Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
BBC Broadcasting House sits just north of the Oxford Street shopping district. Plan a quick exterior stop or schedule your day around a live radio recording.
Getting there
The easiest way to reach the BBC is by the London Underground.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train: London Underground (Tube) to Oxford Circus station (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines) | 5-minute walk | £2.80+ (depending on zones) | Exit the station and walk north up Regent Street to Portland Place. |
| Train: London Underground (Tube) to Great Portland Street station (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines) | 8-minute walk | £2.80+ (depending on zones) | Walk south down Great Portland Street and turn right onto Langham Street. |
| Bus: London Buses routes 88 and C2 (among others) | Stops nearby | £1.75 (Hopper fare) | Alight at the Oxford Circus or Margaret Street stops. |
| Walk: Walking from Central London | Varies | Free | Located just a short walk north of the busy Oxford Street shopping district. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
You can view the exterior year-round at any time of day. The BBC newsroom operates 24/7, making early evenings a good time to see the illuminated glass facade and digital ticker tapes.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
All ticketed visitors must pass through airport-style security screenings upon entry.
Bring minimal bags to expedite this process.
How the day runs
Combine a look at the architecture with a central London walk.
A quick route to see the main architectural highlights and photo spots.
- Arrive at Oxford Circus
Exit the Tube station and walk 5 minutes north up Regent Street.
- The Clock Tower and Prow
Stand at the pedestrian island at Portland Place and Langham Place for a wide-angle photo.
- Prospero and Ariel Sculptures
Look above the main entrance to see the 1932 Eric Gill statues.
- The Newsroom View
Walk to the New Broadcasting House extension to look through the ground-floor windows.
How to manage your time if you have free tickets for the BBC Radio Theatre.
- Arrive early
Queue outside the designated entrance with your valid photo ID and e-tickets.
- Security screening
Pass through airport-style security. Bags will be subjected to thorough searches.
- Take your seat
Enter the historic BBC Radio Theatre. Photography inside is strictly prohibited.
- Show finishes
Exit the building onto Portland Place. The exact duration depends on the recording.
What to bring
If you are attending a live recording, you must bring a valid photo ID (such as a passport or driver's license) and your printed or digital e-tickets. Bring minimal bags to speed up the security checks. Television and radio studios are heavily air-conditioned, so pack a light sweater.
If you are just viewing the exterior, bring a camera or smartphone for photos. Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry an Oyster card or contactless payment card for easy use of the London Underground. Getting There
Easiest way to do it
Sherlock Holmes Walking Tour in London
2 h 4.8 (248)
- Professional guide
From$27per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Is there a dress code?
There is no specific dress code for viewing the exterior. For live recordings, standard smart-casual clothing is usually recommended. Check your specific ticket instructions.
Can I bring a backpack?
If you have a ticket to enter, bags and rucksacks are subject to thorough searches. Bringing minimal bags is highly recommended to clear security faster.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The BBC Radio Theatre provides accessible entry for ticket holders. The exterior viewing areas on Portland Place are flat and paved.