Hays Galleria & City Hall, London - Image 1
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Hays Galleria & City Hall London

4.4
·8k reviews·, United Kingdom

Historic riverside galleria with a stunning glass roof, housing boutiques, eateries, and the iconic 'The Navigators' sculpture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Hays Galleria & City Hall, London - Image 1

Hays Galleria & City Hall London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic riverside galleria with a stunning glass roof, housing boutiques, eateries, and the iconic 'The Navigators' sculpture.

4.4
(8k reviews)

"A beautiful riverside spot blending history, shopping, and leisure in one charming setting."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Navigators Sculpture

The Navigators Sculpture

Center of the Galleria

A striking mechanical artwork celebrating the site's maritime past. A must-see photo opportunity!

Riverside Views

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

Historic Architecture

Throughout the Galleria

Marvel at the preserved industrial past with iron beams and a stunning glass roof. A photographer's delight.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riverside Charm

Hay's Galleria offers a unique blend of historic architecture and modern retail. Arrive ready to explore its shops, cafes, and enjoy stunning Thames views. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate its ambiance without the crowds.

Historic Hub with Modern Flair

This former dockland warehouse is now a vibrant center. Its glass roof creates a bright, airy atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break. Be sure to check for any local events or markets happening during your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, river views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Lively atmosphere, markets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

خوش مكان ✅ #abdullah_zone10 #fyp #الكويت #london #uk #لندن
@abdullah_zone10
1.5K likes • 57.8K views

📸 Capture the Architecture

The glass roof and iron beams make for stunning photos. Visit during the day for natural light! TikTok

☕ Coffee Break at White Mulberries

Highly recommended for excellent coffee and pastries with a great view. Instagram

Christmas by the river. @haysontheriver #london #londoncity #centrallondon #londoner #londonlife #londonlifestyle #londontour #londontourguide #londontourism #londonbus #Londonbuses #londonbusride #londonwalkingtours #londonblacktaxi #londonexperiences #viral #cityoflondon #westendlondon #londonnightlife #fyp #trending #blackcab #blackcabs #walkinglondon #travellondon #travellondon2022 #travelen...
@experiencing.london
994 likes • 17.5K views
Hays Galleria, right across from London Bridge, is a great place to take a break. I especially recommend @whitemulberries for its excellent coffee and bakery varieties📌 #london #londonbridge #haysgalleria #travel #vlog #trend #reels
mensurdmr
0 likes • 2.1K views

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, there's something for every taste. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Along the Thames

Enjoy the scenic walk with views of iconic landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Instagram

The Horniman at Hays is back and better than ever after its recent remodel 👀 With brand new spaces and even more beer taps it’s definitely not a pub to miss in the heart of London 🍺 #remodel #londonpubs #haysgalleria #pubsoflondon #nicholsonspubs #newpub
nicholsonspubs
0 likes • 183K views

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! TikTok

☕ Coffee Break at White Mulberries

Highly recommended for excellent coffee and pastries with a great view. Instagram

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

From casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, there's something for every taste. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Along the Thames

Enjoy the scenic walk with views of iconic landmarks. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Instagram

🎄 Festive Decorations

During Christmas, the galleria features a stunning tree, adding to the festive charm. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(8k reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Riverside views
The Navigators sculpture

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Some find it touristy

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Approaching from the riverside offers the most iconic views. Consider walking from Tower Bridge or London Bridge for scenic photo opportunities along the Thames. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

The 'The Navigators' sculpture is a central feature of the galleria and is free to view as part of your visit. Reddit

Yes, Hay's Galleria sometimes hosts events, markets, and festivals. It's worth checking local listings or their official website for any upcoming happenings. Instagram

The galleria is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators available. The open layout makes it relatively easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ 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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from Italian to British pubs. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors often recommend White Mulberries for coffee and pastries,Instagram and The Horniman at Hays for a pub experience.Instagram Cotti Cafe is also mentioned for sweet treats. TikTok

Definitely! With a range of dining options and a lively atmosphere, it's a great spot for families to enjoy a meal together. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

The galleria is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, atmospheric perspective. The surrounding riverside lights also add to the ambiance. TikTok

You get excellent views of the River Thames, Tower Bridge, and The Shard from the riverside promenade. Instagram

Yes, the riverside location provides fantastic vantage points for capturing parts of London's iconic skyline, especially The Shard. Instagram

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, it's advisable to check with the management. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hay's Galleria is a fantastic spot for families. The open, covered space is easy to navigate with strollers, and the central fountain sculpture, 'The Navigators,' is often a hit with children. Reddit There are plenty of casual dining options, including cafes with kid-friendly snacks, making it easy to refuel during your outing. The riverside location also offers a pleasant environment for a family stroll. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Entry to Hay's Galleria is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. You can enjoy the architecture, riverside views, and the central sculpture without spending a penny. TikTok For affordable eats, look for cafes offering lunch deals or grab a coffee and pastry from places like Cotti Cafe TikTok or White Mulberries.Instagram Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help keep costs down.

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

With its unique glass roof, historic iron beams, and the striking 'The Navigators' sculpture, Hay's Galleria is a photographer's dream. TikTok The riverside location offers stunning views of Tower Bridge and The Shard, especially during the golden hour or at night when the city lights up. TikTokInstagram Look for interesting angles and play with the light filtering through the glass ceiling for truly captivating shots.

couples

Hay's Galleria provides a romantic setting for couples. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Thames, share a coffee at a riverside cafe, or indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants. Instagram The charming atmosphere and beautiful views create a perfect backdrop for a date or a relaxed afternoon together.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Hay's Galleria stands on the site of what was once a bustling hub of maritime activity. Originally part of Hay's Wharf, established in the late 17th century, this area was crucial for unloading goods like tea and spices. The current structure, a beautifully restored covered arcade, retains elements of its industrial past, such as the original iron beams and the impressive glass roof. This architectural preservation allows visitors to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

Experiencing the Riverside Ambiance

Hay's Galleria offers a delightful riverside experience, perfectly situated along the Thames. Its prime location near London Bridge provides easy access and stunning views of iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the river. The open-air feel, even within the covered galleria, makes it a pleasant place to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

Culinary Delights at Hay's Galleria

Hay's Galleria is a haven for food lovers, boasting a diverse array of dining options to suit every palate and occasion. From quick bites to leisurely multi-course meals, visitors are spoilt for choice. The galleria's restaurants and cafes are known for their quality and variety, making it a popular destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. TikTokInstagram

For those seeking a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, cafes like White Mulberries are highly recommended for their excellent coffee and baked goods. Instagram Italian cuisine is also a highlight, with restaurants praised for their authentic pizzas and flavorful dishes. Reddit Pubs like The Horniman at Hays offer a classic British experience with a wide selection of drinks. Instagram

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. Instagram