The 10 best busking locations in London

London has long been a city that celebrates street music, from acoustic indie sets in Southbank to soulful sax in Covent Garden. You don't need to venture far to find inspiring London street performers.

If you're a musician looking to hit the streets, this guide breaks down London's best busking spots, plus everything you need to know before you start performing.

Contents

• What to know before you start busking in London
• 10 best busking locations in London:
  • Covent Garden (West Piazza)
  • South Bank (Near the London Eye)
  • Camden High Street / Camden Lock
  • Leicester Square
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Underground (TFL Busking Scheme)
  • Greenwich
  • Portobello Road (Notting Hill)
  • Brick Lane (Shoreditch)
  • King’s Cross / Granary Square

What to know before you start busking in London

Before you head out with your guitar or mic stand, there are a few important things every busker in London should know:

Licensing & permissions

• Not all areas allow busking without a license. Boroughs like Westminster, Camden, and Southwark have specific rules.
• Apply for permits if needed. Camden, for instance, requires a permit and even regulates amplification.
• Check Transport for London’s (TfL) Busking Scheme if you're planning to perform in the Underground (Tube) — they run an official audition process.

Noise & amplification rules

• Amplification is not allowed in some boroughs (e.g., Westminster).
• Always keep the volume at a reasonable level, especially near residential areas or shops.

Where you set up matters

• Avoid blocking entrances, public walkways, or fire exits.
• Don’t obstruct businesses — a polite introduction to nearby shopkeepers can go a long way.

Be prepared for all weather

• London’s weather is unpredictable. Bring a waterproof cover, layers, and a way to protect your gear.
• A battery-powered amp with a rain cover is a great investment.

Cash, card & digital tips

• Many Londoners go cashless, so consider having a contactless payment option (like Square or Stripe) and a QR code for PayPal.

Time your sets wisely

• Avoid early mornings and late nights in residential areas so as not to disturb residents.
• Lunchtime (12–2 PM) and early evenings (4–7 PM) in busy areas tend to have the most foot traffic.

Respect other buskers

• If someone’s already performing nearby, don’t set up too close. A 50-metre rule is a good guideline.
• Rotate spots and take breaks. Some areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with informal time slots.

Legal & safety tips

• Keep your valuables close — theft can happen, especially in busy areas.
• Avoid selling merchandise without a street trading license.
• Be ready to show ID and explain your setup if approached by police.

10 best busking locations in London:

1. Covent Garden (West Piazza)

What makes it great: Covent Garden is arguably the crown jewel of London’s street performance scene. The West Piazza has a long tradition of hosting world-class buskers, including classical musicians, opera singers, and variety acts. The acoustics are incredible thanks to the covered colonnade, and the audience here is usually relaxed, generous, and international — often stopping to watch full sets. The area draws millions of visitors a year, many of whom specifically come to experience the live performances.

License needed: Yes. Apply through Westminster City Council and check their map of dedicated pitches.

Tip: Acoustic acts and classical music perform best here.

2. South Bank (Near the London Eye)

What makes it great: South Bank is one of the most scenic and people-packed areas in London, stretching along the Thames from the London Eye to the Southbank Centre. You get a constant flow of tourists, families, couples, and commuters. The vibe is upbeat, artsy, and open-minded. It's ideal for energetic acoustic sets, vocalists, and unique acts. You’ll often see crowds forming spontaneously and lingering for entire performances. Plus, the backdrop of the river and Big Ben is iconic for social media moments (and tip jars).

License needed: Yes, for pitches along The Queen's Walk - apply through the Southbank Centre. Audition required.

Tip: Weekends and evenings are prime time. Great for upbeat performances.

3. Camden High Street / Camden Lock

What makes it great: Camden is the heart of London’s alternative culture, home to punks, rockers, indie kids, and curious tourists. The street scene is always buzzing — especially near Camden Lock, where markets, food stalls, and vintage shops converge. This is a great place to express musical individuality, whether you’re a grunge guitarist or a beatboxing busker. The audience is often younger and more musically adventurous, with a strong appreciation for originality and performance flair.

License needed: Check the Camden Council requirements to see if you need to apply for one.

Tip: Keep volume moderate — noise complaints are common.

4. Leicester Square

What makes it great: Situated in the heart of the West End, Leicester Square is a hotspot for theatre-goers, film fans, and tourists. The energy here is non-stop, with people moving between cinemas, casinos, and restaurants. For buskers, it offers high visibility and exposure to international audiences — many of whom are excited to hear live music before or after a show. The vibe is flashy, a little chaotic, and perfect for eye-catching performances that draw a crowd fast.

License needed: Yes. Apply through Westminster City Council and check their map of dedicated pitches.

Tip: Best after 5 PM.

5. Trafalgar Square

What makes it great: Framed by the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column, Trafalgar Square is a symbolic and central spot in London. With tourists, locals, students, and activists all passing through, it’s one of the city’s most diverse public spaces. The vast open area allows space for larger crowds and group performances. Street musicians often get spontaneous applause and crowd interaction here, especially during golden hour. A great stage for confident performers who can command a big, open space.

License needed: Yes. Apply through Westminster City Council and check their map of dedicated pitches.

Tip: Morning to mid-afternoon is best before it gets too crowded.

6. Underground (TFL Busking Scheme)

What makes it great: The TFL Busking Scheme gives you access to over 30 designated spots in some of London’s busiest Tube stations, like Oxford Circus, Leicester Square, and King’s Cross. These are sheltered from weather and attract a high volume of commuters and tourists alike. While people are often on the move, a well-timed track can earn tips from appreciative passers-by. If you’ve got a tight, polished sound and stamina for long sets, the Tube can be one of the most lucrative and consistent places to busk in the city, but it's competitive. There are a limited number of licenses and huge interest in joining the scheme.

License needed: Yes, through the TFL Busking Scheme. They will be holding the next round of auditions in 2026.

Tip: Great for visibility and tips. Top stations include Oxford Circus, South Kensington, and Canary Wharf.

7. Greenwich

What makes it great: Set against a backdrop of historic architecture, the Thames, and a lively artisan market, Greenwich offers a charming and picturesque location for buskers. On weekends especially, the area fills with tourists, families, and locals strolling between the market, the Cutty Sark, and Greenwich Park. It’s a great spot for acoustic, folk, jazz, and world music — anything that complements the relaxed, artsy vibe of the area. You’re performing not just for passersby, but often for people who sit and listen.

License needed: Yes, there are designated pitches in the town centre and around Cutty Sark. Apply through Greenwich Council.

Tip: Acoustic or folk music works well. Try Sundays for max crowd.

8. Portobello Road (Notting Hill)

What makes it great: Every week, Portobello Road transforms into one of London’s most colourful and cosmopolitan street markets. With vintage vendors, antique dealers, food trucks, and tourists packed along the road, it’s a great place to grab attention and add to the festive vibe. Expect an international audience that loves rhythm, flair, and good energy. This is a fantastic spot for upbeat acoustic acts, reggae, funk, or world music. The market is open Monday through Saturday. Saturdays are the main market day, but Fridays can also be lively.

License needed: No - but review Kensington & Chelsea's busking code of conduct.

Tip: Best on Saturday market days. Keep it upbeat and fun.

9. Brick Lane (Shoreditch)

What makes it great: Brick Lane is the heart of East London’s creative and multicultural scene. Street art, vintage shops, curry houses, and weekend markets make it a magnet for hipsters, students, and trend-hunters. Music here can be bold and experimental — think loop pedals, spoken word, alternative instruments, or jazz fusion. The audience is young, curious, and up for something different. This is a spot where personality and performance art shine just as much as technical skill.

License needed: No, but check Tower Hamlets rules.

Tip: Sundays during the market are best. Try near the Truman Brewery.

10. King’s Cross / Granary Square

What makes it great: Once a quiet industrial zone, Granary Square has become a popular riverside hangout, surrounded by trendy restaurants, office workers, and university students (thanks to Central Saint Martins). The open plaza, steps by the canal, and proximity to King's Cross station make it a high-footfall area, especially in warm weather. It’s an excellent spot for relaxed lunchtime or after-work performances, with a mix of office crowds, tourists, and art students as your audience. A well-placed act here can create a festival-like vibe.

License needed: No — but Granary Square is privately managed so be mindful of other events in the surrounding area.

Tip: Early evenings on weekdays or Saturday afternoons are ideal.

That's a wrap

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting your busking journey, London offers an incredible stage filled with energy, culture, and opportunity. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city is full of spaces where your music can shine. Just make sure to know the rules, respect the space, and bring your best sound.

If you're looking to take your music career to the next level, read our guide to music promotion and check out if you're eligible for funding through UK music grants.

Most importantly — have fun, connect with your audience, and let the city inspire your next performance. Happy busking!