Cleopatra’s Needle

The basics

While most visitors to London head to institutions like the British Museum to view ancient Egyptian marvels, Cleopatra’s Needle is hidden in plain sight, right in the center of town. Standing some 69 feet (21 meters) high and inscribed with ornate hieroglyphics that tell of pharaohs’ military feats, the ancient marvel has delighted locals and visitors since its installation in the Victorian era.

The monument’s accessible location makes viewing it easy as part of an independent day out in Central London. You can also admire it on London bike tours, hop-on-hop-off bus tours, river walks, and boat tours along the Thames.

Things to know before you go

• The base of Cleopatra’s Needle was damaged by shrapnel from a bombing in World War I—look for it when you get close to the landmark.

• Cleopatra’s Needle is free and accessible for all to visit and admire.

• The Victoria Embankment has wide, flat pavements that are accessible for wheelchairs.

How to get there

Cleopatra’s Needle is located between Waterloo Bridge and the Golden Jubilee Bridge on the Victoria Embankment in Central London. It is a few minutes on foot from Embankment Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines) and Temple Station (Circle and District lines). It’s across from the Embankment Pier, and several ferry and water taxi services serve it. Numerous bus lines, as well as taxis and rideshare services, frequent the area.

When to get there

Cleopatra’s Needle can be viewed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, the best time to visit is in daylight hours, so you can get close to the monument and admire its details. There is little coverage near the obelisk, so bring sun protection if you’re visiting on a warm day or an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Highlights of the Victoria Embankment

Strolling along the Thames is a London must—it’s also a great way to discover monuments and attractions many overlook. In addition to Cleopatra’s Needle, other highlights worth seeking out include the tranquil Victoria Embankment Gardens, Somerset House (a Neoclassical complex turned into a vast cultural center), and commemorative landmarks, including the Battle of Britain monument.

Ways to explore

While many visitors head to London’s major museums to see ancient Egyptian treasures, Cleopatra’s Needle is hidden in plain sight, not far from Charing Cross station. This 3,500-year-old obelisk is easy to visit independently as part of a day exploring central London—with self-guided smartphone app tours being a good option for those wanting commentary or navigation assistance.

You can also see it on hop-on, hop-off bus routes, which stop nearby. Other options include guided bike tours, riverside walks, and scenic boat tours along the River Thames.

Accessibility

The Victoria Embankment has wide, flat, pavements that are wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, refillable water bottle, umbrella or sun protection

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, casual clothing, layers

Not allowed

Climbing on the statue, writing on/defacing the statue, littering

Amenities

Boat tours leave from the nearby Embankment Pier, and there are cafés and restaurants close by.

Address

Cleopatra’s Needle is located on Victoria Embankment between Waterloo and Golden Jubilee Bridges, just minutes from Embankment Station. It’s also accessible by water taxi, walking tours, and hop-on, hop-off buses.

Driving

Getting to Cleopatra’s Needle by car isn’t recommended due to limited parking and frequent traffic in central London. If you do drive, the nearest place to park is Q-Park Covent Garden.

Public transportation

Embankment Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines) and Temple Station (Circle and District lines) are nearby, and Embankment Pier offers access via the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and other ferry and water taxi services.

Best times to visit

Avoid rush hour (typically weekdays 7:30–9:30am and 5–7pm) for a more relaxing time in the area.

Best days to visit

Weekdays—particularly Mondays through Thursdays—tend to be noticeably quieter than weekends, with fewer crowds, especially after rush hour.

Best months to visit

To see outdoor attractions, it’s best to come in the warmer months, so consider visiting between June and September.

Special events

While there are no particular events or festivals at the obelisk, the nearby Somerset House has regular events and an ice rink in the winter.