In short
- The Media Cafe closed to the general public due to security updates.
- General public tours of the building ended in 2016.
- The only way inside is by booking free BBC Radio Theatre tickets.
In this article
If you plan to visit the BBC headquarters at Portland Place, your options for going inside have changed. Following recent security reviews, all public areas are restricted to vetted staff and ticket holders only. You can no longer walk in to use the ground-floor facilities.
Is the BBC Media Cafe still open to the public?
No, the Media Cafe is permanently closed to unvetted visitors.
Between 2019 and 2024, the building faced 119 protests. This prompted permanent closures of public indoor areas. You can no longer walk in off the street to grab a coffee or view the reception.
Can I book a tour of BBC Broadcasting House?
General public tours of the BBC headquarters were discontinued in 2016.
The building operates as Europe's largest live newsroom and a high-security broadcasting center. You can view the exterior from the street, but guided walks through the studios are no longer offered.
How can I get inside the building?
The only way for the public to enter is by securing free tickets to live recordings at the BBC Radio Theatre.
If you secure a ticket, you can enter the building for the duration of the show. All ticketed visitors must pass through airport-style security screenings upon entry.
| Access Type | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Media Cafe | Closed to the public |
| General Tours | Discontinued in 2016 |
| BBC Radio Theatre | Open to ticket holders only |
| Exterior Viewing | Open year-round |
Can I take photos inside the BBC?
Photography inside the building is strictly prohibited.
Even if you have an audience ticket, you cannot take photos inside the studios or corridors. However, exterior photos are welcome. You can capture the 1932 Art Deco facade and the modern glass extension from the street.
What can I see from the street?
You can see the Art Deco prow, Eric Gill sculptures, and ground-floor windows looking into the newsroom.
The Piazza connects the original 1932 building with the New Broadcasting House extension. From here, you can glimpse the live newsroom through street-level windows. The glass facade also features a digital ticker tape displaying breaking news.
What should I bring if I have an audience ticket?
You need your e-tickets and a valid photo ID to pass security.
Bring a passport or driver's license for verification. Keep your bags minimal to expedite the search process. Television and radio studios are heavily air-conditioned, so pack a light sweater.
Questions travellers ask
Where is BBC Broadcasting House located?
It is located at Portland Place, London W1A 1AA, just north of the busy Oxford Street shopping district.
When did New Broadcasting House open?
The modern extension opened in 2013 after a £1 billion redevelopment project.
Are protests allowed outside the building?
Protests and large gatherings are restricted in the immediate vicinity of the building.
