The Fortnum & Mason Clock
a clock that puts on a show
A grand Piccadilly clock whose founders emerge and bow to each other on the hour, to a peal of bells.
Free to visit · Piccadilly · Green Park · W1A 1ER
Opening: Performs on the hour
High above the entrance to the famous Fortnum & Mason store on Piccadilly hangs an ornate clock that does more than tell the time. On the hour, to a peal of bells, two little figures of the shop's eighteenth-century founders, Mr Fortnum and Mr Mason, emerge from their doors, turn and bow politely to one another before retreating.
Installed in 1964 and weighing several tonnes, the clock is a beloved Piccadilly fixture, and a small crowd usually gathers to watch the performance. It is completely free to enjoy, a charming bit of theatre on the hour, and the perfect excuse to admire one of London's grandest old shopfronts.
Getting there: Above the Fortnum & Mason store on Piccadilly, a couple of minutes from Green Park.
Best time to go: On the hour, to catch the figures emerge and bow.
Insider tip: Time your arrival for just before the hour to watch Mr Fortnum and Mr Mason emerge and bow to the bells. While you are there, the store's ground-floor food hall is free and a feast for the eyes.
Free things to do in London · London Free Guide