Getting to the Royal Albert Hall by public transport

The Royal Albert Hall stands on Kensington Gore, facing Kensington Gardens, on the northern edge of South Kensington. Unlike most London venues, it is not right next to a Tube station: the nearest stations are a 10 to 15-minute walk away. The walk is pleasant, but allow for it, especially as the Hall can seat more than 5,000 people and the surrounding pavements get busy just before the start.

By Tube: South Kensington or High Street Kensington

The Hall names two Underground stations as the closest, each about 10 to 15 minutes' walk away:

• South Kensington (District, Circle and Piccadilly lines): the walk takes you north up Exhibition Road, past the museums, towards the Hall.
• High Street Kensington (District and Circle lines): the walk goes east along Kensington High Street and Kensington Gore, beside Kensington Gardens.

By bus

Several bus routes stop on Kensington Gore, right in front of the Hall. The Hall's public transport page lists routes including the 9, 52 and 452. The 9 is particularly useful, as it links the Hall with Green Park, the nearest step-free Tube station (see below). Bus routes change regularly: check your journey on the TfL Journey Planner before you travel.

By train

The nearest main-line stations, Victoria and Paddington, are around 30 minutes' walk away, according to the Hall. From either, it is usually quicker to continue by Tube or bus.

Getting home after the show

With two stations and several bus routes, the crowd spreads out quickly after the show. Check the last train for your journey on the TfL Journey Planner, and for any National Rail connection on National Rail Enquiries. For a late finish, the buses along Kensington Gore are a good fallback.

Step-free access

South Kensington station is not step-free from street to train. The Hall recommends Green Park as the nearest step-free Underground station, then the number 9 bus, which stops close to the Hall. TfL step-free information can change (lift works, for example), so check it on the day.

At the Hall, Doors 1, 3, 8, 9 and the Box Office at Door 12 have ramped access, and public lifts at Doors 1 and 8 serve all levels. The Hall has a limited number of wheelchairs that can be requested in advance through its access team.

Coming by car? Read our guide to parking at the Royal Albert Hall. Planning a meal? See where to eat near the Royal Albert Hall and our advice on the best seats at the Royal Albert Hall. After the show, you can write a review.

Frequently asked questions

What is the nearest Tube station to the Royal Albert Hall?

South Kensington (District, Circle and Piccadilly lines) and High Street Kensington (District and Circle lines) are the closest, each about 10 to 15 minutes' walk away according to the Hall.

Which buses go to the Royal Albert Hall?

Several routes stop on Kensington Gore in front of the Hall, including the 9, 52 and 452. The 9 runs from Green Park. Check TfL before travelling, as routes change.

Is South Kensington station step-free?

No, not from street to train. The Hall suggests Green Park, which is step-free, followed by the number 9 bus to the Hall.

How long is the walk from South Kensington to the Royal Albert Hall?

About 10 to 15 minutes, mostly along Exhibition Road. Allow extra time on busy nights.