Hands down, the most popular attraction at King’s Cross are the fountains at Granary Square. The 1,080 jets are individually controlled and lit, providing hours of entertainment and photo opps.
On a sunny day, the square morphs into an urban beach, with kids of all ages dashing through the jets, and lookers-on enjoying the spectacle from a dry distance. The fountains are open daily and are on during daylight hours.
Designed by Kent-based company, The Fountain Workshop, the square transforms at dusk when the fountains are illuminated with multicoloured lights, creating a spectacular light show. If you’re an early bird, you might catch the fountains at their most dramatic, as occasionally they fill the square with clouds of rolling fog. Lit from below on a wintry morning it’s a sight to behold.
Come summer, there’s no better way to spend a hot day in the city than with a visit to King’s Cross. And top of the list is a cool off in the fountains. The jets squirt and splash in patterns, providing hours of fun for kids of all ages. Even a bit of cloud and a chill in the air usually isn’t enough to stop a kid’s urge to take their socks off and get wet.
Toilets and changing facilities can be found at the Coal Drops Yard shopping area and near Waitrose. Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes! You’ll need it.
Restaurants Caravan, The Lighterman and Granary Square Brasserie all have lovely terraces overlooking the square. For picnic-ers, there are tables dotted around the square. Try the Sons + Daughters GO-van for takeout treats, Waitrose at West Handyside Canopy or Morty & Bobs at nearby Coal Drops Yard shopping area.
For the obligatory ice cream stop, head to Ruby Violet, serving delicious handmade ice creams and sorbets. If you have kids in tow, then here’s a listing of family-friendly eateries in the neighbourhood.
