City Hall
London’s government, on the waterfront
At the western end of Royal Victoria Dock, City Hall brings London’s civic life to the water’s edge. Home to the Mayor of London and the London Assembly, this striking glass building is where decisions about the capital’s transport, housing, environment and future are debated.
A landmark with sustainability at its heart
Designed by WilkinsonEyre and commissioned by Siemens, the building opened in 2012 as The Crystal, an exhibition centre exploring sustainable cities. In 2022, it became London’s new City Hall, giving one of the Royal Docks’ most recognisable buildings a new role at the centre of the capital’s government.
Its angular glass exterior is more than a distinctive silhouette. Six types of highly insulated glass help control heat from the sun while bringing daylight into the building. When it opened, The Crystal was the first building in the world to achieve both BREEAM Outstanding and LEED Platinum, the highest ratings under two leading sustainable building standards. Solar panels and an all-electric energy system continue that story today.
Step inside London’s civic home
Parts of City Hall are open to the public on weekdays. Drop into London’s Kitchen Café, explore the public spaces or watch a London Assembly public meeting from the Chamber’s seating gallery. Visitors can also see a London 2012 Olympic torch and the London County Council Roll of Honour. Free educational visits are available by arrangement for schools and other groups.
With the London Cable Car next door and the open water of Royal Victoria Dock in front of you, City Hall is an inviting starting point for exploring the waterfront.
City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE. Nearest DLR: Royal Victoria. Check public access and meeting times before visiting; entrance security checks apply.