City Hall, London - Sustainable Headquarters of the Greater London Authority
Explore London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a beacon of sustainable governance and modern architecture in the vibrant Royal Docks.
City Hall in London’s Royal Docks is the modern, sustainable headquarters of the Greater London Authority, housing the Mayor of London and London Assembly. Opened in 2012 and designed by WilkinsonEyre, this striking building was formerly known as The Crystal and is renowned for its cutting-edge eco-friendly technologies. Visitors can explore parts of the building during weekdays, enjoy panoramic views, attend public debates, or relax in the riverside café overlooking the Royal Victoria Dock.
A brief summary to City Hall
- Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE, GB
- +442079834000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit Monday to Thursday between 8:30am and 6pm or Friday until 5:30pm to access public areas and enjoy free Wi-Fi.
- Attend a public meeting in the Assembly Chamber’s seating gallery to experience London’s civic debates firsthand.
- Enjoy seasonal dishes and riverside views at London’s Kitchen Café on the ground floor, open to all visitors.
- Use nearby public transport options such as Royal Victoria DLR, Custom House Elizabeth line, or the Emirates Air Line cable car for convenient access.
- Explore the surrounding Royal Docks area to appreciate its regeneration, community gardens, and waterfront atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Royal Victoria or West Silvertown stations, both within a 10-minute walk of City Hall. Alternatively, use the Elizabeth line to Custom House station, approximately 12 minutes on foot. Single fares range from £2.40 to £4.90 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Cable Car
Use the Emirates Air Line cable car from the Royal Docks, arriving at the IFS Cloud cable car station adjacent to City Hall. The journey offers scenic views across the Thames and costs about £4.50 for a single trip.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area, including the 474, 147, 241, 325, and 678. Buses run frequently during the day with fares typically under £2.50 using contactless payment.
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Cycling
Covered bike racks are available behind City Hall on Kamal Chunchie Way, with 66 staff and 52 visitor cycle parking spaces nearby. The area is accessible via London’s extensive cycling network.
City Hall 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 City Hall
Architectural Innovation and Sustainability Leadership
City Hall, located on Kamal Chunchie Way in London’s Royal Docks, is a landmark of sustainable architecture and modern governance. Originally opened in 2012 as The Crystal, an exhibition centre for sustainable development commissioned by Siemens, the building was repurposed in 2022 as the headquarters for the Greater London Authority (GLA), including the offices of the Mayor of London and the London Assembly. Designed by WilkinsonEyre, the building is celebrated for its neo-futuristic style and environmental credentials, holding both BREEAM Outstanding and LEED Platinum certifications. Its all-electric systems, photovoltaic panels, ground source heat pumps, and rainwater harvesting tank collectively reduce carbon emissions by approximately 50% compared to conventional buildings.Location and Surroundings
Situated adjacent to the Royal Victoria Dock, City Hall anchors the revitalized Royal Docks area, a key part of East London's regeneration as a commercial and cultural hub. The building's waterfront setting offers scenic views across the docklands and easy access to nearby transport links including the Royal Victoria DLR station, Custom House station on the Elizabeth line, and the Emirates Air Line cable car. The surrounding landscape is thoughtfully designed as a sustainable urban space featuring community gardens and local food programs, encouraging social engagement and environmental awareness.Public Access and Visitor Experience
Parts of City Hall are open to the public Monday to Thursday from 8:30am to 6pm, and Fridays until 5:30pm. Visitors enter through a secure entrance with metal detectors and bag scans for safety. Inside, the central atrium hosts a reception desk to assist guests. The building offers free Wi-Fi access and a café named London’s Kitchen on the ground floor, which serves fresh seasonal dishes with views over the Royal Docks. Visitors can attend public meetings in the Assembly Chamber’s seating gallery when sessions are in progress. The event space called London’s Living Room, also on the ground floor, provides a bright, modern venue with riverside views and is available for hire.Governance and Civic Significance
City Hall serves as the nerve centre for London’s regional government, housing the offices of the Mayor of London and the London Assembly. The building symbolizes transparency and efficiency in governance, reflecting the GLA’s commitment to sustainable urban development and civic engagement. It replaced the previous City Hall in Southwark in 2022, consolidating London’s political leadership in the Royal Docks area.Architectural Features and Environmental Technologies
The building’s design incorporates numerous advanced environmental technologies. It features 9km of energy piles for heating and cooling, a green roof on the energy centre, and electric vehicle charging stations. The extensive use of high-efficiency LED lighting and solar panels enhances energy savings. The structure’s layout and materials promote natural ventilation and daylighting, reducing reliance on artificial climate control. These features make City Hall a model for sustainable public buildings worldwide.Community Engagement and Cultural Role
Beyond its administrative functions, City Hall plays a role in the local community and culture. The public spaces and gardens foster social activities, while nearby venues and the Royal Docks area host events and exhibitions. The building’s presence supports the vision of East London as a vibrant, sustainable urban district, blending government, culture, and environmental stewardship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anchor Iron Wharf
2.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
2.9 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
2.9 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
3.1 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
3.5 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
3.6 km
Discover the Royal Observatory Greenwich, where history and astronomy collide in a breathtaking setting. Experience the Prime Meridian and explore fascinating exhibitions.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
4.0 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
Shadwell Basin
4.6 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
Execution Dock
4.7 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
5.1 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
5.2 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
5.3 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
5.4 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
5.4 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Montague Square
5.9 km
Discover Montague Square in London, a hidden gem offering tranquility and historical charm amidst the vibrant city life, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Unmissable attractions to see
North Greenwich Pier
0.8 km
Experience the stunning Thames views and vibrant atmosphere at North Greenwich Pier, your gateway to exploring London's riverside attractions.
The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London
0.8 km
Step into the iconic sets of FRIENDS at Excel London and relive your favourite moments with immersive exhibits, photo ops, and exclusive merchandise.
Emirates Aviation Experience
1.0 km
Experience the thrill of piloting iconic aircraft and explore the fascinating world of commercial aviation in London’s Emirates Aviation Experience.
o2
1.0 km
Experience world-class concerts, sports, and entertainment at London's iconic O2 Arena, a vibrant hub on the Greenwich Peninsula.
Up at The O2
1.0 km
Climb the iconic roof of The O2 for an exhilarating 90-minute adventure with stunning 360° views over London’s skyline.
The O2
1.0 km
London’s premier entertainment destination blending world-class concerts, sports, dining, and vibrant nightlife under one iconic dome.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV
1.3 km
A tranquil urban oasis on the Greenwich Peninsula, offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful freshwater landscapes in the heart of London.
Greenwich
1.6 km
Where time begins: stand on the Prime Meridian, explore maritime history, and enjoy panoramic views over the Thames in this UNESCO World Heritage riverside district.
Royal Docks
1.6 km
Discover London's Royal Docks: a vibrant waterfront district blending panoramic views, water activities, and cultural innovation in East London.
International House
1.7 km
A premier language school in central London offering expert English courses and vibrant cultural experiences for global students.
Billingsgate Market
2.0 km
Explore Billingsgate Market, London’s historic and largest inland fish market, bustling with fresh seafood and rich maritime heritage.
Thames Barrier Information Centre
2.2 km
Explore the engineering marvel that protects London from flooding at the Thames Barrier Information Centre with interactive exhibits and riverside views.
Mudchute Park and Farm
2.5 km
Discover 32 acres of urban countryside, rare breeds, and family-friendly farm life in the heart of East London’s Isle of Dogs.
Cutty Sark
2.6 km
Explore the world’s fastest 19th-century tea clipper, a historic maritime marvel docked in Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
West India Quay
2.7 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Essential places to dine
Midpoint Restaurant
2.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
2.7 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Goddards at Greenwich
3.3 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
3.4 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
3.4 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
3.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
3.4 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
3.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
4.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Da Terra Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Nomadic community
6.1 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Behind Restaurant
6.2 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.4 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Brawn
6.5 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
3.1 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
3.3 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
3.4 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Arc Angel Boutique London
3.4 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
3.4 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
3.4 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Made in Greenwich
3.4 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
3.4 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
The Junk Shop
3.8 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
Unique Store
4.0 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Westfield Stratford City
4.2 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westfield Stratford City, London's premier destination for fashion, food, and fun.
La Boutique Vintage
4.3 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Backyard Market
6.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
6.3 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
6.3 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Greenwich
1.0 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
1.2 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Td 338 Bar
1.6 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Greenwich Town Social Club
2.4 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
The Gipsy Moth
3.3 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Kings Arms
3.4 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
3.5 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
Mindful Mixology
3.7 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
The Lost Hour
3.7 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Satan's Whiskers
5.6 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
5.6 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
5.9 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
6.1 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
6.4 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LA Lounge
0.3 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
American Express Invites Lounge
1.0 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
1.2 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
CQ LOUNGE
2.5 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
The Bunker
4.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
5.0 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
5.1 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
E1
5.4 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Club 701
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Hoxton Pony
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.0 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
XOYO LONDON
7.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Steel Yard
7.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
8.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Futuristic Looks
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
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