Open House London 2015 Guide

The Open House London Weekend (19th/20th September 2015) has become a highlight of the design calendar for curious Londoners who relish the chance to see inside secret spaces in the capital. But since 1992, when the not-for-profit organisation was founded to give ordinary citizens a greater voice and stake in the outline of their city, the focus has increasingly shifted from inside to outside. For 2015, there are over 800 buildings open to the public, alongside talks, tours and introductions to future architectural projects - and we've picked the best just for you.

Hints and Tips

Open House London 2015 is all about the future for housing and protecting past treasures with the theme of 'Revealing', from fantastic innovations like the new Crossrail to the Emirates High Line. For many of the events you can just turn up on the day, but we recommend checking ahead that booking is not necessary. Experts are also on hand to answer any burning questions. 

Highlights

There are plenty of thrilling destinations to check out in September. On the more quirky end of the scale are the massive Deephams Sewage Treatments Works and the UK's first eco village opening their doors to the public. We also recommend some of the lovely tours around the best buildings in London, from the Bank of England and Whitehall's banqueting house to the National Theatre and Royal Courts of Justice.

Hidden London treats that will surprise include Benjamin Franklin's classic Georgian town house and the Roman remains at the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths. You'll also want to step behind the scenes of the homes of the rich and famous. Don't miss a chance to step behind the door of Kate and William's home at Kensington Palace and Number 10. Downing Street. 

For kids: Open House Junior

The biggest architectural festival in the UK is joined by this wonderful event for kids. For full details of the activities and trails take a look at our full preview.

Open House Junior

If you are on the look out for the best secret sports in London - then this is the festival for you!

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Here are Culture Whisper’s top picks of lesser known treasures both external and internal; visit Open House for more details on visiting times and booking ahead.  

BEST OUTSIDE

1. Eco Village BEDZed

This sustainable community in south London is well worth the trip for a fascinating insight into One Planet Living and the possibilities for architecture in the future. 

2. Sculpture in the City 

Contemporary artworks dot the area from St. Botolph-without-Bishopsgate to the north and Leadenhall Market to the south, including works by Ai Weiwei and Damien Hirst.

3. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park & Lee Valley Velodrome

Capture that 2012 spirit at the landmark Velodrome where Victoria Pendleton and Sir Chris Hoy sent the crowds wild, or take a walk through the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park from Piet Oudolf's planting designs to Anish Kapoor's striking sculpture. 

4. New Covent Garden Flower Market

Smell the roses in Covent Garden's wholesale flower market and discover how it all started, and plans for the future. 

5. Grow Elephant

We love this secret spot for local residents in south east London, where the city's only mobile community garden is in full bloom. You'll find edible treats with a disco and soul DJs all onsite.

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BEST INSIDE

1. Leighton House, Holland Park 

Ravishing Orientalist mosaics adorn the 'Arab Hall' of this house built from 1864 to 1879 for Lord Leighton, a former president of the RA. 

2. 10 Downing Street 

Wondered what David Cameron gets up to everyday? Take a sneak peak behind the scenes at the Prime Minister's residence. There is an Open House London ballot 2015 for this special event, so sign up early to be in with a chance. 

3. BT Tower

Alive and kicking since 1965, this iconic point in the London skyline relays broadcast, internet and telephone information. We can't wait to see that famous revolving floor at 158 metres high in action. 

4. National Theatre, South Bank

Take a stroll through the hallowed halls of the National Theatre, London's favourite cultural hub on the shores of the River THames.

5. McCann London Offices

This striking 1930s Art Deco monument used to be a Daimler Hire garage and now houses the advertising agency McCann London. 

6. Royal Courts of Justice

A stoic Victorian monument with a hearty Gothic twist in the heart of London that is rarely open to the public. A fantastic opportunity to see the stunning main hall, courts and cells at first hand.

7. Whitehall Banqueting House

Rubens's beautiful ceiling painting adorns this regal building which used to be part of Whitehall Palace. It's a smashing example of Palladian architecture and one of favourite spots in the city.