King’s Cross is one of the busiest and most bustling areas of London with an interesting history not many get to learn. It’s often a meeting point and a travel connection between several European cities. King’s Cross got its name from the King George IV statue that was later demolished in 1842, but Londoners decided to keep the name. Did you know that a historical legend states that King’s Cross is the final resting place for Queen Boudicca, the warrior queen of Iceni who fought with the Roman invaders, and that she is laid underneath King’s Cross’ platform 9?
Fun fact: There is no official stance whether King’s Cross should be spelled with an apostrophe or without. It’s even more confusing because Kings Cross Street doesn’t have an apostrophe while the King’s Cross tube station does. It’s a neverending debate!
Food in King's Cross
Kerb
Kerb’s not the typical dining experience. It’s a street food vendor, located on Granary Square. But if you’re looking for a large choice of London’s best selection of street food, Kerb is where you need to go.
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Address: Granary Square, Kings Cross, London N1C 4AA
Dishoom
The Dishoom restaurants are a lovely tribute to Bombay’s Irani cafes and that’s exactly the experience you’ll get if you ever step in. They call it a love affair with Indian food. In 2016, Dishoom was also voted as the best place to eat in the UK, so you know it’s worth trying out.
Address: 5 Stable Street, London N1C 4AB
Fortnum & Mason Tea Salon
So where do you go for your afternoon tea in London? Fortnum & Mason in King’s Cross! It started off in an apartment as a family business back in 1926 and since then, Fortnum & Mason became a must-try tea experience in London! They also feature a Diamond Jubilee room, which was opened by the Queen herself!
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Address: 1A, St Pancras International, Pancras Rd, Kings Cross, London N1C 4QP
Monuments in King's Cross
King George IV
Although it can no longer be seen, King’s Cross once held one of the biggest monuments dedicated to King George IV. The base of the monument was used as a police station, and then a pub, before it was destroyed. A local 2014 campaign pleaded to put the King back in King’s Cross, although no promises are being made just yet.
Platform 9 ¾
Although not a monument, Platform 9 ¾ has become a must-visit place for all Harry Potter fans that want to pose with the shopping trolley and pretend they’re on their way to Hogwarts. If you’re a huge Potterhead, you absolutely have to add this experience to your list!
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Parks in King’s Cross
Camley Street Natural Park
Camley Street is an urban nature reserve and a perfect place for a family outing or an area to escape big city life.
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Gasholder Park
Gasholder Park might be quite small, but it’s located in a picturesque setting that will definitely give you some peace when you most need it.
Regent’s Canal
Often crowned as London’s best kept secret, Regent’s Canal is a place where locals come to relax and take a stroll along the river.
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Other Places to Visit and Things to Do
The British Library
The British Library features some of the most historical papers on London as well as the entire UK. It's an ideal place to study, or even grab a bite at its impressive cafe. The library frequently holds exhibitions and other events, ideal for bookworms!
Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB
Word on the Water Bookshop
A boat? And a library? Count us in! Word on the Water is a picturesque boat that’s been transformed into a business and it’s one of our favourites. You can often find it somewhere along Regent’s Canal, although its location isn’t always guaranteed.
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The KX Tunnel
The KX tunnel was built in 2014 to connect King’s Cross to St Pancras International. It features pretty impressive LED lights that give the ultimate rave experience at any time of the day.
Transport
King’s Cross is well-connected to the rest of the city. The tube station features Northern Line, Piccadilly Line, Victoria Line, Metropolitan, and even Circle and District Line. With Euston station being just a short walk away, you’re also well-connected to London’s Overground and guaranteed easy access to all places. Alongside, the St Pancras International train station features direct routes to many European cities.
Affordability
Much like the rest of central London, King's Cross has a mix of budget-friendly and expensive areas. The good thing about it is that you can definitely find both!
That's it on our neighbourhood guide to King's Cross! If you have any tips on favourite places, make sure to share them below!
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