Hammersmith - Things to do in London

Things to do in Hammersmith

Despite spending more time stuck in traffic there than we care to remember, Hammersmith is probably one of the more happening places in West London at the moment, with both the giant Apollo, the Lyric Theatre and various bars and eatery providing a hefty dose of cultural life. It’s also sits uncomfortably between QPR, Fulham and Chelsea making it a no-mans land in footballing terms.

Walk away from the urban sprawl surrounding the A4 fly-over, and you’ll also find one of the most pleasant stretches of the Thames, boasting several oldie pubs, superior views of the annual boat race and a stroll that is capped off with the 19th century Hammersmith bridge, which has remarkably survived two IRA bomb attacks.

Places to go in Hammersmith

Hammersmith Apollo
A major player on London’s gig circuit, The Hammersmith Apollo is a massive, 5000 capacity former cinema that has seen the likes of Bob Marley, Sonic Youth, The Rolling Stones and even Michael Jackson play its stage. Now part of the O2 group, it’s still a pretty active venue, putting on a variety of big gigs and comedy.

The Dove
One of the last remaining pieces of old Hammersmith village, before it was swallowed up , The Dove is a cosy little pub tucked away in a alleyway right next to the river. A proper real-ale pub where James Thomson composed Rule Britannia, it’s pretty popular with both foodie and literary crowds.

The Lyric Theatre
Not to be confused with the more mainstream, less excellent Lyric theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue the Hammersmith Lyric is a cheery pile of decadence - a 550 seat auditorium flecked with jolly gilt edges and cushioned in bright, plush velvet.

Ravenscourt Park
Once the grounds of Ravenscourt House, which was unfortunately demolished after suffering severe fire-bomb damage during the Blitz, Ravenscourt Park is one of the most over-looked green spaces in London, with 32-acres of parkland, tennis courts and sports pitches. There’s also a paddling pool for kids and a very pleasant walled garden.

Old Ship
It’s a long trek around the bend of the river, but the Old Ship is worth it. Situated right on the waters edge, it’s one of those places that literally feels like you’re a world away from the buses, neon lights and angry pedestrians of London. It’s probably one of the best places to watch the annual boat race as well.