London is home to one of the largest concentrations of diplomatic missions in the world. Over 170 embassies, high commissions, and consulates are located across the capital, with major clusters in Mayfair, Belgravia, Kensington, and the surrounding areas of central and west London. This directory lists 40+ of the most frequently visited embassies with their addresses and contact details.
High commissions represent Commonwealth countries (such as India, Nigeria, Australia, and Canada), while embassies represent non-Commonwealth nations. Both provide the same range of services including visa applications, passport services, and consular assistance for their citizens.
Always check the embassy's official website for current opening hours and appointment requirements before visiting, as many have moved to appointment-only systems.
Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London SW1Y 5BJ
+44 20 7004 6000
Official Website →1-2 Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BZ
+44 20 7823 9911
Official Website →Arundel House, 4 Palace Green, London W8 4QD
+44 20 7937 9666
Official Website →13 Hyde Park Gardens, London W2 2LU
+44 20 7262 1841
Official Website →45 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8QT
+44 20 7235 8033
Official Website →South Africa House, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DP
+44 20 7451 7299
Official Website →Zimbabwe House, 429 Strand, London WC2R 0JR
+44 20 7836 7755
Official Website →Uganda House, 58-59 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DX
+44 20 7839 5783
Official Website →Australia House, Strand, London WC2B 4LA
+44 20 7379 4334
Official Website →New Zealand House, 80 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TQ
+44 20 7930 8422
Official Website →Most embassies and high commissions in London now operate by appointment only, particularly for visa and passport services. Walk-in services are increasingly rare, though some embassies still allow general enquiries without an appointment during specific hours. Always check the embassy's website before making the journey to central London.
Many embassies are concentrated in a few key areas. Belgrave Square and the surrounding streets in Belgravia host numerous diplomatic missions. Kensington, particularly around Palace Green and Queen's Gate, is another major diplomatic quarter. Mayfair and the area around Portland Place also have several embassies. If you are visiting multiple embassies, it may be possible to schedule appointments on the same day given the proximity of many missions.
When visiting an embassy, bring all relevant documentation including your passport, any reference numbers for your application, and printed copies of appointment confirmations. Security screening is standard at most embassies, so allow extra time for entry. Mobile phones and electronic devices may need to be surrendered at some locations.
If you need visa services, many embassies now outsource visa processing to external partners such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International. Check whether your application should be submitted directly to the embassy or through one of these services. Visa application centres are often located in different parts of London from the embassies themselves.
For emergency consular matters outside normal embassy hours, most embassies operate a 24-hour emergency line for their citizens. These numbers are typically listed on the embassy's official website. If you are a British citizen needing help, contact the FCDO on +44 20 7008 5000 at any time.