Background

King's College London Strand Campus

Historic riverside campus blending classical architecture with modern academia in central London’s vibrant cultural heart.

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King's College London's Strand Campus is the historic founding site located on the Strand in central London. Adjacent to Somerset House and overlooking the River Thames, it houses faculties of arts, humanities, law, social sciences, and natural sciences. The campus blends iconic 19th-century architecture with modern expansions, offering rich cultural and academic experiences in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to King's College London

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Great Hall and Edmond J. Safra Lecture Theatre to appreciate the blend of historic and modern architecture.
  • Explore nearby cultural landmarks like Somerset House and Covent Garden to enrich your visit.
  • Use the Temple Underground station for the closest and most convenient access to the campus.
  • Check out the Inigo Rooms exhibition space for public cultural events curated by King's Cultural Institute.
  • Take advantage of step-free access points and lifts throughout the campus for easy mobility.
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Getting There

  • Underground

    The nearest Tube station is Temple, served by the Circle and District lines, approximately a 2-minute walk to the campus. Charing Cross and Covent Garden stations are also within a 10-12 minute walk. Single journey fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on the time and ticket type.

  • Train

    Charing Cross railway station is the closest mainline station, about a 9-minute walk from the campus. Waterloo and Waterloo East stations are within 10-12 minutes on foot. Train ticket prices vary by origin but central London fares typically start around £5.

  • Bus

    Several bus stops serve the area around the Strand Campus, including Aldwych Drury Lane and Lancaster Place. Bus routes connect to major London hubs, with typical fares around £1.65 per journey using an Oyster card or contactless payment.

  • Car and Bicycle

    On-street parking is limited with Blue Badge bays on a first-come basis; several public car parks are available within 1 km. Secure bicycle parking is available on campus with prior registration. Barclays Cycle Hire stations are nearby for convenient bike rentals.

King's College London location weather suitability

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Discover more about King's College London

A Historic Academic Heart in Central London

King's College London's Strand Campus is the university's original and flagship site, established in 1829. Situated on the north bank of the River Thames along the Strand, the campus is steeped in history and architectural grandeur. The centerpiece is the Grade I listed King's Building, designed by Sir Robert Smirke in 1831, whose classical façade complements the adjacent Somerset House, fulfilling a long-standing vision to complete the riverfront's elegant design. The college chapel, redesigned in 1864 by Sir George Gilbert Scott, adds to the historic atmosphere, blending Gothic revival elements with the campus's classical style.

Academic Diversity and Expansion

Strand Campus is home to several of King's faculties, including Arts & Humanities, the Dickson Poon School of Law, Natural & Mathematical Sciences, and Social Science & Public Policy. Over recent decades, the campus has expanded significantly, incorporating the East Wing of Somerset House, the Virginia Woolf Building, and the historic Bush House complex through a 50-year lease. These additions have modernized the campus while preserving its heritage, providing state-of-the-art lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and public exhibition spaces such as the Inigo Rooms curated by the King's Cultural Institute.

Architectural and Cultural Landmarks

The campus boasts a blend of historic and contemporary architecture. The Great Hall and the Edmond J. Safra Lecture Theatre offer grand spaces for lectures and events, featuring period details and modern acoustics. The Anatomy Lecture Theatre and Museum preserve medical teaching traditions with historic features and natural daylight. The campus also includes a scenic outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames, perfect for reflection and social gatherings. Nearby cultural landmarks such as Somerset House, the Royal Courts of Justice, and Covent Garden enrich the campus environment, situating it within London's vibrant cultural and legal districts.

Accessibility and Facilities

Strand Campus prioritizes accessibility with step-free entrances, lifts, and ramps throughout the buildings. Key entrances are clearly signed and provide access to ground floors and faculty areas. The campus offers a range of facilities including study spaces, food outlets, prayer rooms, and secure bicycle parking. Disability support services are located in Bush House South East Wing. The campus is well connected by public transport, with nearby Tube stations including Temple, Charing Cross, and Covent Garden, and close proximity to major railway stations such as Charing Cross and Waterloo.

Location and Surroundings

Positioned in the City of Westminster, the Strand Campus enjoys a prestigious riverside location with iconic views of the Thames and London skyline. The campus is a short walk from major London attractions including Trafalgar Square, St Paul's Cathedral, and the West End theatres. Its central location places it at the crossroads of London's cultural, legal, and political life, making it a dynamic hub for students and visitors alike.

Legacy and Future Growth

King's College London continues to invest in the Strand Campus, with ongoing development plans for King House and Melbourne House to be integrated by 2025. This commitment ensures the campus remains a leading academic environment while preserving its historic character. The campus archives hold notable collections, including papers of distinguished figures, underscoring King's role in British educational and cultural history.

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