Located between Chelsea, Westminster and Victoria, just before Vauxhall Bridge by the River Thames, Pimlico is a quiet residential area with buildings and homes from the 19th century. Its proximity to popular landmarks and areas like Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park makes it the perfect neighbourhood to stay during a trip to London.
Further down is Dolphin Square, an upscale village for wealthy residents like MPs, high-grade civil servants – and even celebrities! The sure thing is that there are lots to see and do in this area, and here is a selection of things to do in Pimlico.
Activities and culture
Westminster Boating Base
Feel like discovering London differently? Starting from the Pimlico riverside, Westminster Boating Base offers a selection of boats to rent, or you can simply kayak alongside the River Thames, or learn how to sail. Powerboating, kayaking for kids and adults, dinghy sailing… there are plenty of activities for water lovers, and here is more information about the options.
Tate Britain
Part of the Tate network of galleries in England, Tate Britain is a famous art museum in Westminster with free entry to the gallery and collections that showcase the work of talented British artists, in chronological order.
The Saatchi Gallery
Open in 1985, The Saatchi Gallery, in Sloane Square, Chelsea, exhibits contemporary artwork from emerging artists. Exhibitions started with the collection of Charles Saatchi and led to Saatchi Gallery whose reputation lies in introducing artists who gained worldwide recognition.
Places
Warwick Square
Created in the 1840s, this historic garden won gold awards in Bloom competitions between 2015 and 2021. Open on Sundays, you can admire its lush layout and vegetation including a rose garden, formal bedding, lawn area and a mix of shrubs, herbaceous plants and seasonal ephemerals.
Buckingham Palace
Jewel of the British crown estate, Buckingham Palace usually opens its door to visitors every summer. The good news is there is always something going on at the Palace such as the Changing of the Guard that occurs every morning at 10:45 am at The Mall alongside St James’s Park.
Important: We have been notified that unfortunately, Buckingham Palace State Rooms will not re-open in 2022. 2023 reopening dates are to be confirmed in due course.
Pimlico Gardens
Imagined in the early 20th century by John Gibson, Pimlico Gardens is a pretty and pleasant riverside park located by the River Thames at the south of St George’s Square. It is a lovely garden that offers seating, a drinking fountain, and artistic statues in marble or bronze. Sit down to contemplate the scenic views of the Thames and the surrounding architecture.
Churches
If you’re keen to walk around and explore the area, stop at the few churches and cathedrals in and around Pimlico: you’ll find St Gabriel’s Church on Warwick Square, St James the Less Church, an Anglican and Parish church, St Saviour’s based on the Catholic tradition and finally, walking back towards Victoria, stop at Westminster Cathedral, the largest Catholic church in the UK.
Food
Rippon Cheese
Founded in 1990 by Karen and Philip Rippon, this iconic gourmet cheese shop will please cheese lovers and is one of the highest-rated cheese institutions in London! A true part of its community, Rippon Cheese stocks about 500 kinds of cheese originating from Europe and mostly France and Great Britain.
Tachbrook Street Market
This is the lunch place for any nearby worker! Tachbrook Street Market sells a variety of food specialities for even the toughest palates. Open every day except Sundays, you can find stalls selling Asian food, fish, meat, cheeses, fruit and vegetables, household goods, women’s clothing and delicious hot food.
Pimlico Road Farmers’ Market
Pimlico Road Farmers’ Market is your next stop for organic and fresh food. Located on Orange Square (or “Mozart Square”), choose from apples and juice, fresh pasta, free-range eggs, meat & poultry and so much more!
Cask Pub & Kitchen
Beer is at the core of Cask Pub & Kitchen’s expertise, and this pub & brewery has been keeping over the years the tradition of cask ale. Therefore they offer a variety of beers with a rotating selection to keep the drink in the best condition, not to mention a delicious food menu with all the burger classics we love.
MOO Gastropub
If you’re feeling like having a Latin-style dinner, MOO is a well-known restaurant in the Pimlico area that serves authentic Argentinian cuisine. The chef and team use high-quality and organic ingredients, for an enjoyable taste experience while boasting a friendly atmosphere and delivering excellent service.
Artist Residence
In the heart of Pimlico, this place is part of a chain of cool boutique hotels across the UK. Located in Pimlico, the London establishment likes to call itself a “home from home” with its airy cafe, comfy club room and sunny terrace. Watch the impressive framed artwork while having a hot drink and nibbles. Artist Residence is the perfect Rendez-Vous for working, catching up with friends, meeting family or just having a nice long lunch.
There are lovely things to do in the area of Pimlico and if you’re in London for the first time, take this opportunity to visit this charming neighbourhood, or have a look at one of our London tours.
