King's Cross
Our guide
King's Cross is a connection capital of London, offering onward travel on a whopping six tube lines, connections outside of London as well as to Europe via the Eurostar. It’s also a foodie hotspot, with Granary Square and the newer Coal Drops Yard cementing it as a destination to spend some time, rather than just travel through.
Stations: King's Cross St. Pancras Underground Station (Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines, Northern line, Piccadilly line, Victoria line), St. Pancras International (Thameslink, Southeastern, East Midlands Railway, Eurostar)
What kind of vibe does King's Cross have?
It’s a commuter haven, constantly busy with people constantly mingling on their way to work, or with suitcases on their way to a weekend minibreak or a trip abroad. Just hanging around St. Pancras, that ‘about to go on holiday’ excitement is contageous. The area is full of great restaurants and offers great food - worth visiting for, not just travelling through. Outside of the station areas, Kings Cross is popular with overseas students, being such a great transport hub.
Where can I grab a morning coffee?
In keeping with the busy nature of King's Cross, let’s assume you don’t have time to sit and enjoy a coffee and need to grab something quick before heading off to catch your train. In which case, Matchado is a kiosk that might not serve coffee – but they have many delicious treats and drinks made using a pure form of Matcha.
Give me three spots to go for dinner
There are just so many great places in Kings Cross. German Gymnasium initially feels like a lazy choice, because it’s straight outside St. Pancras Station, and not having to walk very far feels like settling for the closest place, but step inside this impressive building and you’ll soon forget this notion. They have great cocktails and special food celebrating the best of German cuisine.
Morty & Bobs offers a far more relaxed atmosphere, with unpretentious food (famous for it’s grilled cheese sandwiches, yes even for dinner) and pints of beer. Situated in Coal Drops Yard, you can usually grab an outside table and enjoy some live music in the square as a bonus.
Dishoom is not exactly a small independent business – but it’s one of our absolute favourite places so we had to give it a mention. Small plates of Indian street food, the dishes here are incredible. They don’t take bookings (always a sign of a good place) so be prepared to queue, but it adds to the experience. They’ll serve you delicious chai tea whilst you wait.
How would I spend a Saturday in King's Cross?
It would be unfair to suggest that leaving King's Cross would be the best thing to do of a weekend, but with the ability to be in Paris in under 2.5 hours you’d be mad to not at least look at it as an option! If you do want to stay local, then long lunches or late dinners are definitely what King's Cross can offer in spades.
Where’s the best place to be if you want to be outdoors?
Being so central, you are limited for greenery – but if it’s a hot day, and especially if you have kids, the Granary Square Fountains offer a makeshift splash park the little ones will love. In Summer you can sit around the edge, or even on the bank of the canal and enjoy the sun.
Does King's Cross have any hidden gems?
For Harry Potter fans, you will already know I'm sure, but you can of course visit the famous platform 9 3/4. Have your photo taken trying to push your trolley through the same wall as Harry, Ron and Hermione! Beware, in Summer and at weekends you will have to queue.
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