Dates & times
Saturday 13 September 2025 – 10:00am to 4:00pm
Sunday 14 September 2025 – 10:00am to 4:00pm
Venue: City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, Royal Docks, London, E16 1ZE
Cost: Free (no tickets needed – just turn up!)
Step inside London’s City Hall
Ever wondered what goes on inside City Hall – the home of the Mayor of London and the London Assembly? This September, you’ll get the chance.
As part of Open House London 2025, City Hall will open its doors to the public. It’s a special year too – the Greater London Authority is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marked by a dedicated exhibition you can explore during your visit.
Entry is free, and it’s first come, first served– so no booking required.
A Building with a story
The building itself has quite a history. Originally known as The Crystal, it was commissioned by Siemens and designed by Wilkinson Eyre. It first opened in 2012 as an exhibition centre and think tank.
In 2022, it was given new life as London’s City Hall, placing local democracy right in the heart of East London’s Royal Docks – an area known for innovation, regeneration, and its status as a Green Enterprise District. It’s also right next to the IFS Cloud Cable Car across the Thames, so you can enjoy some great views during your visit.
Inside City Hall
City Hall isn’t just about politics – it’s designed to be welcoming and open to everyone.
Committee Rooms & London Living Room (LLR): These spaces were created to make civic life feel more approachable. You can even catch glimpses of meetings from outside or on the large LED screen that spans multiple rooms.
Porch Spaces: Not quite ready to step into a meeting? You can observe from the thresholds, easing into the process at your own pace.
Design & Atmosphere: Expect warm, natural materials like timber, brass, and soft lighting – all chosen to make the space feel inviting, comfortable, and inspiring.
The Chamber: The heart of City Hall, with its soaring triple-height ceilings, pendant lighting, and open views, creating a space that feels both grand and welcoming.
The Royal Docks – more than just a backdrop
City Hall’s setting is special in itself. The Royal Docks are not only a hub for regeneration and community activity but also an important natural habitat. The open water here is a haven for wildfowl and part of London’s conservation areas.
There’s plenty to see around the docks too – from water activities near City Hall to the Floating Habitat project further up by ExCeL, which is testing new ways to bring nature and people together.
Whether you’re interested in London’s politics, its architecture, or just fancy exploring one of the city’s most unique buildings, London Open House 2025 at City Hall is the perfect opportunity.
Find out more at the Open House website.