Landmark
Beiwei 55
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Beiwei 55 is a contemporary residential landmark in the King's Cross regeneration zone of London. Designed by acclaimed architect David Chipperfield, the building rises 30 storeys with a bold, faceted facade that shifts in colour from grey to bronze as it ascends. Its most dramatic feature is a 10-metre cantilevered section that appears to float above the street, creating a sense of movement and lightness. The tower houses 253 apartments, with a public cafe and garden at ground level. Visitors come to admire its architectural audacity and to photograph the interplay of light on its angled surfaces. The surrounding area buzzes with new restaurants, shops, and the nearby Granary Square fountains, making it a vibrant urban destination. The building's name, Beiwei 55, references its address at 55 Bevin Way and the Chinese concept of the 'Northern Star' (Beiwei), symbolising guidance and permanence.
Don't miss
- Admire the zigzag facade and cantilevered section from the street
- Photograph the building at sunset when the bronze tones glow
- Visit the ground-floor cafe for a coffee with a view of the tower
- Explore the adjacent Granary Square fountains and canal-side walks
- Notice the building's colour shift from grey to bronze as your eye moves upward
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Beiwei 55
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Beiwei 55 with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inVIP Beefeaters Meet & Greet with Tower of London Guided Tour4.7★ · 363 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$56 per personSee dates →
Most bookedPrivate Tour: Black Taxi Tour of London4.9★ · 1,224 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$302 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleCentral London to Heathrow Airport private taxi transfers4.8★ · 163 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$157 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Best viewed from across the street or from the Granary Square side for the full cantilever effect.
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full height and zigzag pattern.
- Combine with a walk along Regent's Canal to see the tower from different angles.
- The ground-floor cafe is a good spot for a break, but check opening hours in advance.
A bit of history
Completed in 2020, Beiwei 55 is part of the larger King's Cross Central development, one of Europe's largest urban regeneration projects. The site was previously industrial railway land. Architect David Chipperfield won a design competition for the tower in 2012.
Common questions
Can I go inside Beiwei 55?
The building is residential and not open to the public, but the ground-floor cafe is accessible to everyone.
Who designed Beiwei 55?
It was designed by the British architect David Chipperfield, known for his minimalist and sculptural style.
What does 'Beiwei' mean?
'Beiwei' is Chinese for 'Northern Star', symbolising guidance and constancy.
Is there parking nearby?
Street parking is limited. The King's Cross car park is a 5-minute walk away.
Can I take photos of the building?
Yes, photography from public streets is allowed and encouraged.
What else is there to do in the area?
Visit Granary Square, the British Library, Coal Drops Yard shops, and the canal towpath.
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