Queen Square, Bloomsbury – A Historic Medical and Architectural Landmark
Historic Bloomsbury garden square renowned for medical heritage, tranquil gardens, and Georgian architecture.
Queen Square in Bloomsbury, London, is a historic garden square dating back to the early 18th century. Originally a prestigious residential area named after Queen Anne, it evolved into a renowned medical hub, especially for neurology. The square features a mix of architectural styles, notable statues, and tranquil gardens, with a rich history including a Zeppelin bombing during WWI and associations with prominent figures and institutions.
A brief summary to 1 Queen Square
- 1 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AR, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore the tranquil central gardens and spot the statue of Queen Charlotte at the northern end.
- Look for the commemorative plaque marking the 1915 Zeppelin bomb site, a poignant piece of history.
- Visit the Church of St George the Martyr, one of the earliest buildings dating from 1706.
- Notice the late Victorian water pump, a reminder of the square’s historic water supply.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to Holborn Station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Queen Square. The station is well connected with frequent service, and the walk is on flat, paved streets suitable for all mobility levels.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including routes 10, 17, and 59, stop near Queen Square. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses are accessible and run frequently throughout the day.
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Taxi or Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Drop-off is available directly at Queen Square, but parking is limited and metered in the surrounding streets.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Bloomsbury or the West End, walking to Queen Square is pleasant and takes 10-20 minutes. The route is mostly flat and passes through historic streets, suitable for most visitors.
1 Queen Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 1 Queen Square
Origins and Early Development of Queen Square
Queen Square was constructed beginning around 1706 on land that once belonged to Sir Nathaniel Curzon. Named in honor of Queen Anne, the square was initially a fashionable residential area featuring houses on three sides, with the northern side left open to preserve views of the countryside, including the hills of Hampstead. The Church of St George the Martyr, built concurrently with the square, served as a chapel of ease and is one of the earliest surviving buildings. Early residents included notable figures such as Fanny Burney and Dr. Burney, who hosted Captain James Cook. The square’s layout and architecture reflect London's expansion from rural estates to urban squares in the 18th century.Transition to a Medical and Institutional Hub
By the 19th century, Queen Square began to shift from residential to institutional use. Charities, medical institutions, and schools gradually replaced private homes. The National Hospital for the Paralysed and Epileptic, established in 1859, expanded significantly, acquiring properties and reshaping the square’s western side. Other institutions included schools for the blind and colleges, marking the square as a center of medical expertise, particularly in neurology. This transformation mirrored broader urban trends where central London squares adapted to new social and professional functions.Architectural and Cultural Features
Queen Square showcases a variety of architectural styles from its original Georgian terraces to later institutional buildings. A notable feature is the statue of Queen Charlotte, often mistaken for Queen Anne, which stands prominently at the northern end of the square. The square’s gardens, managed by trustees since a private act of Parliament in 1832, provide a tranquil green space amidst the urban environment. A late Victorian water pump marks the site of an ancient reservoir that once supplied water to the area, linking the square to London's historic water infrastructure.Historical Events and Anecdotes
Queen Square bears witness to significant historical moments, including a Zeppelin bombing raid during the First World War in 1915. A bomb dropped by the German Zeppelin L13 exploded in the square, yet remarkably caused no casualties despite the proximity of hospitals and sleeping occupants. The square’s resilience and continuity through such events underscore its enduring role in London's urban fabric. Additionally, the square has connections to prominent historical figures such as King George III, who was treated nearby, and Sir Mark Isambard Brunel, who lived here while developing his engineering innovations.Modern Significance and Visitor Experience
Today, Queen Square remains synonymous with medical excellence, particularly neurology, housing the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and related institutions. The square offers visitors a blend of historic architecture, peaceful gardens, and commemorative plaques that narrate its layered past. It stands as a testament to London's ability to integrate heritage with ongoing professional and scientific advancements, providing a unique cultural and historical experience in the heart of Bloomsbury.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
0.3 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Statue of Thomas Coram
0.4 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
190 High Holborn
0.5 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Denmark St
0.8 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
1 Soho Place
0.8 km
Explore 1 Soho Place: A vibrant business park in London's Soho, surrounded by eclectic eateries, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.8 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
St Pancras New Church
0.8 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Staple Inn
0.8 km
Explore Staple Inn, a historic Tudor building in London, showcasing stunning architecture and a serene courtyard amidst the city's vibrant life.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.9 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn, a cornerstone of London's legal heritage.
Seven Dials
0.9 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Bow St
0.9 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Historic Seven Dials
0.9 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Goodge St
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Royal Opera House
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Soho Square Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen Square
0.0 km
A historic Bloomsbury square blending Georgian charm, royal ties, and a world-renowned medical heritage in tranquil garden surroundings.
Russell Sq
0.2 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.3 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Persephone books
0.3 km
Explore the unique literary treasures of Persephone Books, a London bookshop dedicated to uncovering forgotten works by women authors.
The Lamb
0.3 km
Step into The Lamb on Lamb's Conduit Street, a Georgian gem with Victorian charm, famed for its snob screens, real ales, and literary heritage.
Curzon Bloomsbury
0.3 km
Discover world-class arthouse cinema and documentary premieres at Curzon Bloomsbury, nestled in the iconic Brunswick Centre.
Smallest Street in London
0.3 km
Discover Emerald Court, London’s famously narrow alley, a hidden passage steeped in history and architectural contrasts in Bloomsbury.
Brunswick Square Gardens
0.4 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden where literary giants walked beneath ancient plane trees and bohemian dreams took root.
Coram's Fields
0.4 km
A historic seven-acre playground and community hub in London dedicated exclusively to children and young people.
The British Museum
0.4 km
Explore over two million years of human history and culture beneath the iconic Greek Revival façade and stunning Great Court of the British Museum.
The Brunswick Centre
0.4 km
A Grade II listed modernist residential and shopping complex blending architecture, community, and culture in Bloomsbury, London.
St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
0.4 km
Discover St George’s Church, Bloomsbury, Hawksmoor’s last English Baroque masterpiece crowned by its iconic stepped spire and rich historical legacy.
Princess Louise
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
Foundling Museum
0.5 km
Explore the Foundling Museum, where art, music, and history unite to tell the story of Britain’s first children’s charity and its enduring legacy.
Charles Dickens Museum
0.5 km
Step into the Victorian world of Charles Dickens at his only surviving London home, where literary history and personal stories come alive.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Margot
0.7 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.8 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.8 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Sarastro
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.9 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.9 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
The Ninth
0.9 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Noble Rot Soho
0.9 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Balthazar
1.0 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Palm Court Brasserie
1.0 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Punch & Judy
1.0 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That of London
0.4 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
not just a shop
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.8 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Primark
0.8 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.8 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Good
0.8 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.9 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.9 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.9 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Foyles
0.9 km
London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Radha's Boutique
0.9 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.9 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Souvenir Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.2 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Duke
0.5 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
The Coral Room
0.6 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
The Escapologist Bar
0.9 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.9 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
The Little Scarlet Door
1.0 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Prelude by Oriole
1.0 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Thirst Bar Soho
1.0 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Swift Soho
1.0 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Bar Termini
1.0 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Simmons Bar | Soho
1.0 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
1.0 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
The Spice Of Life
1.0 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.0 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.7 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.8 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.9 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Club49Soho
1.0 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.0 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Ivy Club
1.0 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.1 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
101 Nightclub London
1.1 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
1.1 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
1.1 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sophisticats Soho
1.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
1.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
