Coram's Fields: A Historic Urban Playground and Community Haven in London
A historic seven-acre playground and community hub in London dedicated exclusively to children and young people.
Coram's Fields is a unique seven-acre urban open space in London's Bloomsbury area, dedicated exclusively to children and young people. Established in 1936 on the historic site of the Foundling Hospital, it offers playgrounds, sports courts, a youth centre, and a small city farm. Adults may only enter if accompanied by children, preserving its child-focused atmosphere. This vibrant park serves as a vital green oasis and community hub, blending rich history with ongoing support for local families.
A brief summary to Coram's Fields
- 93 Guilford St, London, WC1N 1DN, GB
- +442078376138
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Adults must be accompanied by children to enter, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Explore the sports courts and city farm for diverse activities beyond playgrounds.
- Visit during weekdays or weekends between 9am and 7pm for full access to facilities.
- Check out the historic central pavilion, a fine example of 1930s classical architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Russell Square station (Piccadilly Line), approximately a 10-minute walk to Coram's Fields. Buses 59, 68, and 91 also serve nearby stops on Guilford Street. Expect a 15-25 minute journey from central London with fares ranging from £2.50 to £5 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Coram's Fields typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £10-£20. Note that parking is not available on-site, so drop-off is recommended.
-
Walking
If you are staying in Bloomsbury or nearby neighborhoods, walking to Coram's Fields is pleasant and accessible, with flat terrain and safe pavements. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
Coram's Fields location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Coram's Fields
Origins Rooted in Compassion and Care
Coram's Fields occupies the historic site of the Foundling Hospital, founded in 1739 by philanthropist Thomas Coram. Disturbed by the plight of abandoned children in London, Coram campaigned for 17 years to establish a refuge where vulnerable babies could be cared for, educated, and protected. The Foundling Hospital became a pioneering institution, supported by King George II's royal charter and notable figures such as composer George Frideric Handel and artist William Hogarth. This legacy of care and social responsibility deeply informs the spirit of Coram's Fields today.A Playground Dedicated to Children and Youth
Officially opened in 1936, Coram's Fields was created as a public playground and community space specifically for children and young people. Its design intentionally restricts adult access to those accompanied by children, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. The park features multiple playgrounds, sports facilities including football pitches, tennis courts, and basketball courts, as well as sand pits and a pets corner. A youth centre and nursery school operate on-site, providing vital services and programs that support local families and foster community engagement.Architectural and Landscape Features Reflecting History
The park’s layout and buildings reflect a blend of classical and 20th-century design. Architect Leonard Holcombe Bucknell’s 1930s additions harmonize with the original Foundling Hospital grounds, including a notable central pavilion with Roman Doric columns and a distinctive copper roof, commemorating the Harmsworth family. The surrounding green spaces, including Brunswick and Mecklenburgh Squares nearby, preserve the historic character of this Bloomsbury neighborhood, offering a peaceful urban oasis amid London’s bustle.Community Impact and Cultural Significance
Coram's Fields remains a vital lifeline for families, especially those without access to private outdoor space. It provides a safe, inclusive environment for play, learning, and socializing, nurturing generations of London children. The park is managed by an independent charitable trust committed to maintaining its mission and heritage. Its connection to the royal family and ongoing community support underscore its importance as both a historic landmark and a living resource for wellbeing and childhood development.Engaging Activities and Facilities for Visitors
Visitors to Coram's Fields can enjoy a variety of activities tailored to children’s interests and needs. Sports programs, after-school clubs, holiday activities, and early years education are all part of its comprehensive offerings. The small city farm adds a unique element, allowing children to interact with animals in an urban setting. The park’s careful stewardship ensures it remains a green, safe, and stimulating environment year-round.Preserving a Legacy While Embracing the Future
As a Grade II listed historic park and garden, Coram's Fields balances preservation with modern community needs. Recent projects, like the Witches Hat Play Tower, were designed with input from local children, blending innovative play with respect for the site’s natural and historical context. This ongoing evolution honors Thomas Coram’s original vision of providing a nurturing space where children can thrive, making Coram's Fields a cherished London institution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Thomas Coram
0.2 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Sicilian Avenue
0.6 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
190 High Holborn
0.8 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
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.
Bleeding Heart Yard
1.0 km
London's most haunted courtyard, where Gothic legend meets gritty Victorian history beneath ancient cobblestones.
Euston War Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn 13-meter obelisk and bronze statues honor London’s railway workers who sacrificed their lives in World War I.
covent Garden ,
1.1 km
Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Hasdan
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant heart of London at Hasdan, where shopping, culture, and history meet on Tottenham Court Road.
John Wilkes statue
1.1 km
Explore the John Wilkes Statue in London, a significant cultural landmark celebrating civil liberties and the fight for free speech.
St Giles in the Fields
1.1 km
Medieval leper hospital turned Palladian masterpiece—nearly 1000 years of London's sacred and troubled history
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
1.1 km
Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
Denmark St
1.2 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Bow St
1.2 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
1 Soho Place
1.2 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
1.2 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Lamb
0.1 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.
Persephone books
0.2 km
Explore the unique literary treasures of Persephone Books, a London bookshop dedicated to uncovering forgotten works by women authors.
Brunswick Square Gardens
0.2 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden where literary giants walked beneath ancient plane trees and bohemian dreams took root.
Charles Dickens Museum
0.2 km
Step into the Victorian world of Charles Dickens at his only surviving London home, where literary history and personal stories come alive.
Smallest Street in London
0.2 km
Discover Emerald Court, London’s famously narrow alley, a hidden passage steeped in history and architectural contrasts in Bloomsbury.
Foundling Museum
0.2 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.
Curzon Bloomsbury
0.3 km
Discover world-class arthouse cinema and documentary premieres at Curzon Bloomsbury, nestled in the iconic Brunswick Centre.
Queen Square
0.3 km
A historic Bloomsbury square blending Georgian charm, royal ties, and a world-renowned medical heritage in tranquil garden surroundings.
The Brunswick Centre
0.4 km
A Grade II listed modernist residential and shopping complex blending architecture, community, and culture in Bloomsbury, London.
1 Queen Square
0.4 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden square renowned for medical heritage, tranquil gardens, and Georgian architecture.
The Postal Museum
0.4 km
Discover five centuries of postal history and ride London’s secret underground Mail Rail at The Postal Museum in Clerkenwell.
Russell Sq
0.4 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.6 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The British Museum
0.7 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.
Tavistock Square
0.7 km
A tranquil Georgian square in Bloomsbury, rich in literary history and peace memorials, embodying resilience and reflection in central London.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Margot
1.0 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
1.0 km
A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
Circus
1.1 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Sarastro
1.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
1.2 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.2 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
The Ninth
1.2 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
1.2 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Balthazar
1.3 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
1.3 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
St. John
1.3 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Noble Rot Soho
1.3 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Fancy That of London
0.8 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾
1.0 km
Experience the magic of Harry Potter at The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ in London, a must-visit destination for fans and tourists alike.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
1.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
1.1 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
Pop Boutique
1.1 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.1 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Good
1.2 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Primark
1.2 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
1.2 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Urban Outfitters
1.2 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
1.2 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
1.2 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Goldsmith Vintage
1.2 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Twinings - The Strand
1.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke
0.2 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.4 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
0.9 km
A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Coral Room
1.0 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
1.0 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
Be At One - Russell Street
1.2 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 Escapologist Bar
1.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Old Bank of England
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.2 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Plume Wine Bar
1.3 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.3 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Prelude by Oriole
1.3 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
1.3 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.9 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
1.0 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
1.1 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.
London Best Night Clubs
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.2 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Club49Soho
1.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.4 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.4 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
1.5 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
1.5 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
1.5 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Proud Late
1.5 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.6 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
1.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
