Hays Galleria & City Hall London
Historic riverside galleria with a stunning glass roof, housing boutiques, eateries, and the iconic 'The Navigators' sculpture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hays Galleria & City Hall London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic riverside galleria with a stunning glass roof, housing boutiques, eateries, and the iconic 'The Navigators' sculpture.
"A beautiful riverside spot blending history, shopping, and leisure in one charming setting."
📸 Capture the Architecture
The glass roof and iron beams make for stunning photos. Visit during the day for natural light!
☕ Coffee Break at White Mulberries
Highly recommended for excellent coffee and pastries with a great view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Navigators Sculpture
Center of the Galleria
A striking mechanical artwork celebrating the site's maritime past. A must-see photo opportunity!
Riverside Views
Along the Thames promenade
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and The Shard. Perfect for a relaxing moment.
Historic Architecture
Throughout the Galleria
Marvel at the preserved industrial past with iron beams and a stunning glass roof. A photographer's delight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverside Charm
Historic Hub with Modern Flair
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Architecture
The glass roof and iron beams make for stunning photos. Visit during the day for natural light!
☕ Coffee Break at White Mulberries
Highly recommended for excellent coffee and pastries with a great view.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, there's something for every taste.
🚶♀️ Stroll Along the Thames
Enjoy the scenic walk with views of iconic landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Architecture
The glass roof and iron beams make for stunning photos. Visit during the day for natural light!
☕ Coffee Break at White Mulberries
Highly recommended for excellent coffee and pastries with a great view.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, there's something for every taste.
🚶♀️ Stroll Along the Thames
Enjoy the scenic walk with views of iconic landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
🎄 Festive Decorations
During Christmas, the galleria features a stunning tree, adding to the festive charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hay's Galleria is a highly-rated riverside destination in London, praised for its unique blend of historic industrial architecture and modern retail. Visitors love the stunning glass roof, the iconic 'The Navigators' sculpture, and the picturesque Thames views. It's considered a great spot for families, couples, and anyone seeking a relaxed atmosphere with diverse dining and shopping options.
"Hay’s Galleria is a beautiful riverside spot in London that blends history, shopping, and leisure in one charming setting. Once a historic dock where ships unloaded tea and spices, it has now been transformed into a covered arcade filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and market stalls. The glass-roofed structure gives it a unique character—bright, airy, and inviting, no matter the weather.
The highlight is the impressive fountain sculpture, “The Navigators,” which adds to the nautical theme and makes a perfect photo stop. Located right along the Thames, it’s also a lovely place for a walk, with great views of the river, Tower Bridge, and The Shard nearby. Whether you’re stopping for a meal, enjoying coffee by the water, or simply strolling through, Hay’s Galleria offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
A great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy riverside views, food, and a touch of London’s maritime history."
Zeeshan Qamar
"Nice spot by the river with a unique mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants. The architecture is stunning, especially the glass roof and open courtyard which make it a lovely place to walk through or stop for a coffee. Always something going on and a great atmosphere, perfect for relaxing, shopping, or just enjoying the views near London Bridge."
VIC
"A mixed-use building, such as apartments, office spaces, restaurants, shops, etc.
Close to London Bridge, Tower Bridge, and many other interesting places.
Sometimes they have events, such as London Sports Festival.
Great place to spend time with family, and friends."
Marta D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hay's Galleria is conveniently located near London Bridge. You can reach it via the London Underground (Jubilee and Northern lines to London Bridge station) or by bus. Many visitors also enjoy walking along the South Bank of the Thames to reach it.
Yes, it's very accessible. London Bridge station is a short walk away, serving multiple Tube lines and National Rail services. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby.
Driving in central London can be challenging due to traffic and parking. While there might be parking options nearby, using public transport is generally recommended for ease and convenience.
Approaching from the riverside offers the most iconic views. Consider walking from Tower Bridge or London Bridge for scenic photo opportunities along the Thames.
Absolutely! Hay's Galleria is a stone's throw from London Bridge, Tower Bridge, The Shard, and Borough Market, making it a great starting point for exploring the South Bank.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hay's Galleria itself is free. It's a public space with shops and restaurants, so you only pay for purchases or dining.
The galleria is generally open throughout the day, but individual shop and restaurant hours may vary. It's best to check the specific opening times for any establishments you plan to visit.
The 'The Navigators' sculpture is a central feature of the galleria and is free to view as part of your visit.
Yes, Hay's Galleria sometimes hosts events, markets, and festivals. It's worth checking local listings or their official website for any upcoming happenings.
The galleria is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available. The open layout makes it relatively easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of boutiques, gift shops, and service providers. It's a good spot for unique souvenirs or a quick browse.
Yes, there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from Italian to British pubs.
Visitors often recommend White Mulberries for coffee and pastries, and The Horniman at Hays for a pub experience. Cotti Cafe is also mentioned for sweet treats.
Definitely! With a range of dining options and a lively atmosphere, it's a great spot for families to enjoy a meal together.
While it's not a dedicated souvenir market, some of the boutiques and gift shops may offer unique items that make for great mementos of your London visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The 'The Navigators' sculpture is a central focus. Also, capture the stunning glass roof from below and the riverside views looking towards Tower Bridge and The Shard.
The galleria is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, atmospheric perspective. The surrounding riverside lights also add to the ambiance.
You get excellent views of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and The Shard from the riverside promenade.
Yes, the riverside location provides fantastic vantage points for capturing parts of London's iconic skyline, especially The Shard.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The transformation from a working wharf to a vibrant retail and leisure destination occurred in the 1980s. The galleria now houses a mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and even office spaces, all under its distinctive glass ceiling. This blend of old and new creates a unique atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience a piece of London's rich history.
At the heart of the galleria is 'The Navigators,' a large mechanical sculpture by David Kemp. This artwork pays homage to the area's seafaring heritage and serves as a focal point, adding a dynamic element to the space. It's a testament to how the area continues to celebrate its past while embracing its future.
Experiencing the Riverside Ambiance
The galleria is a popular spot for a coffee break or a meal with a view. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the waterfront, offering a chance to dine while watching boats glide by. The presence of street performers, like jazz musicians, often adds to the lively ambiance, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for visitors.
Whether you're looking for a quiet moment by the water or a lively spot to people-watch, Hay's Galleria delivers. It's a place where history meets modern London life, offering a picturesque setting for a memorable visit. The proximity to other attractions like Tower Bridge and The Shard makes it an ideal stop on any South Bank itinerary.
Culinary Delights at Hay's Galleria
For those seeking a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, cafes like White Mulberries are highly recommended for their excellent coffee and baked goods. Italian cuisine is also a highlight, with restaurants praised for their authentic pizzas and flavorful dishes. Pubs like The Horniman at Hays offer a classic British experience with a wide selection of drinks.
The convenience of having such a variety of eateries within the galleria, coupled with the charming riverside setting, makes dining here a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick snack or enjoying a full meal, the culinary offerings at Hay's Galleria are sure to impress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit