London Borough Of Hammersmith And Fulham

Visiting Upside Down House: Hours, Tickets, and Tips at Westfield White City, London

Publication Date: 24/07/2024

Introduction to Upside Down House

The Upside Down House at Westfield White City in London is a captivating attraction that has been drawing visitors since its opening in 2019. This whimsical installation combines the worlds of experiential entertainment and street art, offering a unique experience that challenges perceptions of space and gravity. Located in one of London’s most bustling shopping centers, this attraction is designed to provide an interactive and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. The concept of an upside-down house is not entirely new, with similar attractions existing globally, but the meticulous design and prime location of the Westfield White City version make it stand out. Visitors can explore a modern family home where everything, from furniture to fixtures, is inverted, creating an illusion that defies gravity and invites endless photo opportunities. The Upside Down House has quickly become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially among families and younger audiences looking for a quirky and fun activity. The attraction’s interactive nature and the unique photo opportunities it provides make it a must-visit destination in London (Westfield, Time Out).

The Hand & Flower pub on Hammersmith Road

The Ritz building on King's Street, Hammersmith

The Rylston pub and November morning sky

The Special One statue of Paddington Bear at Stamford Gate

Paddington Bear statue in a sitting position wearing a blue coat and a hat, located at Stamford Gate

Shepherd's East building on Richmond Way

The Pavilion at the corner of Wood Lane and North Pole Road

Row of abandoned houses with peeling paint and overgrown yards

21-56 Batman Close residential buildings

49-51 Shepherd's Bush Green, W12, historic buildings

85 and 87 Waterford Road historical buildings

Thames jetty with calm waters and a cloudy sky

corner shop at the junction of Bedlescombe Road and Tamworth Street in Fulham

A fruit stall in North End Road street market Fulham

View across the River Thames at Fulham in London

View across the Thames River to William Hunt Mansions

Advertising boards at Shepherds Bush Roundabout

[History and Significance](#history-and-significancehistory-and-significance)
- [Origins and Conceptualization](#origins-and-conceptualizationorigins-and-conceptualization)
[Architectural Design](#architectural-designarchitectural-design)
[Cultural Impact](#cultural-impactcultural-impact)
[Visitor Experience](#visitor-experiencevisitor-experience)
[Accessibility and Location](#accessibility-and-locationaccessibility-and-location)
[Ticketing and Pricing](#ticketing-and-pricingticketing-and-pricing)
[Significance in Modern Entertainment](#significance-in-modern-entertainmentsignificance-in-modern-entertainment)
[Community Engagement](#community-engagementcommunity-engagement)
[Future Prospects](#future-prospectsfuture-prospects)
[Travel Tips](#travel-tipstravel-tips)
[FAQ](#faqfaq)
[Conclusion](#conclusionconclusion)
[Sources and References](#sources-and-referencessources-and-references)

History and Significance

Origins and Conceptualization

The Upside Down House at Westfield White City, London, is a relatively recent addition to the city’s eclectic array of attractions. Opened in 2019, this unique installation was conceived as a blend of experiential entertainment and street art. The concept of an upside-down house is not entirely new, with similar attractions existing in various parts of the world, but the Westfield White City version stands out due to its meticulous design and prime location within one of London’s most popular shopping centers.

Architectural Design

The Upside Down House is a playful recreation of a modern family home, meticulously designed to create the illusion of an inverted space. The house includes a fully furnished living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, all flipped upside down. This inversion creates a mind-boggling experience where visitors can walk on the ceiling and interact with everyday objects in a topsy-turvy manner. The design challenges traditional architectural norms and invites visitors to engage with the space in a novel way.

Cultural Impact

Since its opening, the Upside Down House has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. It offers a unique photo opportunity, allowing visitors to capture gravity-defying images that are perfect for social media. This has made it particularly popular among younger audiences and families looking for a fun and quirky activity. The attraction has also been featured in various media outlets, further cementing its status as a must-visit spot in London.

Visitor Experience

The Upside Down House offers a unique and immersive experience that challenges visitors’ perceptions of space and gravity. Upon entering, visitors are immediately struck by the disorienting effect of the inverted furniture and fixtures. The house is designed to encourage interaction, with visitors encouraged to pose for photos in creative and humorous ways. This interactive element is a key part of the attraction’s appeal, making it a fun and memorable experience for all ages.

Accessibility and Location

Located in Westfield Square, Ariel Way, W12 7GF, the Upside Down House is easily accessible via public transport. The closest London Underground stations are Wood Lane (on the Circle and Hammersmith & City Lines) and Shepherd’s Bush and White City (on the Central Line). This convenient location within one of London’s largest shopping centers makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring the area.

Ticketing and Pricing

Tickets for the Upside Down House are reasonably priced at £5 per person, with free entry for children under three years old. Tickets can be booked in advance online, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free visit. This affordable pricing makes it an accessible attraction for a wide range of visitors, from families to solo travelers.

Significance in Modern Entertainment

The Upside Down House represents a growing trend in modern entertainment towards immersive and interactive experiences. Unlike traditional museums or galleries, attractions like the Upside Down House encourage active participation and engagement. This shift reflects broader changes in how people seek to experience culture and entertainment, with a growing emphasis on unique and shareable experiences.

Community Engagement

The Upside Down House has also played a role in community engagement, hosting various events and activities throughout the year. These events often tie into broader themes or celebrations, such as Halloween or Christmas, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement for visitors. This community-focused approach helps to foster a sense of connection and belonging among visitors, enhancing the overall experience.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the Upside Down House is likely to continue evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs and interests of visitors. Potential future developments could include new themed rooms or interactive elements, ensuring that the attraction remains fresh and exciting. As a relatively new addition to London’s cultural landscape, the Upside Down House has already made a significant impact and is well-positioned for continued success.

Travel Tips

If you’re planning to visit the Upside Down House, consider weekdays for a less crowded experience. Nearby attractions include the Westfield Shopping Centre, which offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Make sure to check public transport schedules and plan your visit accordingly.

FAQ

What are the Upside Down House visiting hours? The Upside Down House is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.

Are there guided tours available? Currently, there are no guided tours, but the self-guided experience is designed to be engaging and enjoyable.

Can I book tickets in advance? Yes, tickets can be booked online in advance.

Are there any restrictions? Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of their surroundings due to the inverted design.

Conclusion

The Upside Down House at Westfield White City is a unique and engaging attraction that offers a fresh take on experiential entertainment. Its innovative design, interactive elements, and prime location make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience something truly different in London. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Upside Down House promises a fun and memorable experience that challenges your perceptions and invites you to see the world from a new perspective.

For more information, visit the official Within London website.

Sources and References

Westfield. (n.d.). Walk on the ceiling at Westfield’s new upside-down house. Westfield
Time Out. (2021, August 26). Walk on the ceiling at Westfield’s new upside-down house. Time Out
Veronika’s Adventure. (n.d.). London upside-down house Westfield White City entry ticket. Veronika’s Adventure
Upside Down House. (n.d.). Westfield White City. Upside Down House