10 Best Things to do in Holborn (2026)
Looking for the best things to do in Holborn? Look no further! Here’s your ultimate guide to the neighbourhood — from a Londoner!
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Museums, galleries, public parks and even a glimpse of the impressive West End. That’s what you can find in Holborn, one of Central London’s busiest areas.
During your London wanders you’ll most likely pop through the neighbourhood, so why not explore it like a true local?
Here’s a list of the best and most fun things to do in Holborn, including everything from green spaces and cultural journeys to delicious food and drinks — from you guessed it, a Londoner!
10 Best Things to do in Holborn: The Ultimate Guide from a Local
P.S. – Explore London’s neighbourhoods to the fullest with our London Explorer Guides 🏡🇬🇧
TOP HOTEL IN HOLBORN
Looking to stay in the area? The best hotel in Holborn is The Hoxton. This 4 Star ⭐️ hotel is an elevated experience in London.
✔️ Striking coffee bar & all-day restaurant popular with locals
✔️ Rooms covered with wallpapers illustrated by local artists
✔️ Set in a Grade II-listed former telephone exchange
Holborn FAQ
How to Get to Holborn
Getting to Holborn is easy, as it’s extremely Central. For the most convenient option, you can use the Central Line in the Underground to get to Holborn Station.
➡️ What is Holborn famous for?
Holborn is famous for its rich historical and cultural scene, with cutting-edge galleries, outstanding museums and old architecture.
➡️ Is Holborn a good area to stay in London?
Of course! Holborn is a good area to stay in London, given its central location close to many iconic attractions. For the best option, pick this hotel.
➡️ Which part of London is Holborn?
Holborn is located in the central part of London, bordering the boroughs of Camden and the City of Westminster.
➡️ Is Holborn a good place to live?
Holborn is considered a good place to live in London because of its central location, historical charm, and access to thousands of business. However, it can be considered expensive.
➡️ Are there things to do in Holborn at night?
There are many things to do in Holborn at night! From dining in fancy restaurants to visiting some of the best bars in Central London. Keep reading to find more fun things to do in Holborn, regardless of the time!
1. Sir John Soane’s Museum
13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP
Sir John Soane’s Museum is the extraordinary home and museum of one of England’s greatest architects, who built and lived in it two centuries ago.
Sir John Soane was a collector of art, antiquities, and curiosities, so a visit to his house is not only shocking but important, as it’s considered to be a preserved slice of history.
Upon obtaining the property in 1792, he transformed the building into an extraordinary architectural masterpiece that served both as his residence and an art gallery. And the fact that you can visit it today (for free!) is something you can’t miss.
2. The Shaftesbury Theatre
210 Shaftesbury Ave, WC2H 8DP
What is a neighbourhood in Central London without a mention to a popular West End play? In the case of Holborn, that will probably happen in the well-known The Shaftesbury Theatre.
This is London’s largest independent theatre, usually home for the best local musical in the city. Like the widely popular & Juliet, which was there for years and is currently on tour. Other notable productions include include “Rent,” “Hairspray,” and “Motown: The Musical”.
Right now, it’s the home of Mrs Doubtfire the Musical. You can get tickets in their website or from popular sites like TodayTix and London Theatre Direct.
3. Leather Lane Market
75 Leather Ln, EC1N 7TJ
The Leather Lane Market in Holborn is a delicious street food hub dating back to the 17th century, nestled between Hatton Gardens and Chancery Lane.
It operates from Monday to Friday and specialises in providing a global gastronomic journey without leaving the neighbourhood. From the popular Mexican burritos and Greek souvlaki to authentic Italian pasta, traditional Caribbean dishes and other inventive fusions.
However, you can also find other items, like clothes, footwear, accessories and household goods. So you’ll always find it busy with activity from both locals and tourists alike.
4. Gray’s Inn Gardens
For something green and quiet, the Gray’s Inn Gardens, also known as “The Walks”, is a great option in Holborn.
It’s one of the largest privately owned gardens in London, adorned with gorgeous lawns, majestic mature trees and colourful flower beds. On top of that, it’s the location where Shakespeare’s troupe performed!
It’s primarily open to members of the Gray’s Inn, but the general public can enjoy it on weekdays from 12 to 2:30 p.m.
Don’t worry if you miss it, as you can also enjoy the historical Lincoln’s Inn Fields. It dates back to the 17th century and it’s still London’s largest public square, surrounded by stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings.
5. Hunterian Museum
The Royal College of Surgeons of England 38, 43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3PE
The Hunterian Museum is an amazing and different museum that most people miss when visiting London, where you can discover the art and science of surgery from ancient times to the present day.
It’s located within the Royal College of Surgeons in Holborn and it houses a fascinating collection of over 3,500 anatomical and pathological specimens, medical instruments, and other surgical historical items.
Some of the most impressive include an Irish elk skeleton and the skeleton of the 7’7″ “Irish giant” Charles Byrne. This is just an example on how impressed you’ll be with the world of medicine and the human body once you get here.
6. The Royal Courts of Justice
The Royal Courts of Justice is one of the most beautiful and illustrious buildings in Holborn and in London as a whole.
The majestic Gothic-style courts house was completed in 1882 — famous for its ornate carvings, grand arches, and impressive stonework.
When you go inside, you’ll be amazed with its sky-high ceilings and grand arches, as well as the extra long corridor (known as The Great Hall) and the massive library.
It’s a recognisable landmark in London, but also very important due to its integral function in the British legal system.
7. Charles Dickens Museum
48-49 Doughty St, WC1N 2LX
The Charles Dickens Museum is the only remaining residence of the famed Victorian novelist, and it’s a must visit in Holborn for every book lover.
Dickens lived in this Georgian terraced house from 1837 to 1839, during which he wrote the classic “Oliver Twist”. And visitors from all over the world have been able to explore it since 1925.
In this museum you’ll find impressive material related to the life and work of the author, including over 100,000 manuscripts, rare editions, personal items, and original furnishings.
8. The British Museum
Great Russell St, WC1B 3DG
While technically in Bloomsbury, The British Museum can be easily reached from Holborn, as it’s one of the closest tube stations.
This is arguably the most famous museum in London, as it has an extensive collection of over 8 million artefacts from all over the world and two million years of humanity. So, yes, this is the home to some of the most important treasures in the world.
The museum is free for everyone, and the permanent collection is big enough to spend more than 4 hours exploring. But I’d check their current exhibitions, as they’re usually really good, diverse and relevant.
9. Holborn Restaurants
Like I said before, Holborn is such an amazing place to eat in London, as it houses major restaurants that provide some of the best culinary experiences in the city. Here are some of my favourite.
Holborn Dining Room
This stylish British brasserie is famous for its impeccable service, elegant décor, and delicious menu. They have several experiences worth tucking into, like The Gin Bar (with a collection of over 500 Gins and 30 tonics) and The Pie Room (dedicated to one of Britain’s most iconic dishes).
Kintan Japanese BBQ
In this authentic restaurant, guests can enjoy traditional Japanese yakiniku at their tables, choosing from a variety of flavorsome meats and succulent vegetables. You’ll fall in love with their ambience, as they work extra hard to make sure everyone “can feel the warmth of Japanese hospitality”.
Hiba
This is a popular spot for authentic Lebanese and Palestinian cuisine, featuring an array of richly spiced dishes, from mezze to grilled specialties. It’s also family-owned, so you can rely on a cosy and warm environment, rather than the usual elegant scene in Holborn.
Isolabella
If you want a taste of Italy with a superb range of traditional dishes and an extensive wine list, this is the restaurant to pick in Holborn. It’s one of those sophisticated places that you wish you could enjoy every week.
Colonel Saab
This modern Indian restaurant elevates the extremely loved dishes by combining traditional recipes with contemporary culinary techniques, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is also gorgeous, combining classic elegance with exotic art.
10. Holborn Bars & Pubs
Holborn is home to a variety of traditional and historic pubs that offer a unique place to enjoy a drink, each of them standing out with character and history. Here are some of the oldest and most popular.
Cittie of Yorke
This historic pub located on High Holborn dates back to 1430 and is a Grade II listed public house that captures the essence of the most traditional pubs in London. Its medieval design and strict policy on music and electronic devices will allow you to experience the past while enjoying a pint.
Princess Louise
This is another stunning Grade II listed pub, famous for its ornate glass and mirror work, decorative tile, and a horseshoe-shaped bar. Their Victorian decorations seem untouched, and the pub classics are among the best in the area.
The Old Red Lion
A cosy and inviting pub known for its traditional décor and welcoming ambiance is another historic gem in Holborn. Though it was rebuilt to maintain its form of 1899, it’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy a pint or two, as well as taste traditional British pub food.
Map of the Best Things to Do in Holborn
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CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- 14 Best Things to Do in Bloomsbury: A Londoner’s Guide
- The Best Bloomsbury Cafes: A Local’s Coffee Shop Guide
- Where to Brunch in Bloomsbury: 5 Best Breakfast Spots
- The Best Things to Do in the City of London
- Holborn to Bloomsbury Walk: London Walk Series
Happy Londoning,
