Television House London: Visiting Hours, Tickets and History
Television House, at 60–66 Kingsway (also known as 61 Aldwych), is a landmark in London’s broadcasting and architectural history. The address is also given as 60 Kingsway, London WC2B 6BX. Built as Adastral House in the early 20th century, it served first as the Air Ministry’s headquarters and later as the headquarters of Associated-Rediffusion, central London’s first purpose-built commercial television headquarters. It subsequently housed Thames Television and, after several changes of use and name, became the office building known as 61 Aldwych. (TV Studio History, Wikipedia)
The building is not generally open to the public, but its Edwardian façade can be viewed from the street. Its history, architecture and former broadcasting role make it a notable site in London’s media and governmental quarters, opposite the former BBC Bush House.
History
Adastral House and the Air Ministry (1918–1954)
Built as Adastral House on Kingsway, a street developed during the Edwardian era, the building’s design and scale made it one of the district’s prominent structures. From 1918, it served as the Air Ministry’s headquarters. During World War II, its rooftop was London’s official air-temperature measurement site, and its readings were frequently mentioned in radio weather updates. “Adastral” refers to the RAF motto “Per Ardua Ad Astra” (“Through struggle to the stars”). (Wikipedia, TV Studio History)
Associated-Rediffusion and commercial television (1955–1968)
In 1955, British Electric Traction acquired the building for Associated-Rediffusion and converted it into central London’s first purpose-built commercial television headquarters. Renamed Television House, it had studios and offices and became a base for the UK’s first ITV company. Associated-Rediffusion launched independent television news, variety shows and dramas that challenged the BBC, helping establish London as a global media centre. (TV Studio History, Learn English Network, Queen’s English)
By 1966, the building had a pioneering mainframe computer for advertising bookings, an early example of computerisation in UK broadcasting. The name “Adastral” also influenced later branding for Rediffusion Television.
Thames Television and the end of studio use (1968–1970)
Thames Television took over in 1968 and created Studio 4, whose street-facing windows brought live news broadcasts closer to the public. Thames moved out in 1969, ending the building’s role as a television studio. (Wikipedia)
Later uses
After Thames Television, the building became St Catherine’s House, home to the General Register Office until 1997. Following refurbishments, it was renamed The Centrium and later 61 Aldwych. It now accommodates organisations including Herman Miller, the Nursing and Midwifery Council and Takeda Pharmaceuticals. (Wikipedia)
What to see
Television House
The principal public view is the building’s grand Edwardian façade from Kingsway and Aldwych. The site’s broadcasting history includes its role as the first television studio hub in central London, Studio 4’s street-facing windows and the 1966 mainframe computer for advertising bookings. Its changing uses reflect London’s media and governmental history. (TV Studio History, World Cities Culture Forum)
Television Centre in White City
For a more interactive experience of British broadcasting heritage, Television Centre in White City offers public tours and exhibitions. Conceived in 1949 by Graham Dawbarn as a BBC “factory for television,” it was the world’s first purpose-built television studio complex. Its circular Helios building and innovative plan became symbols of post-war optimism and technological progress. Television Centre was the BBC’s headquarters for decades, producing legendary programmes, and its architectural and cultural value is preserved by its Grade II listing. (RIBA)
Notable features include:
- Helios Courtyard A circular courtyard with mosaic tiles, water features and a gilded statue of Helios, the Greek sun god, representing the BBC’s broadcasting reach. (RIBA)
- Mid-century details Original 1950s features, including terrazzo floors and sweeping staircases, preserved in recent renovations. (Wallpaper*)
- Studio 1 Its red gridded façade and “atomic dots” reflect mid-century fascination with science.
- Adaptive reuse A transformation by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) and other leading architects created a public piazza, apartments, offices, restaurants and cultural venues. The site also has curated interiors, community events and cultural programming. (Wallpaper*)
Practical visiting information
Television House
- Hours and access Television House is a private office building with no regular public visiting hours or interior tours. Its exterior can be viewed at any time, year-round.
- Tickets and tours There is no ticketed public entry or regular guided tour. Some walking tours pass by or feature the building. Occasional special events, including Open House London, may grant access; check the Open House London website for dates and ticketing.
- Accessibility The street-level viewing area and sidewalks are accessible, with street-level access for visitors with mobility needs. The building itself is not open to the public.
- Transport Holborn Underground station serves the Central and Piccadilly lines. Temple and Covent Garden Underground stations are also listed as nearby. Numerous bus routes run on Kingsway.
Television Centre
- Public areas Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Entry and tickets Access to public spaces and the piazza is free; tours and exhibitions may require tickets.
- Tours Guided architectural and broadcasting-history tours are available, including regular and private tours. Advance booking is recommended.
- Accessibility and transport The site is fully accessible, with lifts and ramps. White City and Wood Lane Underground stations are nearby.
- Latest details Check the official website for current visiting hours and ticket information.
Tips
- Photography The façade can be photographed from Kingsway and Aldwych. Daylight offers the best natural lighting; use public pavements for unobstructed views.
- Walking tours Book specialized walking tours in advance.
- Best time June is described as offering pleasant weather and extended daylight. (London Pass Info)
- Amenities Numerous cafés and restaurants are nearby.
- Events and media Television House is frequently cited in documentaries, books and exhibitions about British television. London remains a major international media-production centre, and the building’s innovative history continues to form part of British television’s legacy. (Time Out London, Learn English Network)
Nearby places
Around Television House, nearby cultural destinations include:
- British Museum A museum of global art and antiquities.
- Somerset House A historic venue for exhibitions and events.
- Theatreland / London Theatre District West End shows and theatres; the British Museum, Somerset House and Theatreland are all within walking distance.
- Covent Garden An iconic market and performance hub.
- BFI Southbank Screenings and exhibitions on film and television history. (BFI)
- Museum of London Media and broadcasting artefacts. (Museum of London)
- BBC Broadcasting House Tours and exhibitions at the BBC’s headquarters.
Television Centre’s nearby attractions include BBC Garden Lodge, Westfield London and the Design Museum.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go inside Television House?
No. It is a private office building, and only the exterior is generally accessible to the public. Occasional special events such as Open House London may grant access.
Does Television House have public visiting hours, tickets or regular tours?
There are no regular public visiting hours, ticketed entry or tours. The exterior can be viewed at any time, and some walking tours include the site.
Is Television House accessible?
The street viewing area and sidewalks are accessible at street level; the building interior is not open to visitors.
What public transport is near Television House?
Holborn, Temple and Covent Garden Underground stations are listed as nearby. Holborn is served by the Central and Piccadilly lines, and numerous bus routes run on Kingsway.
What are Television Centre’s public opening hours?
Its public areas are open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is entry to Television Centre free, and are tours available?
Access to the piazza and public spaces is free. Guided regular and private tours are available, with advance booking recommended; tours and exhibitions may require tickets.
Is Television Centre accessible, and how do I get there?
It is fully accessible, with lifts and ramps. White City and Wood Lane Underground stations are nearby.
