Granary Square, London - man in white shirt sitting on white bench
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Granary Square London

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant urban hub with a canal-side bookshop, free summer cinema, and stunning modern architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings (July-August)

Free open-air cinema screenings

CrowdHigh
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Granary Square, London - man in white shirt sitting on white bench

Granary Square London

Best Time

Summer evenings (July-August)

Free open-air cinema screenings

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban hub with a canal-side bookshop, free summer cinema, and stunning modern architecture.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Granary Square is a must-visit for its free summer cinema and unique bookshop barge!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Grab a Free Film Seat Early

Arrive well before sunset for the free open-air cinema to secure a good spot on the steps.

📚 Discover Bargain Books

Explore the unique 'Word on the Water' bookshop on the canal for literary treasures.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Everyman Screen on the Canal

Everyman Screen on the Canal

Granary Square Canal Steps

Enjoy free open-air movie screenings on a barge-turned-cinema. A perfect summer evening activity.

Word on the Water Bookshop

Word on the Water Bookshop

Granary Square Canal

Browse books on a charming 1920s Dutch barge. A unique literary gem by the water.

Granary Square Brasserie

Granary Square Brasserie

Granary Square

Savor delicious brasserie classics, with special menus offering great value.

King's Cross Light Tunnel

King's Cross Light Tunnel

King's Cross Station

Experience an immersive art installation with moving lights in a station underpass.

Planning Your Visit

Summer Evenings & Free Films

From July to mid-August, Granary Square hosts free open-air cinema screenings by the canal. Arrive early for the best spots on the steps, as they fill up quickly. It's a popular free event, so expect crowds, especially for well-known films.

Explore the King's Cross Hub

Granary Square is part of the vibrant King's Cross regeneration. Combine your visit with exploring Coal Drops Yard for unique shops and eateries, and don't miss the interactive light tunnel at King's Cross Station.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings (July-August)
Why
Free open-air cinema screenings
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good for lunch
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Enjoy the market buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

free open-air cinema is back on the canal! 🎥🌇 Everyman Screen on the Canal returns to King’s Cross with daily screenings from 1st July to 18th August. Check out the full programme on the @everymancin...
myperfectlondon
15.8K likes • 1.6M views

🎯 Grab a Free Film Seat Early

Arrive well before sunset for the free open-air cinema to secure a good spot on the steps. Instagram+1

📚 Discover Bargain Books

Explore the unique 'Word on the Water' bookshop on the canal for literary treasures. InstagramReddit

Here’s your ULTIMATE guide to spending a day out at King’s Cross! It’s one of the most vibrant parts of London and here’s 10 things to do while you’re here: 1. Brunch at @caravanrestaurants 🥞 2. Gran...
exploringlondon
10.3K likes • 872.4K views
London bookshop word on the water😍🤩 💡An independent bookshop on a 1920s Dutch barge situated in Granary Square, King’s Cross. 🏷Tag someone you want to go with 🎥 @avecjana 📍 @word_on_the_water #...
london.travelers
45.5K likes • 1.2M views

💰 Value Dining Options

Check out Granary Square Brasserie's 'Taste of History' menu for affordable two-course meals. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Canal Walk to Camden

Enjoy a scenic walk along the canal from Granary Square all the way to Camden Market. Reddit

London’s dreamy free open-air cinema is returning to King’s Cross this summer 🎥✨ Catch it from 30 June to 17 August. The perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends 🫶🏻 📍 Everyman on the Canal...
russogioacchino
8.8K likes • 444.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Grab a Free Film Seat Early

Arrive well before sunset for the free open-air cinema to secure a good spot on the steps. Instagram+1

📚 Discover Bargain Books

Explore the unique 'Word on the Water' bookshop on the canal for literary treasures. InstagramReddit

💰 Value Dining Options

Check out Granary Square Brasserie's 'Taste of History' menu for affordable two-course meals. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Canal Walk to Camden

Enjoy a scenic walk along the canal from Granary Square all the way to Camden Market. Reddit

💡 Interactive Station Art

Don't miss the captivating light tunnel at King's Cross Station for a unique photo op. Reddit

🍦 Best Gelato Nearby

Moreish Cafe Deli offers some of the best gelato in the neighborhood. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Granary Square's vibrant atmosphere, especially during summer with its free open-air cinema and charming canal-side bookshop. The area is praised for its modern regeneration, diverse dining options, and the captivating light tunnel at King's Cross Station. Some find the popular free events can get crowded, and dining prices can vary.

What People Like

Free open-air cinema
Charming bookshop barge
Modern urban regeneration

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Dining can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Granary Square is easily accessible via King's Cross Station, served by multiple Underground lines (Piccadilly, Victoria, Northern, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan) and National Rail services. From the station, follow signs for the Western Concourse and then head towards the canal. Reddit+1

On-site parking is limited and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport. The nearest major transport hub is King's Cross Station. Reddit

Yes, Granary Square is well-connected by footpaths. A popular and scenic route is the canal walk from Camden Market, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Reddit

Walking or cycling are the most cost-effective ways to reach Granary Square if you're coming from nearby areas. The free open-air cinema is also a major draw. Instagram+1

Yes, King's Cross Station offers luggage storage facilities, which can be convenient if you have a layover or early arrival before checking into your accommodation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Granary Square itself is a public space and is free to enter and explore. Reddit

The Everyman Screen on the Canal is typically free to attend, making it a very popular summer attraction. Booking in advance might be required for specific screenings. InstagramReddit+1

Granary Square is a public space and is generally accessible throughout the day and evening. Individual businesses within the square will have their own operating hours. Reddit

No, the 'Word on the Water' bookshop is a floating independent bookshop and is free to browse. You only pay for any books you wish to purchase. Instagram

The interactive light tunnel at King's Cross Station is a permanent art installation and is free to experience. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Granary Square offers a variety of activities, including free open-air cinema screenings in summer, browsing the 'Word on the Water' bookshop, enjoying food and drinks at various eateries, and relaxing by the canal. InstagramReddit+2

Absolutely! Granary Square provides excellent photo opportunities with its modern architecture, canal views, the 'Word on the Water' barge, and the interactive light tunnel at King's Cross Station. Reddit

The canal steps are a popular spot, especially during the summer cinema screenings. Many people also enjoy the artificial grass areas and reclined chairs that are often set up. Reddit

Historically, there have been street food markets behind Granary Square, offering diverse culinary options. It's worth checking local listings for current market schedules. Reddit

Granary Square is a modern development and generally offers good accessibility. Paved pathways and ramps should make it navigable for wheelchair users. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Granary Square and the adjacent Coal Drops Yard offer a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries and cafes to more upscale restaurants like Granary Square Brasserie, Dishoom, and Lina Stores. InstagramReddit+2

Yes, Granary Square Brasserie offers value with its 'Taste of History' menu. You can also find more budget-friendly options at nearby street food markets or casual cafes. InstagramReddit

You'll find a diverse range of cuisines, including British brasserie fare, Indian (Dishoom), Italian (Lina Stores), and various international options from street food vendors. InstagramReddit

Yes, Moreish Cafe Deli is highly recommended for its excellent gelato. There are also numerous cafes in the area offering quality coffee. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can purchase food from nearby vendors and enjoy it on the canal steps or grassy areas, weather permitting. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Key photo spots include the 'Word on the Water' book barge, the modern architecture of Coal Drops Yard, the canal reflections, and the interactive light tunnel at King's Cross Station. InstagramReddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. For the light tunnel, any time is good, but it can be more atmospheric when it's darker outside. Reddit

You can take photos, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash that might disrupt the screening. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of others. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the architecture and light tunnel. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Granary Square is a fantastic spot for families. The free open-air cinema in summer is a huge hit with children, offering a fun and accessible evening activity. Instagram+1 The interactive light tunnel at King's Cross Station is also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, providing a dazzling visual experience. Reddit

Consider a picnic lunch purchased from nearby vendors, or enjoy the diverse food options available. The canal path offers a pleasant walk, and the open spaces allow children to move around. The 'Word on the Water' bookshop can also be an engaging stop for young readers. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Granary Square is a haven for budget-conscious travelers. The Everyman Screen on the Canal offers free movie screenings throughout the summer, providing excellent entertainment at no cost. Instagram+2 Exploring the King's Cross light tunnel is also a free visual treat. Reddit

For affordable dining, look out for special menus like the Granary Square Brasserie's 'Taste of History' deal, or explore the street food options that are often available. Walking along the canal to Camden Market is a free and scenic activity. InstagramReddit

couples

Granary Square offers a romantic setting, especially during the summer months. Enjoy a free outdoor movie date at the Everyman Screen on the Canal, complete with the canal ambiance. Instagram+1 Alternatively, a stroll along the canal as the sun sets, perhaps with a stop at the charming 'Word on the Water' bookshop, makes for a delightful evening. Instagram+1

Consider dinner at one of the many restaurants in Coal Drops Yard or Granary Square Brasserie, followed by a walk through the illuminated King's Cross Station light tunnel for a touch of urban magic. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Everyman Screen on the Canal Experience

During the summer months, Granary Square transforms into a magical open-air cinema. The Everyman Screen on the Canal offers a fantastic lineup of free film screenings, often projected from a barge moored in the square. Visitors can relax on the tiered canal steps, which are often enhanced with comfortable seating and greenery, creating a unique amphitheater atmosphere. Instagram+2

It's advisable to arrive early, especially for popular films or weekend screenings, as the best spots fill up quickly. Bring a blanket or cushion for extra comfort. The event is incredibly popular with both locals and tourists, offering a memorable and budget-friendly way to enjoy a summer evening in London. Instagram+1

Beyond the films, the canal setting itself adds to the charm. The gentle lapping of water and the city lights create a picturesque backdrop, making it a perfect spot for a date night or a relaxed outing with friends. Check the Everyman Cinema schedule for specific film listings and timings. Instagram

Exploring the 'Word on the Water' Bookshop

Nestled on the Regent's Canal in Granary Square is the enchanting 'Word on the Water,' London's only bookshop on a 1920s Dutch barge. This independent gem offers a curated selection of new and secondhand books, from bestsellers to niche titles. Browsing the shelves aboard this historic vessel is a unique experience, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Instagram+1

Visitors often describe the bookshop as a 'hidden gem' and a 'charming' spot. It's a place where you can easily lose track of time, discovering literary treasures while enjoying the tranquil canal surroundings. The barge itself is a beautiful piece of history, adding to the overall ambiance. Instagram

'Word on the Water' is more than just a shop; it's a community hub that often hosts events, readings, and even live music. It's a must-visit for book lovers and anyone seeking a unique and memorable London experience. Remember to check their social media for any special events or opening times. Instagram

The King's Cross Regeneration and Coal Drops Yard

Granary Square is a key part of the extensive King's Cross regeneration project, transforming a former industrial area into a vibrant urban hub. Adjacent to Granary Square is Coal Drops Yard, a beautifully restored Victorian industrial site that now houses a collection of independent boutiques, designer stores, and acclaimed restaurants and bars. The architecture here is a striking blend of historic brickwork and modern design. InstagramReddit

Within King's Cross Station itself, don't miss the interactive light tunnel, an immersive art installation that uses motion-sensitive lights to create a dynamic and visually stunning passageway. It's a popular spot for photos and a testament to the area's focus on art and innovation. Reddit

This area offers a dynamic mix of culture, shopping, dining, and public art, making it a destination in its own right. It's a testament to successful urban renewal, providing a lively and engaging experience for visitors. Reddit

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