Queen's Tower: A Majestic Tribute in South Kensington
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, serves as a remarkable reminder of London's rich heritage. Towering at 43 meters, it is the last remaining part of the Imperial Institute, built to commemorate Queen Victoria. Visitors can enjoy its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, making it a must-see for tourists exploring the area.
A brief summary to Queen's Tower
- 7 Imperial College Rd, London, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, GB
- +442075895111
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions, such as the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions taking place at the nearby Imperial College.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, navigate to Queen's Tower at 7 Imperial College Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ. From Middlesex, take the M4 motorway towards Central London. Exit at junction 1 for the A4 towards Central London. Follow the A4 until you reach the junction with the A3220 (South Kensington). Continue on the A3220 and follow signs for South Kensington. Upon approaching, look for parking options in nearby car parks, as street parking may be limited and could incur costs (approximately £4-£6 per hour).
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Train
To reach Queen's Tower by train, head to your nearest train station in Middlesex and take a train to London Paddington Station. From Paddington, switch to the London Underground (Tube) and take the Circle or District Line towards South Kensington. Once you arrive at South Kensington Station, exit and walk approximately 10 minutes to Queen's Tower. Follow signs towards Imperial College; the tower is located at 7 Imperial College Rd. Note: Train tickets may vary in cost, generally around £10-£20 depending on your departure point.
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Bus
If you prefer to use the bus, check local bus services in Middlesex that connect to Central London. You can take a bus towards Victoria Station or South Kensington. Once you arrive at South Kensington, you can walk to Queen's Tower from there, which is about a 15-minute walk. Bus fares typically range from £1.50 to £2.50.
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Taxi/Rideshare
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare app like Uber. Simply enter 'Queen's Tower, 7 Imperial College Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ' as your destination. The cost for a taxi from central Middlesex to Queen's Tower will vary, but expect to pay between £25-£40 depending on traffic and exact pick-up location.
Discover more about Queen's Tower
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
37 Thurloe St
0.5 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
0.6 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
142 Cromwell Rd
0.8 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Kensington War Memorial
1.1 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Speke Monument
1.2 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
The Old Police House
1.3 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
1.4 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.4 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Belgrave Square
1.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Belgrave Square, a historic gem in London, surrounded by elegant architecture and lush gardens.
Sussex Gardens
1.7 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Chelsea Old Church
1.7 km
Explore the historic Chelsea Old Church, an architectural gem along the Thames, offering tranquility and a glimpse into London's rich heritage.
Clanricarde Gardens
1.8 km
Elegant Notting Hill cul-de-sac facing Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, where Victorian charm meets contemporary luxury.
Notting Hill Hillgate Village
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Notting Hill Hillgate Village, where colorful houses, unique shops, and cultural delights await every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Science Museum
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
Natural History Museum
0.2 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
Imperial Cinema
0.2 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Royal Albert Hall
0.3 km
Experience the grandeur and timeless cultural legacy of London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, a world-famous venue for music and the arts.
Victoria and Albert Museum
0.4 km
Explore centuries of art, design, and fashion at London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum, where creativity meets history in a stunning Victorian setting.
The Albert Memorial
0.4 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic monument in Kensington Gardens, honoring Prince Albert’s legacy with intricate sculptures and gilded grandeur.
St Augustine's Church
0.6 km
Discover the striking Gothic Revival beauty and rich Anglo-Catholic heritage of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a William Butterfield masterpiece.
Thin House
0.6 km
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
Sussex Mansions
0.6 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
The Hole in the Wall
0.6 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
Serpentine Gallery
0.7 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and architecture in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London’s iconic cultural oasis.
HTB Onslow Square
0.8 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
0.8 km
A serene, interactive water memorial in Hyde Park honoring Princess Diana’s life and legacy through innovative design and tranquil reflection.
Knightsbridge
0.9 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Queen Caroline's Temple
0.9 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical summerhouse in Kensington Gardens, celebrating Queen Caroline’s artistic and landscape legacy.
Essential places to dine
Town House Kensington
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
0.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Grato
0.9 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
0.9 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
0.9 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Dishoom Kensington
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.1 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.2 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Rabbit
1.3 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
The Jam
1.5 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.5 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Grenadier
1.6 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Il Portico
1.6 km
Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Science Museum Shop
0.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.3 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
V&A Shop
0.4 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Jigsaw
1.0 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.0 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.1 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Good
1.2 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.4 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
the Design Museum Shop
1.6 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
1.6 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Octavia Foundation - Kensington
1.7 km
Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.
The London Shop
1.7 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Notting hill store
1.8 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
The gift store
2.0 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 190
0.3 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
K Bar
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
0.7 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Stables Bar
0.8 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
The Builders Arms
0.8 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
AMARO BAR - London
0.9 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
0.9 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.1 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.3 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
1.6 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.7 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.9 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Dickens Tavern
1.9 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Metric
0.2 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Dolce Night Club , London
0.5 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
0.7 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.6 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.7 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
Ricco London
2.4 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.6 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
The Globe
2.6 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Tabu London
2.7 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Duke of Wellington
2.7 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
Carwash Nightclub
2.8 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Scotch of St James
3.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
3.0 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Subteranian
3.1 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
