Wellington Arch

The basics

Wellington Arch stands in the shadow of some of London’s top attractions, including Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. Some travelers cruise by the arch on hop-on hop-off buses, while others see it while sightseeing or on walking tours. Few are aware that you can enter the arch, browsing exhibitions inside and taking in views of Hyde Park, Green Park, and the gardens at Buckingham Palace from the balcony. Some London sightseeing passes include entry.

Things to know before you go

• The arch is wheelchair-accessible with lifts providing access to all floors.
• Watch out for cyclists; a busy bike route leads through the arch.
• Restrooms can be found across the street at Hyde Park Corner or Apsley House.

How to get there

Wellington Arch sits on a traffic circle between the southeast corner of Hyde Park and the western corner of Green Park. Take the Tube (Piccadilly line) to Hyde Park Corner; the arch is mere steps from the station’s exit.

When to get there

Visitors can only enter Wellington Arch in the day, though it’s worth coming back at night to see it lit up. Views from the observation gallery are best in winter, when there are fewer leaves to obstruct views.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard—a ceremony marking the shift change of the Queen’s Guard—is performed daily outside Buckingham Palace at 10:45am. Arrive earlier and situate yourself on the balcony of Wellington Arch to be treated to views of the Household Cavalry stopping traffic as they pass through on their way to and from the Changing of the Guard.

Ways to explore

Wellington Arch stands in the shadow of some of London’s top attractions, including Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. Not all visitors are aware that you can enter the arch (aka the old police station), browse exhibitions inside, and climb to its balconies for panoramic views of sights including Hyde Park, Green Park, and the Buckingham Palace gardens.

Many hop-on hop-off buses stop by the arch, and it’s a common fixture on central London walking tours. Some London sightseeing passes include entry, too.

Accessibility

The arch is accessible via an elevator to upper floors, but there are no accessible restrooms. It offers occasional British Sign Language (BSL) tours, which are listed on its website. Service dogs are welcome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Smoking, disruptive behavior, pets

Amenities

Exhibitions, viewing balconies, gift shop

Address

Wellington Arch sits between Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, and many London visitors will find themselves within walking distance while sightseeing. Other than marching over, it’s best to get there via public transit.

Driving

Wellington Arch is situated at busy Hyde Park Corner and has no on-site parking. There are paid car parks roughly 10 minutes away, but driving will require paying the Congestion Charge and the ULEZ charge (if eligible). Given the heavy traffic and limited parking, public transport is a much better option.

Public transportation

Hyde Park Corner is the nearest tube station, served by the Piccadilly line. Alternatively, take the Piccadilly, Jubilee, or Victoria line to Green Park station, a 10-minute walk away. Multiple bus routes stop locally, including the 134, 169, 207, 265, and 396.

Best times to visit

The Household Cavalry passes beneath the arch daily en route to and from the Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade, typically around 10:30am.

Best days to visit

The arch is open Wednesdays through Sundays, with weekdays typically being less busy.

Best months to visit

Late April through early June for mild temperatures, smaller crowds, and the nearby gardens coming into bloom.

Special events

Occasional state ceremonies, like Trooping the Colour (June), pass under the arch as part of the ceremonial route between Hyde Park Corner and Buckingham Palace.