Looking for the best things to do in Farringdon? This central London neighbourhood is a real mix of old and new, ancient and modern. Glass office buildings stand on medieval streets, and ancient pubs rub shoulders with Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you're into history, food, nightlife, or all of the above, Farringdon offers something unique for locals and visitors alike.
Expand your mind at Amanda Wilkinson Gallery
Distance from Farringdon station: 2-minute walk
This contemporary art gallery focuses on female artists and artists whose work explores issues around gender. The gallery showcases stunning pieces from internationally renowned artists, many of whom had their first solo UK exhibition at the gallery. There are regular exhibitions which are well worth visiting, get ready for deep conversations and a broadening appreciation for art.
1st Floor, 47 Farringdon Road, EC1M 3JB
Experience Michelin quality at St John Bar & Restaurant
Distance from Farringdon station: 4-minute walk
No guide to things to do in Farringdon would be complete without mentioning St John, the Michelin-starred restaurant famous for its offal dishes. Founded by Fergus Henderson, it’s a mecca for foodies and one of the most influential restaurants in modern British cuisine. Booking ahead is essential.
St John Street, EC1M 4AY
Dine in the dark at Dans Le Noir ?
Distance from Farringdon station: 5-minute walk
The term ‘unique dining experience’ is often overused, but this restaurant offers exactly that. At Dans Le Noir, you’ll eat a surprise menu, in complete darkness, served by blind waiters. It’s one of the most exciting and unusual things to do in Farringdon and is an incredible experience. You’ll need to book ahead, and it’s perfect for dates, outings with friends, or a work team building evening.
69-73 St John Street, EC1M 4AN
Discover the Museum of the Order of St John
Image credit: Museum of the Order of St John
Distance from Farringdon station: 5-minute walk
This underrated museum is one of Farringdon’s true hidden gems. Ever wondered how St John Ambulance got its name? You’re about the find out. Located in a beautiful Tudor gatehouse, the Museum of the Order of St John tells the story of the Knights Hospitaller and their legacy through the St John Ambulance. Entry is free, and guided tours include access to the 12th-century crypt and priory church.
St John's Lane, EC1M 4DA
Try your hand at pasta making at Pasta Evangelists
Distance from Farringdon station: 6-minute walk
Led by a team of expert chefs, you can learn to make fresh pasta by hand in traditional Italian style at Pasta Evangelists. There’s a variety of classes on offer, from absolute beginner to advanced. It’s fun, it’s social, and it’s one of the best things to do in Farringdon with friends (or for a first date!) The best part? Sitting down to eat your freshly made pasta at the end.
62-63 Long Lane, Barbican, London EC1A 9EJ
Explore Leather Lane Market
Distance from Farringdon station: 6-minute walk
Leather Lane Market is the oldest street market in Camden, with street food, fashion, and artisan goods. It’s one of the trendiest things to do in Farringdon, and is a great place to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables or one-of-a-kind handmade finds.
37 Leather Lane, EC1N 7TJ
Enjoy live music at The Piano Works
Distance from Farringdon station: 6-minute walk
This sassy music venue is one of the coolest things to do in Farringdon. The Piano Works is based in an old Victorian warehouse and is the perfect place for gossiping over cocktails, impressing a date, or getting your groove on with friends. There are different vibes to suit different moods, from raucous DJs on a Friday night to sultry jazz and bottomless brunch on weekends. Plus, if you’ve got a request, the pianist will play it live.
113-117 Farringdon Road, EC1R 3BX
Visit the historic Charterhouse
Distance from Farringdon station: 6-minute walk
Step inside 650 years of London history at The Charterhouse. It’s a former monastery, Tudor mansion, and almshouse just minutes from Farringdon station. Guided tours take you through the Great Hall, medieval cloisters and chapel, while a small museum offers a look at life through the Black Death, Reformation and Blitz.
Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6AN
Explore Smithfield Market
Distance from Farringdon station: 7-minute walk
Farringdon’s most famous landmark is Smithfield Market, one of the largest wholesale meat markets in Europe and a working site since the 10th century. While the meat trading is largely off-limits to the public, the surrounding streets are packed with atmospheric pubs and architecture from every era. The market is set for a major transformation, with the new Museum of London relocating here in 2026.
Grand Avenue, EC1A 9PS
Have your mind blown at the London Archives
Distance from Farringdon station: 11-minute walk
The London Archives house over three and a half million documents, some of which date back to the 11th century. It’s free to visit, with history literally being put into your hands, from Victorian workhouse registers to ancient maps. It’s one of the most mind-blowing things to do in Farringdon, with incredible historical artefacts right at your fingertips.
40 Northampton Road, EC1R 0HB
Explore the past at Islington Museum
Distance from Farringdon station: 12-minute walk
This free, local museum is dedicated to the history of the north London borough with exhibits from prehistoric times to the present day. Discover stories of the people, the places and the ideas that make up the borough. Islington Museum covers various themes, such as childhood, food and drink, fashion, leisure, healthcare, radicals, caring, home and wartime. Among the items on display is a bust of the founder of the Russian Communist Party, Vladimir Lenin, who lived and worked in Clerkenwell.
Patrick Coman House, 245 St John Street, EC1V 4NB
Eat at Exmouth Market
Distance from Farringdon station: 12-minute walk
One of the best things to do in Farringdon for food lovers is to stroll down Exmouth Market. This pedestrianised street is home to some of London’s best independent restaurants and food stalls. It’s a lunchtime hotspot for locals (and university students from nearby City St George’s) and perfect for a casual bite or meetup with friends.
Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QL
Get cultural at the Barbican Centre
Distance from Farringdon station: 15-minute walk
The Barbican Centre is the largest performing arts centre of its kind in Europe. It regularly hosts classical and contemporary music concerts, theatre performances, film screenings and art exhibitions, making it one of the best cultural things to do in Farringdon. From the latest blockbuster films to theatre shows that everyone’s talking about, the Barbican Centre is the place to go.
Silk Street, Barbican, EC2Y 8DS
Grab a cocktail in a former Victorian toilet
Image credit: WC Bars
Distance from Farringdon station: 21-minute walk
Yes, you read that right, one of Farringdon’s most unusual bars is The WC (short for Wine & Charcuterie, obviously). Of all places, it’s located in a beautifully restored underground Victorian lavatory beneath a disused railway arch. Expect candlelit interiors, quality wine, and a totally unique atmosphere.
Guilford Place, WC1N 1EA