Known for its mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture, important historical and cultural landmarks, and quiet, quaint streets filled with period charm, Marylebone offers a variety of pursuits for history enthusiasts, art lovers, families, and everyone in between.
This truly cosmopolitan area – which sits directly north of Mayfair – offers a variety of points and places of interest that straddle the line between the more obvious attractions and the slightly more secluded ones. There is a host of things to do to keep one occupied for days in this charming part of old London. Read on to discover the best.
Regent’s Park Zoo
Opened in 1828, Regent’s Park Zoo is one of the world’s oldest animal enclosures and was originally conceived as a location for the scientific study of the various species housed there. Over the years, the zoo has transformed into a hub of conservation, housing more than 750 species from around the globe, and playing an important role in the study of animals.
Today, the zoo is a family favourite, where visitors can enjoy attractions like the Land of the Lions, Penguin Beach, and the Gorilla Kingdom. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm during the winter months (with extended hours in summer, including nocturnal trips to encounter the more elusive residents), it’s best to visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds. Families and animal lovers alike will find it an engaging and inspiring activity on the edges of Marylebone.
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
A trip to Marylebone would never be complete without a visit to 221B Baker Street, the famous home of the greatest fictional detective in history, Sherlock Holmes. Opened in 1990, the museum celebrates Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary character, offering a meticulously recreated Victorian home that serves as the perfect gathering point for Holmes enthusiasts, complete with study, laboratory, and personal artefacts from many “famous” cases.
The museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm, but it’s worth arriving early, especially on weekends, to beat the queues. Whether you're a devoted fan of the books or simply curious to learn more about Victorian London, this delightful recreation offers a glimpse into the world of literature's most famous sleuth.
The Wallace Collection
The Wallace Collection, residing in the grandiose Hertford House on Manchester Square – an area of the neighbourhood known for its exceptional townhouses – is one of Marylebone’s hidden gems. Established in 1897, it showcases a stunning arrangement of art, furniture, and armaments amassed by the Marquesses of Hertford. The exhibition also houses the collections of the titular owner, Sir Richard Wallace.
The museum is renowned for its assortment of 18th-century French art, boasting works by masters such as Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt, with both pre- and post-revolution pieces on display. With free admission daily from 10 am to 5 pm, the Wallace Collection offers an unmissable experience for art lovers in a surprisingly low-key location, deep in the heart of this charming neighbourhood.
Madame Tussauds
One of London’s most iconic attractions, Madame Tussauds has been a beloved city landmark since it first opened in 1835, creating a globally recognisable brand that now traverses the globe. Initially a travelling exhibition of wax figures curated by Marie Tussaud, the museum found its permanent home on Marylebone Road in 1884.
Today, it draws millions of visitors each year with its uncanny wax replicas of celebrities, prominent historical figures, and the occasional fictional characters thrown in for good measure. Guests can walk the red carpet and take a thrilling trip through history in one of the city’s signature “black cabs” on the Spirit of London ride. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance as this represents a particularly popular attraction.
The Twist Museum
The Twist Museum is a relatively new addition to Marylebone’s list of attractions, but it has quickly grown in popularity for its captivating optical illusions and immersive exhibits.
Designed to engage and intrigue visitors, the museum sits at the intersection of art, science, and perception, offering a chance to experience reality from entirely new angles. Each piece is an invitation to interact and question what you think you have seen at first glance, making it an accessible destination for all ages.
Open from 10 am to 7 pm daily, it’s a great option for any occasion, whether looking to inject a sense of fun and surrealism into a date, or simply for one of those rainy London days. With its playful yet educational appeal, the Twist Museum is a delightful alternative attraction to Marylebone’s many leisurely pursuits.
Selfridges
Founded by the visionary American entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge, this iconic London retail landmark has stood on Oxford Street since 1909 and is rightly credited for revolutionising the consumer shopping experience. With its grand architecture, innovative window displays, and commitment to customer experience, Selfridges has remained at the forefront of high-end retail.
Spanning nine separate floors, the department store offers a welcome retail therapy experience, including a bar and restaurant for visitors to take a break from perusing the various designer outlets and displays. Perfect for any time of year, a trip to Marylebone is never complete without a wander through the hallowed aisles of Selfridges.
Maylebone is home to some of London’s most sophisticated residents. Attracted by the abundance of exceptional property in the area – such as these majestic penthouses or these spacious four-bedroom apartments – the neighbourhood’s inhabitants also benefit from a wide range of things to do. From admiring the grand architecture of its streets, to perusing the intriguing exhibits and iconic cultural landmarks of the area, Marylebone remains one of the most popular areas of London for both residents and visitors.
