Earls Court Exhibition Centre

Earls Court Exhibition Centre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and London Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Earls Court Exhibition Centre, once a cornerstone of London’s cultural and entertainment scene, continues to captivate history enthusiasts, music fans, and visitors. Though the exhibition centre itself was demolished in 2014, the surrounding district remains vibrant, rich in heritage, and at the forefront of one of London’s most ambitious regeneration projects. This guide offers an in-depth look at Earls Court’s historical evolution, cultural impact, redevelopment plans, and practical advice for exploring the area and nearby attractions.

Historical Overview
Visiting Earls Court
Redevelopment and Future Prospects
Practical Visitor Information
Conclusion and Resources

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

The name “Earls Court” dates back to the 11th century, referencing the estate of the Earl of Oxford. For centuries, the area was primarily rural, serving as farmland and market gardens that supplied produce to London (Twenty Nevern Square). The construction of the Kensington Canal in 1828 and subsequent railway developments in the mid-19th century catalyzed urbanization. With the opening of Earl’s Court Underground station in 1871, the area rapidly transformed into a bustling urban centre.

Earls Court’s connection with large-scale events began in 1887, when the first exhibition grounds were established. These early structures laid the groundwork for the area’s emergence as a hub for public fairs, innovation, and entertainment (Modernist Britain).

Architectural Significance

The most iconic version of Earls Court Exhibition Centre opened in 1937. Designed by American architect Charles Howard Crane, the building exemplified interwar modernism, with a distinctive concave façade and minimalist concrete design (Modernist Britain). Over the decades, the building underwent several modifications but retained its status as a landmark of British modernist architecture.

Despite its significance, the centre was not granted listed status, largely due to alterations that had compromised many original features. The absence of protection ultimately paved the way for its demolition (Modernist Britain).

Major Events and Cultural Impact

Earls Court Exhibition Centre became synonymous with large-scale trade shows, exhibitions, and legendary concerts. It hosted the British Motor Show, unveiling iconic cars like the Jaguar E-type, as well as the Ideal Home Show and Royal Tournament. The centre also gained global renown as a music venue, featuring performances by Pink Floyd, Queen, David Bowie, Madonna, and Led Zeppelin (Twenty Nevern Square).

During World War II, the centre played a vital role as a munitions factory, temporarily shifting its focus from public events to support for the war effort.

Beyond its walls, Earls Court shaped the district’s cosmopolitan character. The area attracted waves of immigrants, particularly after World War II, contributing to its diverse community (City Relay). The exhibition centre’s draw supported local businesses, hotels, and restaurants, firmly establishing Earls Court as a destination for both leisure and business.

Visiting Earls Court

Current Site Status

The original Earls Court Exhibition Centre was demolished between 2015 and 2017. The 40–44 acre site is currently closed to the public and fenced off as it awaits redevelopment (Evening Standard; Trek Zone). There are no visiting hours or tickets available for the site itself.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Earls Court remains a well-connected and lively district. The area is served by Earl’s Court, West Kensington, and West Brompton Underground stations (District and Piccadilly lines), making it convenient for visitors exploring West London and the city at large (Trek Zone).

Nearby Attractions

While the exhibition centre is no longer accessible, the surrounding neighbourhood offers:

Natural History Museum
Victoria and Albert Museum
Science Museum
Kensington Palace and Gardens
Stamford Bridge Stadium (Chelsea FC)
Brompton Cemetery
The Troubadour (historic live music venue)
Historic pubs like The Prince of Teck

Interactive maps and virtual tours for these sites are available through official tourism and museum websites.

Redevelopment and Future Prospects

The New Masterplan

The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC), in partnership with Delancey, APG, and Transport for London, is leading an ambitious £8–10 billion regeneration project (Delancey; Evening Standard).

Key Features:

4,000–4,500 new homes (35% affordable housing)
20 acres of public green space, including the innovative “Table Park”
Three anchor cultural venues
Nearly 3 million sq ft of workspace focused on green technology
Enhanced transport connections and car-free zones
Integrated retail, hospitality, and community facilities (Construction Review Online; drMM Studio)

Community Engagement and Sustainability

The new masterplan emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and community involvement. Lessons from past controversies—particularly regarding social housing—have led to a design that prioritizes affordable homes, extensive green spaces, and support for local voices (Londonist). The project also features sustainable design elements, including the reuse of existing concrete infrastructure to minimize carbon footprint (Evening Standard).

Timeline and What to Expect

2024: Hybrid planning application submitted
2025: Planning decisions expected
2026: Construction begins
2030: First residents and new public spaces open
2040–2041: Full completion of the redevelopment (Architects’ Journal)

Practical Visitor Information

Getting Around

Underground: Earl’s Court, West Kensington, and West Brompton stations serve the area (Transport for London).
Bus: Multiple routes connect Earls Court to Kensington, Chelsea, and central London.
Walking: The area is pedestrian-friendly, with clear signage and accessible routes.

Accommodation and Dining

Earls Court offers a spectrum of accommodation:

Budget: Hostels and budget hotels along Earl’s Court Road
Mid-Range: Premier Inn, Ibis, and similar chains
Boutique: Independent hotels in Victorian townhouses

Dining options reflect the area’s multicultural heritage, including British pubs, international restaurants, and specialty cafés.

Things to Do Nearby

Museums: Natural History Museum, Science Museum, V&A Museum
Historic Sites: Brompton Cemetery, Kensington Gardens
Live Music & Nightlife: The Troubadour, Evans & Peel Detective Agency (speakeasy bar)
Shopping: Kensington High Street
Parks: Holland Park, Table Park (upon opening)

FAQs

Can I visit the Earls Court Exhibition Centre?
No, the centre was demolished and the site is closed for redevelopment.

Are there guided tours?
While the site itself is closed, several companies offer guided walking tours focused on the history and culture of the surrounding neighbourhood (Secret London).

Where can I attend similar events?
Events once held at Earls Court are now hosted at venues such as Olympia London, ExCeL London, and the O2 Arena.

Is the area accessible?
Most public transport stations and major attractions are wheelchair accessible. Some historic buildings may have limited accessibility.

How can I stay updated?
Follow the Earls Court Development Company and local news outlets for the latest on redevelopment progress.

Conclusion

Though the Earls Court Exhibition Centre no longer stands, its enduring legacy is woven into the fabric of West London. The area remains a dynamic blend of history, culture, and innovation, offering visitors a rich experience through its museums, pubs, music venues, and evolving urban landscape. As redevelopment progresses, Earls Court is set to re-emerge as a model of sustainable, inclusive urban living, honoring its storied past while embracing a vibrant future.

For the latest updates, curated audio guides, and event recommendations, download the Audiala app and explore related articles on London’s historical and cultural destinations.