Berkeley Square: Historic Elegance in the Heart of Mayfair
A timeless Georgian garden square in Mayfair, blending historic grandeur, iconic plane trees, and cultural elegance in central London.
Berkeley Square is a distinguished garden square in London's West End, renowned for its grand Georgian architecture, historic London Plane trees planted in 1789, and its rich aristocratic heritage. Surrounded by elegant townhouses and notable buildings like Lansdowne House, it offers a tranquil green oasis amidst the bustling Mayfair district. The square features a Grade II listed garden with sculptures, a historic pump house, and a legacy of famous residents and cultural references, including the classic song 'A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.'
A brief summary to Berkeley Square
- 45 Berkeley Square, London, W1J 5AS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the historic plane trees and sculptures in the gardens.
- Explore the surrounding streets to see elegant Georgian architecture and notable historic residences.
- Attend one of the seasonal events or the Berkeley Square Summer Party for a lively cultural experience.
- Look out for the Grade II listed pump house at the garden’s center, a unique historic feature.
- Enjoy nearby upscale dining and boutique shopping to complement your visit to the square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Green Park station, served by the Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk through Mayfair to Berkeley Square. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Bus routes 9, 14, and 19 stop near Berkeley Square on Piccadilly and Berkeley Street. Buses run frequently, approximately every 6-12 minutes during the day. A single fare costs about £1.75 with contactless payment.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can reach Berkeley Square directly. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £8 to £20 within central London.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Mayfair or Piccadilly, walking to Berkeley Square is pleasant and takes 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The area is wheelchair accessible with well-maintained sidewalks.
Berkeley Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Berkeley Square
Origins and Architectural Heritage
Berkeley Square was laid out in the mid-18th century by architect William Kent, on land originally belonging to John Berkeley, 1st Baron Berkeley of Stratton. The square was named after the Berkeley family, whose London residence, Berkeley House, once occupied the site until its destruction by fire in 1733. The surrounding buildings are primarily grand Georgian townhouses, originally homes to wealthy aristocrats who spent much of the year in the countryside. Today, many of these buildings have been converted into offices and exclusive clubs, with only a few retaining residential status. Notable structures include Lansdowne House, designed by Robert Adam, and the historically significant 50 Berkeley Square, reputed as one of London's most haunted houses.Gardens and Natural Features
The gardens at Berkeley Square are Grade II listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, prized for their simplicity and historic significance rather than horticultural variety. The centerpiece is a collection of some of the oldest London Plane trees in central London, planted in 1789. These trees are celebrated for their size, health, and historical importance, with one recognized as a Great Tree of London. The garden also hosts a charming pump house built in 1800 on the site of a former equestrian statue of King George III, as well as sculptures such as the Pre-Raphaelite fountain by Alexander Munro and a bronze statue of Velasquez’ Reina Mariana.Historical Significance and Notable Residents
Berkeley Square has long been associated with Britain's elite, housing prime ministers like William Pitt the Younger and William Petty, 2nd Earl of Shelburne, as well as other luminaries including Winston Churchill and Robert Clive. The square’s history reflects London’s aristocratic and political heritage, with its development shaped by restrictive covenants to preserve views and maintain exclusivity. The area was a high-value residential district in the 18th and 19th centuries, attracting wealthy upper-class families and notable figures from politics and society.Cultural Legacy and Modern-Day Charm
Berkeley Square’s cultural imprint extends beyond its physical presence, immortalized in literature, music, and film. The romantic ambiance of the square inspired the classic wartime song "A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square," sung by artists like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. Today, the square remains a vibrant hub within Mayfair, surrounded by upscale boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and exclusive private clubs. Its serene gardens offer a peaceful retreat amid the urban bustle, while the elegant architecture and historic ambiance continue to attract visitors and locals alike.Events and Social Life
Throughout the year, Berkeley Square hosts various cultural events, including art exhibitions and outdoor concerts. The annual Berkeley Square Summer Party is a highlight, drawing socialites and trendsetters for an evening of live music, champagne, and glamorous festivities under the stars. These events celebrate the square’s ongoing role as a prestigious social and cultural venue, blending its historic charm with contemporary vibrancy.Preservation and Lighting Enhancements
Efforts to preserve and enhance Berkeley Square’s architectural heritage include careful lighting design projects that highlight the grandeur of its historic buildings without disrupting the aesthetic. The lighting schemes use warm white tones to accentuate stone details and create inviting nighttime vistas, reinforcing Berkeley Square’s status as a distinguished landmark within London’s urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.4 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Burlington House
0.4 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
3 Savile Row
0.4 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.5 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.5 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.5 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.5 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.7 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Pickering Pl
0.7 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Bomber Command Memorial
0.7 km
A powerful tribute in Portland stone and bronze to the 55,573 RAF Bomber Command aircrew who lost their lives in WWII, set in the heart of Green Park, London.
Statue of Achilles
0.7 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
The Photographers' Gallery
0.8 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
0.8 km
A whimsical royal tribute marking the entrance to Hyde Park since 1993.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.8 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
Soho
0.8 km
London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clermont Club
0.1 km
London's most exclusive private members' club, where Mayfair's elite gather in historic elegance.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
0.1 km
A leading contemporary art gallery in London’s West End showcasing innovative exhibitions by international artists.
Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
0.2 km
Historic Jesuit Catholic church in Mayfair, London, renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and vibrant spiritual community.
The Royal Institution
0.2 km
Explore centuries of groundbreaking science and iconic lectures at London’s historic Royal Institution, home to Faraday’s legacy and the famous Christmas Lectures.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.2 km
An intimate bronze sculpture of Churchill and Roosevelt sharing a bench, symbolizing 50 years of peace and the enduring UK-US alliance on London’s New Bond Street.
Bond St
0.2 km
Discover Bond Street, London’s iconic luxury shopping street where history, high fashion, and exclusive boutiques converge in elegant Mayfair.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Punch Bowl, a quintessential British pub in Mayfair, London, offering delectable cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Sotheby's London
0.3 km
Sotheby's London: The world’s oldest auction house blending historic prestige with global art innovation since 1744.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.3 km
Discover over 150 years of British chocolate mastery and timeless elegance at Charbonnel et Walker in London’s Royal Arcade.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.3 km
Step into London’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic elegance meets exclusive luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Mount Street Gardens
0.3 km
A historic and tranquil garden oasis in Mayfair, blending Victorian charm with seasonal beauty and rich London heritage.
Shepherd Market
0.3 km
Discover Shepherd Market, a charming historic village in Mayfair blending boutique shops, cozy pubs, and rich London heritage.
Curzon Mayfair
0.4 km
Experience London’s premier art-house cinema in a stunning Grade II listed 1960s building, blending cinematic heritage with modern luxury.
Handel Hendrix House
0.4 km
Where Handel composed Messiah and Jimi Hendrix made his only London home – a unique double portrait of musical genius in Mayfair.
St George's Church, Hanover Square
0.4 km
Historic Georgian church in Mayfair, famed for its architecture, Handel connections, and vibrant musical heritage.
Essential places to dine
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
0.4 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
sketch
0.5 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Little Social
0.5 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
Quaglino's
0.5 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.5 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
NOPI
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Apricity Restaurant
0.6 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Great British Restaurant
0.6 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Starbucks Coffee
0.7 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.7 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Golden Lion
0.7 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Mele e Pere
0.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Kricket Soho
0.7 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.8 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LONGCHAMP
0.3 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.5 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Floris London
0.6 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.6 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Canvas Collection
0.7 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Jermyn St
0.7 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.7 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
John Lobb St. James
0.7 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
St Christopher's Place
0.7 km
Discover the charm of St Christopher's Place, a hidden shopping and dining haven in the heart of Marylebone, London.
Oxford St
0.7 km
Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.
Beyond Retro Soho
0.7 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.7 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
237 Oxford St
0.7 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Selfridges
0.7 km
Experience luxury, innovation, and culture at London’s iconic Selfridges department store on Oxford Street.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.7 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.4 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Disrepute - Soho
0.6 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Cahoots London
0.6 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.7 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
The Argyll Arms
0.7 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Duke of Argyll
0.8 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Thin White Duke
0.8 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Basement Sate
0.9 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Village Soho
0.9 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
NQ64 Soho
0.9 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Duke Of Wellington
0.9 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.0 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
1.0 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
1.0 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
The Nellie Dean
1.0 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.2 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
0.4 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Carwash Nightclub
0.5 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
0.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Sunset night club
0.8 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.8 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Box Soho
0.9 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.9 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.9 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger London
0.9 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.9 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
St Moritz Club
0.9 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Bordello London
1.0 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
1.0 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
