Somerset House Series

Somerset House Series 2026

From 16 to 26 July 2026, the Somerset House Series returns to the iconic courtyard at Somerset House on The Strand, London. This eleven-night summer festival transforms the neoclassical setting into an open-air concert arena showcasing world-class musicians and emerging artists.

Music

Each evening offers a diverse lineup spanning indie pop, jazz, electronic beats and more. Past editions have featured Grammy-winning performers alongside breakthrough local acts, creating an eclectic mix that appeals to all tastes.

Atmosphere

The historic courtyard, framed by 18th-century columns and sandstone façades, provides an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere. Guests enjoy the warm summer evenings on picnic blankets or lawn chairs, surrounded by fountains and art exhibits. Pop-up bars and street vendors offer drinks and gourmet snacks, contributing to a communal and relaxed vibe perfect for a night with friends or a date.

Somerset House sits in central London on The Strand (postcode WC2R 1LA) and is well-connected by public transport. The nearest Tube station is Temple (Circle and District lines), which is just steps from the venue entrance. Covent Garden (Piccadilly line), Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines), and Embankment (Circle, District, Northern, and Bakerloo) stations are also all a short walk away. Several buses serve The Strand as well. In general, visitors find it easiest to use London’s public transport network to reach Somerset House efficiently and avoid heavy city traffic.

London’s major airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and London City) all offer easy connections to the city center. From Heathrow, for example, you can take the Piccadilly Line towards Covent Garden or the Heathrow Express train to Paddington followed by a short Tube ride. Gatwick Express trains reach Victoria Station, where you can switch to the Tube or a bus for the final leg. London City Airport links via the DLR to central London, and Stansted and Luton have express trains into central London (to Liverpool Street and St Pancras). Once in Central London, it’s straightforward to hop on the Tube or a direct bus to Somerset House.

Driving to central London is possible but note that you will likely pay the Congestion Charge and potentially the Ultra Low Emission Zone charge. There is no dedicated parking at Somerset House. If you do drive, you can look for nearby pay car parks around Covent Garden or South Bank, but parking spaces are limited. Many visitors find it simpler to take public transport or a taxi/rideshare, dropping off on streets like Arundel Street or Lancaster Place (a short walk from the venue).

Central London offers a wide range of accommodation options. Hotels, guesthouses and rentals are plentiful in Covent Garden, Soho, Blackfriars, and near the South Bank – all within easy reach by Tube or on foot. To make life easy, pick a place near any Zone 1 Tube station (for example around Waterloo or King’s Cross) so you can travel quickly across the city. London’s accommodations can book up in summer, so it’s a good idea to reserve your room well in advance for the best choices and prices.