King’s Cross is one of North London’s most exciting and evolving areas, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modern development. Once known for its industrial roots, it’s now a buzzing hub with something for everyone, including cool pubs, great brunch spots and live music venues.
Whether you're looking to shop at world-class retailers, discover cutting-edge art at galleries, or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the canals, this area has it all. With iconic landmarks like St. Pancras International, Granary Square, and let's not forget Platform 9¾, you'll never be short of things to do in London's King's Cross.
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Things To Do Near King's Cross
1. Play Some Games At Shuffleboard Bar London
- Where: 37 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9SE
Looking for a night packed with good food, fun games, and a touch of friendly rivalry? Shuffleboard Bar London is the place to be. Whether you’re a shuffleboard pro or a first-timer, you’ll love the chance to play on their championship-sized tables while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere filled with street art, including graffiti by local London artists. The bar’s quirky touches - like a double-decker bus turned DJ booth - add to the charm of this fun-filled venue.
After you've shown off your shuffleboard skills, head to the arcade for some classic games, or rack up the balls on the pool table. Catch live sports, sip on delicious drinks, and snack on mouth-watering food - think pizzas, fish and chips, apple pie and more.
Get your shuffle on and enjoy some tasty food in the process.
2. Enjoy An Afternoon Tea At RAILS Restaurant & Littler Bar
- Where: Great Northern Hotel, King’s Cross St Pancras International Station, Pancras Road, N1C 4TB
Afternoon tea at RAILS Restaurant & Little Bar is a delightful journey for your taste buds, set in the heart of King's Cross. Housed in a beautiful Grade II-listed hotel, the first-floor restaurant offers a stylish blend of vintage Victorian charm and modern elegance, with touches of Parisian café chic to set the mood. As you settle into this relaxed and inviting spot, prepare for a delectable tour of the UK’s regional delights.
From Yorkshire parkin to cranachan choux buns, Scotland’s sweet offerings are on full display, alongside London’s famous Victoria Cupcake and a hearty Scouse pie from Liverpool. Every bite takes you on a flavour-filled adventure, perfectly paired with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and jam. Add a pot of your chosen tea, and you’ve got the ultimate indulgent afternoon treat.
On the hunt for things to do around King's Cross? How about a posh and pretty cuppa?
3. Discover The Best Restaurants In King's Cross
When you're out and about, there's nothing worse than when hunger pains strike and you have no idea where to satiate your cravings, be it crispy tacos or juicy burgers. Fortunately, King's Cross is a haven for restaurants, boasting an array of top-tier choices that'll make a meal memorable.
- Best for schnitzel and beer: German Gymnasium
- Best for tapas: Camino
- Best for Indian food: Dishoom
- Best for pizza: Happy Face
- Best for sharing plates: Coal Office
- Best for pasta: Lina Stores
Devour bratwurst in a Grade II-listed building.
4. Quench Your Thirst With The Best Bars In King's Cross
King's Cross is blessed with a large selection of drinking dens, perfect for every occasion. Whether you're looking for a laid-back pint and some pretty canal views, or a sleek bar which takes its audio seriously, this spot has got it all.
- Best for audiophiles: Spiritland
- Best for pretty views: The Lighterman
- Best for slinky cocktails: SUPERMAX
- Best for quirky interiors: Gothic Bar
- Best for a glass of wine: Porte Noire (owned by Idris Elba, no less)
- Best for a rooftop: The Big Chill
- Best for craft beer: Campfire (closed throughout winter)
King's Cross is a great place to drink all-year-round.
5. Belt Out Hits With Karaoke At Star Of Kings
- Where: 126, York Way, N1 0AX
On the lookout for things to do near King's Cross St Pancras Station and ready to unleash your inner diva? Star of Kings is your go-to thanks to its fun karaoke room. This classic pub, with its cosy ambience and rich heritage in music and entertainment, is the perfect spot for a night out filled with laughs, tunes, and plenty of drinks.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, their private karaoke room comes equipped with a state-of-the-art Lucky Voice sing station, boasting over 10,000 songs and two radio mics to help you hit those high notes (or, you know, have a blast trying). Bring your mates and belt out your favourite hits in total privacy - no judgment, just fun. When you're not belting out tunes, grab a bite from their delicious food menu or enjoy a cold one on the beer terrace if it’s sunny.
All together now: since you been gone...
6. Sip Champagne Overlooking The Station At St Pancras Bar And Brasserie
- Where: St Pancras International Upper Concourse, Euston Road, N1C 4QL
Step into the glamour and charm of St Pancras Bar And Brasserie, where history, art, and elegance collide in a stunning setting. Nestled beneath the iconic 'I Want My Time With You' neon by Tracey Emin, this brasserie is the epitome of 1920s Art Deco style. From the rich wood panelling and brass fixtures to the vintage station clock, the décor oozes old-world charm with a modern twist.
Inspired by the grand railway station restaurants of Paris, the menu is a French-inspired feast for the senses. Think rich escargot de Bourgogne in garlic and parsley butter, and warming French onion soup with Gruyère croutons. With a backdrop as stunning as the food, you’ll find yourself immersed in the station’s architectural beauty while sipping bubbly from the Press for Champagne table-side button - no need to leave your seat to indulge in luxury.
Featuring Searcys English sparkling wine and more, this bar is a great place for a scenic sip.
7. Read 'Til Late At The Standard
- Where: 10 Argyle Street, WC1H 8EG
Located in the heart of King's Cross, The Standard is an exciting destination offering an urban oasis amid London’s buzzing cultural hub. Inside, the hotel’s unique, brutalist architecture meets an atmosphere full of energy and fun - The Library Lounge is a particular favourite as you can bring a book and read 'til late, cocktail in hand, thanks to its 12am and 2am closing times.
Plus, with 266 distinctive rooms and a dog-friendly vibe, it’s the ultimate place to rest, play, and soak up the city’s magic. Hungry? There's a range of eateries including Decimo, a modern Spanish restaurant, the Double Standard bar, and Isla - a seasonal restaurant that captures the best of fresh, local ingredients.
The Library Lounge is open until 2am Thursday to Saturday, and 12am Sunday to Wednesday.
8. Brunch At Mare Street Market
- Where: Unit 1 P2, 2-8 Lewis Cubitt Square, N1C 4DY
Mare Street Market in King's Cross is the kind of place that effortlessly blends laid-back charm with seriously good food. With independent residents like Voices Radio and The Great Frog alongside its open kitchen and all-day menu, it’s the ideal spot to settle in with a coffee, catch up with friends, or get some work done while soaking up the lively market atmosphere.
And when it comes to brunch? This place does it right. Think golden waffles drenched in maple syrup, indulgent Mexican breakfast burritos packed with chorizo and chipotle, and picture-perfect smashed avocado on sourdough with crispy chickpeas and Aleppo chilli. And if you're not quite ready to leave when brunch winds down at 4:30pm, you can stick around for wood-fired pizzas and a cocktail or two at the bar.
Enjoy multi-coloured chandeliers and an array of pop-ups here.
9. Immerse Yourself In Art At Lightroom
- Where: 12 Lewis Cubitt Square, N1C 4DY
As far as quirky things to see and do around King's Cross go, Lightroom is a great one. This cutting-edge venue collaborates with some of the biggest names across art, music, fashion, film, and science to create spectacular, larger-than-life shows that go beyond simple projections.
Whether it’s painting the world with David Hockney, soaring into space with Tom Hanks, or stepping onto the catwalk with Vogue, Lightroom transforms how audiences engage with creativity. Conveniently located just a ten-minute walk from King’s Cross Station and right next to the lively bars and restaurants of Coal Drops Yard, a visit to Lightroom has to be on the cards when you're in the area. For more exhibitions in London, check out our guide.
See works like never before at the home of artist-led storytelling.
10. 'Head To Hogwarts' Via Platform 9¾
- Where: King's Cross Station, N1 9AP
For Harry Potter fans, Platform 9¾ is a must-see when you're at King's Cross Station. Venture over to the luggage trolley embedded in the brick wall and snap a photo of you on your way to Hogwarts, ready to be sorted into Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff or Slytherin. It doesn't cost at all to have your photo taken yourself, but there's a professional photographer on hand between 9am and 9pm should you fancy getting a high-quality souvenir.
If you want to go that extra step further, head to the Harry Potter Shop next door (where photos can be purchased after) and buy yourself some robes, a wand and perhaps even a scarf to complete the first (or fifth) year look. The shop itself is styled to look like Ollivander's wand emporium, and you can discover time turners and Horcruxes there too.
Free things to do near King's Cross? Get a picture of where it all began for Harry, Ron and Hermoine.
11. Do Some Shopping Around Coal Drops Yard
- Where: Stable Street, N1C 4LW
Once a gritty industrial hub, Coal Drops Yard has transformed into one of London’s most exciting destinations for shopping, dining, and culture. Originally built in the 1850s to receive coal from the North of England, this Victorian-era goods yard has been reimagined into a stunning, design-forward space that blends history with modern creativity.
Independent boutiques rub shoulders with high-end brands, offering everything from contemporary homeware at Tom Dixon to sustainable fashion at COS. The dining scene is just as impressive, with top-notch restaurants and bars like Barrafina, BAO, and Parrillan, where you can sip wine and enjoy small plates on a terrace overlooking Regent’s Canal. But it’s not just about shopping and eating - there’s always something happening. Think art installations, pop-up events, live music, and even a bit of alfresco cinema when the weather plays nice.
Coal Drops Yard's regeneration project was led by architect Thomas Heatherwick.
12. Brush Up On LGBTQ+ History At Queer Britain
- Where: 2 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
Tucked away in the heart of King’s Cross, Queer Britain is the UK’s first dedicated LGBTQ+ museum - an essential stop for anyone interested in queer history, culture, and creativity. Opened in 2022, this groundbreaking space celebrates the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community through powerful exhibitions, personal artefacts, and dynamic events.
Housed in a gorgeous old industrial building, it's an inclusive space where visitors can explore everything from the fight for LGBTQ+ rights to the evolution of queer fashion, art, and activism. Whether you’re an ally, part of the community, or just curious to learn more, Queer Britain offers an inspiring and eye-opening experience. Plus, it’s completely free to visit.
One of the most exciting and insightful free things to do near King's Cross St Pancras Station.
13. Watch A Gig At A Live Music Venue
- Where: Scala, The Lexington and Lafayette
If you fancy a gig, King's Cross is far from short of legendary venues. Once a grand cinema and even a brief stint as a controversial adult movie theatre, Scala has reinvented itself as one of London’s most iconic live music venues; this legendary spot has hosted everyone from Coldplay and Foo Fighters to Ed Sheeran and Charli XCX.
Further up the road, you'll find a gem of a venue sitting between King’s Cross and Angel. The Lexington is a haven for music lovers, whiskey enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a great night out. Upstairs, its intimate gig space is famed for showcasing the best in indie, alternative, and Americana music. Finally, tucked away in Goods Way, Lafayette brings an incredible sound system, stylish interiors, and an eclectic lineup of artists spanning everything from indie and R&B to jazz and electronic.
Searching for things to do in King's Cross at night? Lafayette is a 600-capacity that can help.
14. Explore The British Library
- Where: 96 Euston Road, NW1 2DB
Perched behind the grand façade of King’s Cross St Pancras stands the British Library, home to over 170 million items spanning centuries, cultures, and continents. Whether you’re a history buff, a book lover, or just in need of a quiet retreat, this place is an absolute must-visit. Step inside, and you’ll find some of the most precious manuscripts in the world - think Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and even the Magna Carta.
And if music is more your thing? There are handwritten Beatles lyrics on display too. Beyond the books, the British Library is packed with surprises. From free exhibitions showcasing rare literary gems to thought-provoking talks and live performances, there’s always something happening. Need a break? The terrace café is a top spot for people-watching with a coffee in hand, while the King’s Library Tower - a glass-walled collection of George III’s books - stands as a breathtaking centrepiece.
While you can't take the books home, you can use its Reading Rooms.
15. Head Through The King's Cross Light Tunnel
- Where: King's Cross, N1C 4AG
We admit it, we love a photo opportunity as much as the next person and The King's Cross Light Tunnel certainly provides that. Often dubbed the 'Rainbow Tunnel', it's an immersive experience of colour and movement. Stretching 90 metres from St Pancras International and King’s Cross stations towards Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard, this glowing walkway isn’t just a practical route - it’s a dynamic, ever-changing canvas.
The tunnel’s LED ‘art wall’ features 190 vertical light pixels encased in toughened glass, creating an eye-catching display that shifts with artistic commissions and special events. More than just a pretty backdrop, the tunnel has been used as a runway for London Fashion Week, a hub for AI festival CogX, and even a yoga studio bathed in soothing light.
The tunnel was designed by Allies and Morrison Architects, Speirs Major, and The Light Lab.
16. Get Cultured In Granary Square
- Where: 1 Granary Square, N1C 4AA
Right in the heart of King’s Cross is Granary Square; once a Victorian-era canal basin where barges unloaded their goods, this stunning public space has been transformed into a lively hub of fountains, food, and fun - perfect for a laid-back day out. The star of the show? Over 1,000 choreographed fountains that dance, shimmer, and light up as the day goes on. And by night, the illuminated display is nothing short of magical.
Foodies will love the surrounding top-tier restaurants, from the ever-popular Caravan to the much-loved Granary Square Brasserie. Beyond eating and drinking, it’s home to Central Saint Martins, where you might spot the next big thing in fashion or art, and the square itself hosts everything from open-air film screenings and family festivals to fashion shows and art installations.
For things to do near King's Cross with kids, take them to Granary Square's fountains.
17. Browse Books On A Boat At Word On The Water
- Where: Regent's Canal Towpath, N1C 4LW
Book lovers, rejoice, we've got a treat for you. Nestled on Regent’s Canal lies one of London’s most charming hidden gems - Word on the Water, a 100-year-old Dutch barge turned floating bookshop. Step aboard, and you’ll find shelves stacked high with new and secondhand treasures, from cult classics and contemporary fiction to beautifully illustrated children’s books.
Whether you’re on the hunt for your next great read or just looking to soak up the cosy atmosphere by the wood-burning stove, this is the perfect literary escape. The barge’s rooftop doubles as a stage, hosting live music, open mic nights, poetry slams, and thought-provoking talks on art, technology, and politics. With its quirky charm, solar-powered sound system, and ever-changing lineup of events and readings, this floating paradise is a must-visit for bookworms.
Word On The Water is open every day, except for Christmas.
18. Get Competitive At Electric Shuffle
- Where: 1 Lewis Cubbit Park, N1C 4EJ
Looking for a quirky activity bar to get competitive at with your friends? Then head to Electric Shuffle near Coal Drops Yard, where you can play an interactive game of shuffleboard with up to 16 people at a time. Their high-tech system adds up your scores for you, and there are a range of unique, multiplayer games to choose from.
The sleek venue is filled with retro glamour and art deco-inspired interiors, as well as cosy seating areas. The bar is whipping up a variety of creative signature cocktails, which you can enjoy alongside sharing pizzas and tasty small plates. Plus, they host boozy brunches on weekends, promising an hour of gaming, unlimited pizza and a whole bottle of prosecco or four beers each.
This quirky activity bar is a great choice of competitive things to do in King's Cross.
19. Devour Street Food From Canopy Market
- Where: West Handyside Canopy, N1C 4BH
Hungry? We thought so. Stroll over to Canopy Market, the buzzy market just off Granary Square, where artisan traders, independent makers, and foodies unite every Friday to Sunday. Here, you’ll find delicious street food, farm-fresh produce, award-winning cheeses, craft beer, and exquisite desserts - all from some of London’s best small producers. But it’s not just about the food; there’s also a stylish selection of handmade jewellery, ceramics, accessories, and homewares, perfect for picking up something unique.
With live music, craft drink stalls, and a regularly rotating lineup of traders (such as Bread Ahead, Holy Sugar and Churros Garcia to name a few), every visit brings something new. Plus, special feature weekends - think botanical markets, craft fairs, and chocolate extravaganzas - mean there’s always a fresh reason to return. And if you love art, keep an eye out for Canopy Exhibitions, which transform the market into a pop-up gallery, showcasing work from a community of talented artists.
Find your new favourite street food here or pick up some unique gifts.
Looking for more things to do in the area? Check out our guide to the best Sunday roasts in King's Cross.
