Embankment Place, London: A Postmodern Riverside Hub
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
Embankment Place is a striking postmodern office and shopping complex located in central London, perched above Charing Cross railway station and adjacent to the River Thames. Developed between 1986 and 1990, it combines modern architectural design with a vibrant urban riverside atmosphere. It is a key landmark near Embankment Pier and close to iconic city sites like Trafalgar Square and the Strand.
A brief summary to Embankment Pl
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to enjoy riverside views along the Victoria Embankment and nearby landmarks.
- Use Embankment Underground station for easy access; multiple lines connect here including Circle and District.
- Explore nearby cultural sites like Trafalgar Square and the Strand to enrich your visit.
- Check out the riverboat services at Embankment Pier for a scenic Thames cruise.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Embankment station, served by the Circle, District, Northern, and Bakerloo lines. Travel times from central London stations range from 5 to 15 minutes. The station is fully accessible and located adjacent to Embankment Place.
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Riverboat
Use Thames Clippers river services from various piers along the Thames to Embankment Pier. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on departure point. Tickets cost approximately £6-£12 one way, with frequent daily services.
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Taxi or Chauffeur
Taxis and chauffeur cars can access Embankment Place via Villiers Street. There is no onsite parking, but nearby public car parks such as at St Martin’s Lane Hotel offer parking options. Traffic congestion may affect travel times.
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square or the Strand, walking to Embankment Place takes about 10 to 15 minutes on mostly flat, paved urban terrain. The area is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Embankment Pl location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Embankment Pl
Architectural and Urban Significance
Embankment Place is a notable example of postmodern architecture in London, constructed from 1986 to 1990. It occupies much of the space above Charing Cross railway station, integrating office spaces and retail outlets within a sleek, modern complex. The design reflects the 1980s and 1990s architectural trends, combining functional urban infrastructure with aesthetic appeal. Its location along the Victoria Embankment offers a unique riverside setting that blends the bustle of the city with the calm of the River Thames.Historical Context and Location
Situated in the City of Westminster, Embankment Place stands on the site of the former Hungerford Market and directly above one of London's key railway termini, Charing Cross station. The area has long been a transport and commercial hub, with the station dating back to 1864. The development of Embankment Place revitalized this central zone, linking it visually and functionally to the surrounding urban fabric, including nearby landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and the Strand.Riverside Ambience and Connectivity
Embankment Place benefits from its proximity to the River Thames, with Embankment Pier nearby providing riverboat services that connect to other parts of London. The riverside walkways and views across the Thames to landmarks like the London Eye and Westminster Bridge enhance the location’s appeal. The complex is also adjacent to Embankment Underground station, making it highly accessible and a key node in London's transport network.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors to Embankment Place can enjoy a blend of office, retail, and leisure spaces, with cafes and shops that cater to both workers and tourists. The complex’s modern design creates an inviting environment for business and casual visitors alike. Although there is no onsite parking, nearby facilities and excellent public transport connections make it convenient to reach. The area is fully accessible, with street-level entrances and provisions for disabled visitors.Nearby Cultural and Cinematic Connections
The vicinity of Embankment Place is rich in cultural history and has featured in popular media. Embankment Station nearby was a filming location for the James Bond movie "Skyfall," adding a cinematic allure to the area. Close to iconic London sites such as Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, and Covent Garden, the location offers visitors a gateway to explore London's heritage, theatre, and vibrant city life.Modern Urban Life and Sustainability
Today, Embankment Place stands as a symbol of London's evolving urban landscape, balancing commercial use with public access to the riverfront. The development respects the city's heritage while promoting sustainable urban design principles, encouraging pedestrian access and public transport use. Its riverside position also highlights the importance of London's waterways as both transport routes and recreational spaces.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Embankment Pl
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Experience the vibrant charm of Embankment Place, a picturesque riverside destination in the heart of London, perfect for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.
Embankment station
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Discover the charm of Embankment Station, a historic gateway to London's iconic landmarks along the River Thames, blending Victorian elegance with modern transport.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
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A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Charing Cross
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Explore the vibrant Charing Cross station in London, a historic transport hub surrounded by iconic attractions and rich culture.
Eleanor Cross
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A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
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A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
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A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Cleopatra's Needle
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An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
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A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Henry Fawcett Monument
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A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
16-18 Whitehall
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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.
John Adam St & Adam St
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Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
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Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Nelson's Column
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A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
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A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Embankment station
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Historic and bustling central London Tube station connecting four major lines near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gordon's Wine Bar
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Experience the charm of London at Gordon's Wine Bar, the city's oldest wine bar, offering a delightful selection of wines and traditional British cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
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A historic and tranquil riverside garden in central London, blending Victorian heritage with peaceful green spaces and cultural memorials.
York Watergate
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Explore York Watergate, a serene historical landmark on the River Thames, rich in maritime heritage and stunning views perfect for tourists.
Benjamin Franklin House
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Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Bustronome London
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Savor gourmet dining aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while cruising past London’s iconic landmarks in unmatched style and comfort.
Charing Cross
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Charing Cross and the Strand: a historic London gateway blending culture, theatre, and vibrant city life along a legendary riverside street.
Victoria Embankment Gardens: Whitehall Gardens
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A peaceful riverside garden in central London blending historic monuments, vibrant blooms, and tranquil green spaces along the Thames.
Whitehall Gardens
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Tranquil Victorian riverside garden with historic statues and scenic Thames views in the heart of London.
The Ghost Bus Tours
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Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
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Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
Grand Building
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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 Boat Show Comedy Club
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Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
Banqueting House
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Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
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An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
Essential places to dine
The Northall
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Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
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A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ekstedt at The Yard
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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.
wagamama southbank
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Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
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Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Rules
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London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Wahaca Southbank
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Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Ping Pong Southbank
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Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
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A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
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Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Chez Antoinette
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Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Clos Maggiore
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Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts of London
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
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Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
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Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
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Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
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Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Floral Street
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Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
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Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
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Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
London Transport Museum - Shop
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Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
St Martin's Courtyard
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Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Houses of Parliament Shop
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Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Shades
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Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
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Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
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Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
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A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Harp, Covent Garden
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A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
American Bar
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Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
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Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Beaufort Bar
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Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Upstairs At Rules
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Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
All Bar One Covent Garden
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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.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
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Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Blame Gloria - Covent Garden
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Dive into Gloria's basement disco den for neon cocktails, drag-fueled brunches, and 70s fever in Covent Garden's wild underbelly.
Mrs Riot
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Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Blind Spot London
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Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Postmodern Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly