interior is restricted due to its current governmental use, the Old Admiralty Building contains remarkable features such as the Admiralty Board Room, a historic meeting place adorned with finely carved overmantels attributed to the workshop of Grinling Gibbons. Mosaic floors and intricate metalwork balustrades further enrich the building's interior aesthetic. The building also houses part of the Government Art Collection, showcasing works from the 16th century to the present, contributing to its cultural and diplomatic significance.Location and Surrounding Context
Situated on Whitehall, the Old Admiralty Building is adjacent to other historic government offices and landmarks, including Admiralty Arch, the Ripley Building, and Horse Guards Parade. This central location places it within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and St James's Park, allowing visitors to experience a rich tapestry of London’s history and architecture in one area. The building's proximity to green spaces and ceremonial routes enhances its appeal as a scenic and historically resonant site.Modern Use and Preservation Efforts
Today, the building serves as the London headquarters for the Department for Business and Trade, following its previous role housing the Department for International Trade. Between 2016 and 2021, the Old Admiralty Building underwent significant restoration and modernization, including the installation of new bespoke lifts designed to preserve the building’s historic fabric while improving functionality. These efforts ensure that the building continues to meet contemporary government needs while maintaining its heritage status.Legacy and Visitor Experience
The Old Admiralty Building remains a symbol of Britain's naval heritage and governmental history. While interior tours are limited, the building's exterior and its place within the historic Admiralty complex offer visitors a glimpse into the grandeur and strategic importance of Britain's maritime past. Its enduring presence on Whitehall, alongside other iconic structures, makes it a compelling stop for those interested in history, architecture, and the evolution of British governance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Admiralty Building
0.0 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Admiralty Arch
0.1 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Captain James Cook
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
16-18 Whitehall
0.1 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.1 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.1 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Guards Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.3 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Dover House
0.3 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Eleanor Cross
0.3 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.2 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Canada House
0.2 km
Canada House: Historic Greek Revival architecture meets vibrant Canadian culture in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.2 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Horse Guards Parade
0.2 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
Grand Building
0.2 km
A grand Victorian landmark on the Strand, transformed from a luxury hotel into a vibrant cultural and community hub in the heart of London.
The Fourth Plinth
0.2 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.2 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
London by Night Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
Duke of York Column
0.2 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
Carlton House Terrace
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Banqueting House
0.3 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.3 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.3 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Waterloo Pl
0.3 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Essential places to dine
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Wild Honey St James
0.3 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
The Garden
0.3 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.3 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
J Sheekey
0.5 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Bustronome London
0.5 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Rules
0.6 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Golden Lion
0.6 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Clos Maggiore
0.6 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Meet Fresh
0.7 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Crest of London Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.5 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Lillywhites
0.5 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
Unique Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.6 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jermyn St
0.6 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.6 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Floral Street
0.6 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Floris London
0.6 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.7 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
0.1 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.2 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.4 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.4 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Blind Spot London
0.5 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.5 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.6 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.6 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.6 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Ku Bar
0.6 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Upstairs At Rules
0.6 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TSQ Club
0.2 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Heaven
0.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.5 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Tiger Tiger London
0.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Café de Paris
0.5 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Scotch of St James
0.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.6 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Cuckoo Club
0.8 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Sophisticats Soho
0.8 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
