One of London's most historic thoroughfares has been declared a must-visit spot for the coming year. The global culture and travel authority Time Out has included The Strand in central London in its prestigious annual ranking of the best places to visit across Britain for 2026. The iconic street secured the 11th position on the list, praised for its unique blend of ancient history and a vibrant contemporary cultural scene.
Why The Strand is a 2026 Hotspot
While its origins trace back to Roman times, The Strand is far from being a relic. Time Out's editors emphasise that the area is packed with attractions, and the upcoming year promises an exceptional line-up of new and continuing reasons to visit. The selection is based on the destinations offering the most compelling experiences, from new restaurant launches and hotel openings to major artistic exhibitions and theatre productions.
A Cultural Powerhouse on Your Doorstep
Culture vultures will find plenty to captivate them along The Strand in 2026. Somerset House will host thought-provoking exhibitions on themes ranging from marine ecosystems to music fandoms and even edible earth. Meanwhile, The Courtauld Gallery is set to present major retrospectives featuring works by artists Barbara Hepworth, Salman Toor, and Georges Seurat.
The street's famed theatre scene continues to shine, with the critically acclaimed Paddington the Musical at the Savoy Theatre scheduled to run through the entire year and into 2027. This production, which won over audiences in 2025, offers a heartwarming theatrical experience for all ages.
New Flavours and Historic Pubs
Food enthusiasts have a major event to anticipate: the highly anticipated relaunch of Simpson's In the Strand. The legendary restaurant is being revived under the guidance of renowned restaurateur Jeremy King, with an expected opening in February 2026. This will sit alongside other celebrated eateries such as Toklas Bakery and the Savoy Grill.
The article also recommends exploring the cluster of historic pubs nestled around the Royal Courts of Justice, offering a classic London drinking experience steeped in character.
Luxury Accommodation Arrives
Accommodation options on and near The Strand are expanding significantly. The area will welcome the 90-room St Clement Hotel, a venture by Soho House founder Nick Jones. Adding a dose of supreme luxury, the Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch is also set to open its doors. While not technically on The Strand itself, the hotel is merely a short stroll away, further elevating the district's status as a premium destination for visitors.
The Full UK Picture
Topping Time Out's overall list of the 14 best places to visit in the UK for 2026 is the historic Scottish city of Stirling. Other notable entries include the East Sussex seaside towns of Hastings and St Leonards, the revitalised industrial city of Derby, and the picturesque Welsh island of Anglesey. The inclusion of The Strand highlights that even within a world-class city like London, specific districts can offer a uniquely concentrated and evolving experience worthy of a dedicated trip.
