My list of ten things to do near Marble Arch will hopefully entice you to visit. It shows that this London W1 area, and the monument of the same name, is surrounded by some of the city’s most exciting cultural, foodie and shopping experiences. It’s a perfect starting point for a relaxed morning in Hyde Park or an afternoon exploring independent galleries, such as the MOCO Museum and Frameless. I’ll give you an overview of my favourite things to do near Marble Arch, London, from immersive art and Rococo treasures to a Rainbow Açaí Bowl and Middle Eastern feasts, plus retail therapy in Marylebone and Mayfair.
My checklist includes:
1. Marvel at Marble Arch
2. Relax in Hyde Park
3. See modern art at MOCO
4. Immerse yourself in art at Frameless
5. Explore The Wallace Collection
6. Eat in the Mercato Mayfair Church
7. Brunch in style at Feya Café
8. Feast on Edgware Road
9. Browse Connaught Village
10. Explore the surrounding neighbourhoods
My Favourite Ten Things To Do Near Marble Arch
1. Marvel at Marble Arch. Start with the namesake historical monument. Designed by John Nash in 1827 as a ceremonial gateway to Buckingham Palace, this neoclassical beauty was relocated to its current position in 1851. These days, it stands defiantly at the junction of Oxford Street, Edgware Road and Hyde Park, a curious slice of royal history in the Middle of modern chaos. It’s currently under renovation. Visit Marble Arch, London W1H 7EJ.
2. Relax in Hyde Park. Directly across the road, Hyde Park is a sprawling 350-acre green space and the ideal antidote to the Oxford Street frenzy. Walk around the Serpentine, rent a boat, or lounge with a coffee on the grass and make time to stop at Speakers’ Corner. The address is Hyde Park, London W2 2UH.
3. See modern art at MOCO. Just steps from the Arch, the MOCO Museum brings together over 100 works of modern, contemporary and digital art. From Warhol, Haring and Kusama to Banksy, Basquiat and KAWS, it’s a hit list of art world icons. Expect immersive installations, NFTs and bold, thought-provoking visuals all under one roof. The gift shop is fantastic. Visit at 1 Marble Arch, London W1H 7EJ.
4. Immerse yourself in art at Frameless. I enjoyed my visit to this immersive digital gallery, which transforms iconic paintings into walk-through experiences. Lose yourself in floor-to-ceiling projections of works by Van Gogh, Monet, Klimt and Kandinsky, brought to life with music and movement. It’s art, but not as you know it. There’s a café and gift shop on-site. Visit at 6 Marble Arch, London W1H 7AP.
5. Explore The Wallace Collection. A true hidden gem, The Wallace Collection is home to 18th-century paintings, French furniture, dazzling miniatures and one of Europe’s best armouries. It’s intimate, elegant, and free to visit, featuring a café and gift shop. You’ll find this striking townhouse just ten minutes from the Arch. Visit Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN.
6. Eat in the Mercato Mayfair Church. You’ll love this food hall inside a deconsecrated church. At Mercato Mayfair, you’ll find global street food, indie wine merchants, rooftop cocktails and moody crypt dining. It’s sustainable, surprising and delicious from every angle, whether you fancy bao buns, noodles, tacos, pizza, pasta or gelato. Visit St Mark’s, North Audley Street, London W1K 6ZA.
7. Brunch in style at Feya Café. A five-minute walk from Marble Arch, Feya is a dreamy escape of pastel interiors, floral installations and immaculately plated brunches. From wisteria waffles to rose avo toast or a pistachio iced white mocha, it’s a feast for your eyes and your taste buds. Head to 6 Marble Arch, London W1H 7EJ.
8. Feast on Edgware Road. As you wander along this street, you’ll appreciate the array of Lebanese eateries where you can enjoy time with friends over mezze and shisha. Try Maroush or Al Arez for warm flatbreads, falafel and fresh salads.
9. Browse Connaught Village. Just a few quiet streets behind Marble Arch, Connaught Village is brimming with independent fashion boutiques, Persian restaurants, bridal showrooms, interior designers and contemporary galleries. Pop into Boxcar for brunch, or try a slice of Basque cheesecake at La Maritxu. It’s a charming, upscale pocket with a relaxed neighbourhood feel. Visit via Connaught Street, London W2.
10. Explore the surrounding neighbourhoods. Walk towards Bond Street Station, and you’ll pass major retailers like Primark, Zara and the iconic Selfridges. Just behind Selfridges lies St Christopher’s Place, home to stylish restaurants and small boutiques. South Molton Street, near the station, is a car-free stretch lined with fashion stores and cafés. For designer shopping and fine dining, head to Mayfair or venture north to Marylebone for a village-like atmosphere and independent shops.
Helpful Information About Marble Arch London W1
Marble Arch is located at the western end of Oxford Street in Zone 1, with its own Central Line station and excellent bus connections. The area blends the bustle of Oxford Street with the elegance of Marylebone and the designer polish of Mayfair. It’s also a gateway to Hyde Park and other green spaces, making it one of the best-positioned areas for combining shopping, gallery visits, good food and nature. Next time you find yourself in Marble Arch, stay a little longer and enjoy your linger.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Reasons To Visit Connaught Village
Marylebone Village Helpful Area Guide
Mercato Mayfair Food Hall
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. To avoid disappointment, please check that the places I referenced in this article are still in business before you visit.
