Car Hire Aldwych

Right in the middle of London, Aldwych has a quieter feel than you might expect. Tucked between the Thames and the theatres, this pocket of the city weaves historic depth into the everyday. Whether you’re gliding in via the A4 or winding through backstreets from the Embankment, Aldwych works well for drivers after a central but calmer base. Parking’s competitive, though not impossible—especially if you’re coming from Central London.

Spring brings brightness to the architecture—not just domes and arches but terraces blooming with unexpected colour. Summer stretches daylight across riverside strolls and gallery visits. While the postcode may echo with government and legal roots, Aldwych offers more freedom than you’d expect. We planned a morning outing from Mornington Crescent and found ourselves staying until dusk, not quite ready to leave.

Attractions In Aldwych

Step off the main road and you’ll find quiet corners filled with unexpected detail. In Aldwych, discovery feels unplanned—the kind of place where history lingers behind locked gates and art spills quietly into everyday corners.

Hidden London – Aldwych Station

We ducked into this closed Underground station not just for the history but the silence. This guided tour reveals wartime bunkers, unused tunnels and relics of old signage, preserved like a time capsule beneath the bustle above. Located in the East Wing, it’s one for detail-lovers and urban explorers alike. Open daily from 10am to 6:30pm.

Strand Lane Roman Bath

Just off Strand Lane, behind iron gates and high walls, sits one of the city’s strangest remnants—a mislabelled Roman bath that’s actually from the 17th century. It’s still fed by spring water and stepping inside feels like trespassing through time. Open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 12:30pm. Closed Sundays.

Somerset House

We approached from South Bank, where the river light catches the buildings just right. Somerset House blends public art, exhibitions and open courtyard events into a space that doesn’t care what hour it is. Whether you’re here for a gallery or just coffee under the arches, it earns the detour.

The Courtauld Gallery

Housed within Somerset House but holding its own, this refined gallery surprised us with its intimacy. Famous pieces—think Van Gogh and Monet—hang without the crowd crush and the spaces between paintings feel deliberate. Open daily from 10am to 6pm.

Mercer Walk

This promenade alley off Mercer Street feels like a reset—bright, open and lined with cafes and boutique spots. A popular option with those based in London who want a breather without leaving the zone. It’s not about ticking sights off a list; it’s for wandering, pausing and people-watching.

Leicester Square

While driving in from Tottenham Court Road, we decided to swing through Leicester Square—not for the cinemas but for the energy. It’s where street performers, late-night food and looming LED lights merge. Even if it’s not your usual scene, it’s worth standing still in the centre for a moment just to take it all in.

Bomber Harris Memorial

Positioned on the Strand, this modest statue generates quiet reflection in a city not short on monuments. The figure, flanked by walls etched with wartime insignia, reminds you that Aldwych has weight in its past—even when the present feels busy.

Huntfun Covent Garden

During a visit to Elephant and Castle, we found time to wander back towards Covent Garden. This self-guided treasure trail leads you through lesser-known alleys and market stalls selling art, soap and the occasional candle. It’s an active way to experience the place—walking, solving, noticing.

Buckingham Palace

Yes, it’s technically west of Aldwych but it’s closer than you think. The walk takes you through Green Park and past side streets with surprisingly little traffic. Approaching from Waterloo, this was an easy first stop before folding into Aldwych’s quieter folds.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

The bells are audible from across the river, a low rhythm behind the horns and footsteps. Inside, the cathedral draws the gaze upwards, even if you’ve been before. We recommend timing your visit early in the day (open from 8:30am to 4:30pm) to avoid the rush. The dome walk is worth every step—if the weather plays along. This spot draws a lot of interest from people in Euston, who often loop it into a half-day visit.

Places To Pause In Aldwych

Aldwych doesn’t push you into any one kind of experience. You can move from classical architecture to street food in five minutes flat. The dining scene leans towards casual elegance—think small plates and soft lighting. We booked a table at The Delaunay, a grand European café on the corner of Aldwych, where the schnitzels are crisp and the service well-paced without being showy. If you’re staying the night, The Waldorf Hilton offers a historic counterpoint to newer boutique hotels popping up nearby. For a lighter day, you’ll find plenty of espresso bars and independent cafés dotted near the theatres—just the kind of places to linger in before heading back out or settling in for the evening.