14 Best Things to Do in Bloomsbury: A Londoner’s Guide (2026)
Looking for the best things to do in Bloomsbury? Look no further. Here’s your ultimate guide to the neighbourhood — from a Londoner.
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Bloomsbury’s one of those London neighbourhoods that quietly pulls you in — full of bookish charm, leafy corners, and some seriously good food.
It’s right in the West End, so even if you don’t mean to end up here, you probably will. (it has a way of sneaking onto itineraries).
But now that it’s on your radar, let’s make the most of it. Here are the best things to do in Bloomsbury, London—from a Londoner.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
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🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
A Londoner’s Guide to Bloomsbury, London
P.S. – Explore London’s neighbourhoods to the fullest with our London Explorer Guides 🏡🇬🇧
How to Get to Bloomsbury
Bloomsbury is situated between Euston Road and Holborn, easily accessible via Russell Square, Euston, Tottenham Court Road
or Holborn tube station (via the Victoria, Central or Northern Line).
Another great option to reach Bloomsbury is by bus, including route 205, 390, 91, and 98.
However, if you’re already walking in Central London, I would highly recommend simply walking here and falling in love with the Georgian and Victorian townhouses on your way.
From Leicester Square, it would take around 19 minutes to get here (just make sure you download Citymapper beforehand).
1. The British Museum
GREAT RUSSELL STREET, WC1B 3DG
It doesn’t get much more iconic than the British Museum — one of the oldest museums in the world and a must-visit if it’s your first time in London.
Inside, you’ll find over eight million objects telling the story of human history — from ancient tools to Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone.
That said, it’s not without controversy. A lot of the collection was acquired during Britain’s colonial era, and the museum now includes notes and context around how some of the pieces got here. Definitely worth reading as you go.
Oh — and the building itself? Stunning. The Great Court is one of the most photographed spots in London, and it’s easy to see why.
And lucky you, entry is completely free.
2. Russell Square
WC1B 5EH
Need a break while wandering Bloomsbury? Say hello to Russell Square.
It’s one of the largest green spaces in the area, with wide paths, old trees, and plenty of benches — perfect for a quiet moment between museum hopping and exploring.
The square dates back to the early 1800s and still reflects a lot of its original Georgian layout. (It’s named after the Russell family — aka the Dukes of Bedford — who once owned much of the land around here.)
There’s a little park café tucked in the corner if you fancy a coffee and snack, and fun fact: they filmed a scene from Sherlock here too.
3. Shop at The Brunswick Centre
UNIT 57, BERNARD STREET, WC1N 1BS
The Brunswick Centre is one of those places people often skip in Bloomsbury — but they really shouldn’t.
It’s a bit of a hidden gem, with bold 1960s architecture that’s now Grade II listed (so officially recognised as worth preserving — and you’ll see why when you’re standing in it).
But what makes it worth the stop is the vibe. There’s a mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and even an arthouse cinema — all wrapped around an open square that’s ideal for taking a breather mid-wander.
A lovely shout in Bloomsbury if you’re after something a little less tourist-trodden.
4. Foundling Museum
40 BRUNSWICK SQUARE, WC1N 1AZ
Tucked just behind Brunswick Square, The Foundling Museum is one of Bloomsbury’s most moving cultural stops.
It tells the story of the Foundling Hospital — the UK’s first home for abandoned children — and how artists have supported its mission for over 275 years.
The collection is small but powerful. You’ll see everything from original tokens left by mothers to 18th-century portraits and letters that bring the history to life.
They also run rotating exhibitions, talks, and concerts — so it’s worth checking what’s on when you visit.
5. Wellcome Collection
183 EUSTON ROAD, NW1 2BE
Right on Euston Road, the Wellcome Collection is one of Bloomsbury’s most thought-provoking (and free!) museums.
It mixes science, art, history, and medicine in a way that really gets you thinking about how we understand health — past and present.
A lot of the collection comes from Sir Henry Wellcome, a pharmacist and collector who spent his life gathering medical objects and curiosities from around the world.
Alongside you’ll also find contemporary exhibitions and experimental artworks exploring everything from the body to belief systems.
P.S. – Don’t skip the rare books and manuscripts here — they’re tucked away upstairs and absolutely worth a peek.
6. The Horse Hospital
COLONNADE, WC1N 1JD
Don’t let the name fool you — The Horse Hospital isn’t veterinary, but one of Bloomsbury’s most unique independent arts venues.
The name comes from its past life as a Victorian-era stable for injured cab horses. But once the horse-drawn days ended, the space found new life — now hosting everything from underground art exhibitions to experimental film screenings.
Expect a mix of moving image, performance, digital art, and all things avant-garde. They also run talks, book launches, gigs, fashion nights — you name it.
7. Bloomsbury Square Garden
14 BLOOMSBURY SQUARE, WC1A 2RJ
Bloomsbury Square Garden is one of the oldest green spaces in London — and it still feels like a quiet pocket of history.
Originally laid out in the 1660s as the private garden for Southampton House, it opened to the public in the 1950s.
Today, you’ll still find Georgian townhouses lining the square and a classic garden layout: neat paths, tall trees, and plenty of space to pause.
There’s a statue of 18th-century politician Charles James Fox, a couple of outdoor table tennis spots, and lots of benches to just sit and take it all in.
If you’re here in spring or autumn, look up — London’s trees really show off here.
8. Afternoon Tea at the Bedford Hotel
83-95 SOUTHAMPTON ROW, WC1B 4HD
Afternoon tea in London is a must — and if you’re in Bloomsbury, The Bedford Hotel is a lovely place to do it.
Served in their cosy lounge or out on the patio when the sun’s out, it’s a quiet little treat in the middle of the city.
You’ll start with delicate finger sandwiches, move on to warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and finish with a rotation of seasonal cakes and pastries.
There’s a full tea menu too — from English Breakfast to more aromatic blends — and yes, you can add a glass of champagne if you fancy.
Just make sure you book ahead — it’s a popular one.
9. London Cabaret Club
VICTORIA HOUSE, BLOOMSBURY SQUARE, WC1B 4DA
If you’re after something a bit different for your night out, The London Cabaret Club brings full-on spectacle to Bloomsbury.
Their shows blend classic cabaret with British themes — think pop icons, rock legends, even James Bond — all wrapped in big choreography, bold costumes, and proper West End-level performances.
It’s more than a night of entertainment too — there’s a gourmet dinner menu served alongside the show if you’re up for the full experience.
Not your average cabaret — and all the more fun for it.
10. Skoobs Books, Judd Books, and The London Review Bookshop
With its literary roots and nearby universities like UCL and Birkbeck, it’s no wonder Bloomsbury is packed with brilliant bookshops.
Skoob Books, tucked beneath The Brunswick, it’s one of London’s best secondhand bookshops. A maze — in the best way — with over 50,000 titles covering everything from academic reads to classic lit.
A short walk away on Marchmont Street, you’ll find Judd Books — another go-to for secondhand gems, especially if you’re after academic or scholarly titles. Expect shelves stacked high and lots of browsing students.
And if you’re after something a little more curated, The London Review Bookshop is a dream for serious readers. Two floors of handpicked titles, literary gifts, and even a little cake shop inside — perfect for pairing a browse with something sweet.
11. Bloomsbury Cafes
Bloomsbury might be best known for its museums and literary roots, but I’ll have you know it’s also home to some of the cosiest cafés in Central London — ideal for a quick pause before a gallery visit or a proper sit-down with your book. Here are a few of my favourites:
The Penny Drop
Originally from Melbourne, this airy Aussie-style café has found a second home in Bloomsbury. Think smooth flat whites, oat lattes, and minimalist interiors with big windows — perfect if you need a quick caffeine fix or a bright corner to reset between stops (popular with students and London’s 9-5ers!)
Lever & Bloom Coffee
This compact coffee cart has built a loyal following thanks to its locally roasted beans and consistently great espresso-based drinks. You’ll spot it tucked under the trees just off Gordon Square — ideal if you’re leaving UCL, Birkbeck or SOAS and fancy a top-tier latte to go. They also stock pastries from local bakeries and sometimes serve canelés, which are rare to come by.
Store Street Espresso
One of the area’s most reliable indie coffee spots — and a bit of a Bloomsbury staple. They use Square Mile beans, do a solid brunch menu (the avo toast with beetroot hummus is worth a try), and the vibes are very much laptop-friendly if you’re trying to squeeze in some work or reading. They’ve also got a second location inside The British Library, if you’re heading that way.
Read More: The Best Bloomsbury Cafes: A Local’s Coffee Shop Guide
12. Bloomsbury Brunch
Bloomsbury has no shortage of good eats, especially when it comes to brunch. Here are a few go-to spots worth bookmarking:
Riding House Bloomsbury
Just a few steps from The Brunswick and tucked inside The Kimpton Fitzroy, this offshoot of the Soho favourite brings the same bold interiors — lush greenery, comfy booths, and natural light for days.
The brunch menu leans modern British with global twists: buttermilk pancakes with vanilla cream, a shrimp burger with chilli mayo, and their signature house brunch with chorizo and fried eggs. Plenty of veggie and vegan options too.
Dalloway Terrace
If you’re after a more polished brunch setting, Dalloway Terrace is the one. Hidden behind The Bloomsbury Hotel, the floral-covered terrace changes with the seasons — and it’s just as popular for the vibe as the food.
Brunch here feels like a proper affair: think oak-smoked salmon bagels, truffle fries, and syrupy waffles, paired with tea, coffee or champagne if you’re leaning indulgent. Perfect for birthdays, reunions, or just treating yourself midweek.
Fancy some more brunch finds?
Read More: Where to Brunch in Bloomsbury: 5 Best Breakfast Spots
13. Bloomsbury Bars
As one of London’s most culturally packed neighbourhoods, Bloomsbury also has tons of bars for a post-museum wind down or celebratory drink.
The Bloomsbury Club
Tucked behind The Bloomsbury Hotel, this dimly lit cocktail bar is inspired by the literary rebels of the Bloomsbury Set — think Virginia Woolf, E.M. Forster, and Lytton Strachey.
Fitz’s Bar
Inside The Kimpton Fitzroy, Fitz’s Bar feels like you’ve stepped straight into the Roaring Twenties. Think velvet armchairs, cut-glass chandeliers, and a feathered lampshade or two.
Flight Club Bloomsbury
For a fun and lively atmosphere, Flight Club is fab for high-tech social darts (you’ll have to try it for yourself).
While it’s not strictly Bloomsbury-by-postcode, it’s a fun and easy 5-minute walk from Russell Square or Tottenham Court Road. A good pick if you’re with friends in Bloomsbury and want something more energetic than a sit-down spot.
14. Bloomsbury Pubs
Bloomsbury is one of those areas where you can still breathe London’s history. And one of the best places to do it is a pub! Here are some of the most traditional.
The Bloomsbury Tavern
Dating back to 1856, this Victorian-era pub is hard to miss with its curved corner frontage and ornate brickwork. Once a stop along the route to public hangings at Marble Arch (grim, I know), it now pours pints in a much…friendlier setting.
Museum Tavern
This one’s just across the street from the British Museum and has been serving locals, scholars, and curious tourists since 1723. Originally named The Dog and Duck, it changed its title when the museum opened in the 18th century. You’ll still spot original Victorian fittings inside — etched mirrors, dark wood panelling, and even gas lamps. Charles Dickens was a regular here.
Lord John Russell
Named after Lord John Russell, 19th-century British PM and member of the family that developed much of Bloomsbury, this pub feels like a proper local — especially on weekday evenings. Big windows, booths, football on the telly, and a menu that leans more hearty than fancy (burgers, pies, Sunday roasts).
Map of A Londoner’s Guide to Bloomsbury
Thanks for reading my Things to Do in Bloomsbury Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- Where to Brunch in Bloomsbury: 5 Best Breakfast Spots
- The Best Bloomsbury Cafes: A Local’s Coffee Shop Guide
- The Best Things to Do in Holborn
- The Best Things to Do in Soho, London
- Holborn to Bloomsbury Walk: London Walk Series (Episode #4)
- 34+ BEST Things to Do in King’s Cross (from a Londoner)
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
