Whether you’re visiting or a local, you’ll want to know where the best toilets are in central London. London train stations (not tube stations) have toilets, but they are generally not free and can cost up to 50p per visit.
The following public baths have been chosen for their proximity to major London attractions. (Remember, all museums and galleries have free restrooms, too.)
The Great British Public Toilet Map is a useful tool for locating toilets in your local area.
01
of 05
Look for the London Eye
The London Eye Ticket Hall is in County Hall and there are free toilets downstairs.
A few more steps along the South Bank take you to the Southbank Center. Head to the Royal Festival Hall as there are plenty of toilets and they are always clean. There is also a large cafe and bar, as well as several restaurants outside.
02
of 05
Near the Houses of Parliament / Westminster Abbey
The baths in front of Westminster Abbey cost 50p per visit. Fortunately, there are also free toilets in the Parliament Square area.
Methodist Central Hall is a two-minute walk from the Houses of Parliament, across from Westminster Abbey, and next to high-priced public facilities. The bathrooms are in the basement and there is a lift. Why not stop for a cup of tea at the quiet Wesley’s Cafe, also in the basement?
03
of 05
Trafalgar Square Sights
The public toilets are located on the west side of Trafalgar Square at the base of the central staircase. From the north terrace (the raised area in front of the National Gallery) you can access the restrooms and cafe in an elevator, or you can walk along the side of the plaza.
Baby care facilities are available.
Of course, you can always go to the National Gallery and use its free facilities.
04
of 05
Oxford Street Department Store
All the department stores in London have public toilets. Anyone can use them, whether they are a customer or not, and there is never a charge. Most department stores have public restrooms on more than one floor, so you shouldn’t wait.
The ones to remember on Oxford Street are Selfridges, House of Fraser, Debenhams and John Lewis.
Continue to 5 of 5 below.
05
of 05
McDonalds
McDonalds in London usually have clean public toilets. As long as you don’t get in the way of paying customers, you generally won’t offend them if you walk in and use the facilities. Even if there is a sign that says ‘Restrooms for customers only’, you can usually still get away with it.
