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KING’S CROSS

Living in King’s Cross

King’s Cross is the capital’s newest cultural quarter. Home to some of London’s most impressive, repurposed buildings, the area’s industrial past has helped to forge a glamorous framework for today’s smart living. There are new homes, schools, squares and streets. And even a new postcode, N1C. The historic Granary is now the site of the famous arts college, Central Saint Martins, while the Western Transit Shed has been converted into stylish offices, shops and restaurants. The historic Gasholder No.8 survives as a day-time park and night-time event space, and the imposing Coal Drops Yard is soon to be a traffic-free shopping destination.

A Brief History

Originally Battle Bridge Village, it is said to be the site of an historic skirmish between Boudica and the Romans. The latter settled here, at a camp called The Brill, while folklore suggests the warrior queen is buried beneath platform 9 at King’s Cross Station. There is an area nearby still known as Battle Bridge Place, and a road out of St Pancras called Brill Place. The district became known as King’s Cross following the arrival of a monument to King George IV, which stood from 1830 to 1845 at the crossroads between Euston Road, Gray’s Inn Road and Pentonville Road.

King’s Cross Property

Still enjoying significant, ongoing regeneration, the area offers a superb mixture of early Victorian houses, together with a great choice of conversion apartments, traditional-style tenement flats and luxurious, contemporary homes. There are significant numbers of mid-twentieth century council houses and a wealth of warehouses, many of which have been converted by property pioneers who bought into the King’s Cross area before its recent transformation. Perhaps the most prestigious properties, though, are located in St Pancras Chambers, on the loftier levels of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, a magnificent Gothic-style construction designed by the Westminster Abbey architect, Sir George Gilbert Scott.

What’s On

King’s Cross has evolved into one of London’s most exciting cultural destinations. Catch the latest releases at Everyman Cinema or discover emerging artists and designers through exhibitions at the Lethaby Gallery and performances at the Platform Theatre, both part of Central Saint Martins. The immersive exhibitions at Lightroom have quickly become a must-visit attraction, while Granary Square hosts outdoor events throughout the year, from its famous fountains in summer to seasonal installations. Nearby, Canopy Market showcases independent food producers, craftspeople and designers every weekend, while Word on the Water, London’s beloved floating bookshop, offers a unique stop along Regent’s Canal. Shopping centres around Coal Drops Yard, home to a carefully curated mix of independent boutiques, global fashion brands and acclaimed restaurants. Harry Potter fans can also visit the official Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ inside King’s Cross Station, one of London’s most photographed attractions.