Mason's Yard: A Historic Artistic Hub in St James's, London
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
Mason's Yard is a compact square nestled in the St James's district of London, renowned for its rich artistic heritage and contemporary art scene. This historic cul-de-sac, once a stable yard, now hosts the prestigious White Cube gallery, which showcases cutting-edge contemporary art. Surrounded by notable landmarks and tucked away near Duke Street, Mason's Yard offers a unique blend of London's cultural past and vibrant present.
A brief summary to Masons Yard
- London, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the White Cube gallery for free contemporary art exhibitions showcasing renowned and emerging artists.
- Explore nearby Duke Street and Jermyn Street for historic pubs and luxury shopping to complement your cultural visit.
- Plan your visit during gallery opening hours Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm, as it is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- Take time to appreciate the contrast between the modern gallery architecture and the historic surroundings of St James's.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Tube
Take the London Underground to Piccadilly Circus station, approximately a 5-7 minute walk to Mason's Yard. The station is served by the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines. Tickets cost around £2.50-£6.00 depending on travel zones and time.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes serve the St James's area, including routes 9, 14, and 19. Alight near Jermyn Street or Duke Street and walk about 5-10 minutes to Mason's Yard. Bus fares are typically £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you directly at Mason's Yard. Travel time varies with traffic but generally takes 10-20 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from £10 to £25 depending on distance and time.
Masons Yard location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Masons Yard
Origins and Historical Evolution
Mason's Yard began as Ormond Yard, a 200-foot square stable yard laid out in the 17th century. By 1740, it was named after Henry Mason, a local property owner, marking its transformation into a recognized London locale. Historically, the yard was also known as West Stable Yard. Over centuries, Mason's Yard evolved from its utilitarian beginnings into a cultural enclave within the City of Westminster, embodying layers of London's urban and social history.Artistic Significance and White Cube Gallery
Today, Mason's Yard is synonymous with contemporary art, largely due to the presence of the White Cube gallery. Established in this location in 2006, White Cube occupies a striking modern building constructed on the site of a former electricity substation. The gallery features a ground floor and a naturally lit, double-height basement space, offering around 1,524 square meters of exhibition area. It is celebrated for hosting exhibitions by internationally acclaimed artists such as Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, and Ai Weiwei, making it a cornerstone of London's modern art scene.Cultural and Musical Heritage
Beyond visual arts, Mason's Yard has a rich musical legacy. The Scotch of St. James, a nightclub established in 1965 at 13 Mason's Yard, is famed for its association with Jimi Hendrix, who performed there upon arriving in England. The area also housed the Indica Bookshop and Gallery in the 1960s, a key venue in the London counterculture movement linked to figures like Yoko Ono and John Dunbar.Architectural and Urban Context
Mason's Yard stands as a rare example of a free-standing modern structure within the historic St James's area, contrasting its classical surroundings with contemporary design by MRJ Rundell & Associates. The square is framed by streets such as Duke Street and Jermyn Street, with nearby landmarks including the London Library and the Cavendish Hotel. This blend of old and new architecture enriches the sensory experience of the area.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Mason's Yard encounter a tranquil yet vibrant urban pocket, where art lovers can explore thought-provoking exhibitions in an intimate setting. The gallery's location in a hidden courtyard adds an element of discovery, while the surrounding streets offer a glimpse into London's refined St James's district. The area's layered history, from stables to art hub, invites reflection on London's evolving cultural landscape.Continuing Legacy and Contemporary Relevance
Mason's Yard remains a dynamic cultural site, continuously hosting exhibitions that push artistic boundaries. Its role as a nexus for contemporary art and its historical connections to London's music and counterculture scenes underscore its enduring significance. As a destination, it offers a unique intersection of history, art, and urban life in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beau Brummell Statue
0.1 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St James's Square
0.2 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Pickering Pl
0.2 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.2 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Burlington House
0.3 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.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.3 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.4 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
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.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.4 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.4 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Unmissable attractions to see
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.0 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.1 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
Prestat Chocolates
0.1 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Christie's London
0.1 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.1 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
Fortnum & Mason
0.1 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.1 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
St James's Piccadilly
0.1 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a historic Wren-designed church blending artistic heritage and serene gardens in the heart of London’s vibrant West End.
Princes Arcade
0.1 km
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Jermyn St
0.1 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
Burlington Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.2 km
Discover centuries of British hat-making tradition at Lock & Co., the world's oldest hat shop since 1676, crafting iconic styles for royalty and legends.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.2 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Pall Mall
0.2 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.1 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Golden Lion
0.1 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Kricket Soho
0.4 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Mele e Pere
0.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
NOPI
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Bantof
0.5 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
HIDE
0.5 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Blacklock Soho
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.5 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Kingly Court
0.6 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.1 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.1 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
John Lobb St. James
0.2 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.5 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Kingly Ct
0.6 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Machine-A
0.6 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Bond St
0.6 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
Cool Britania
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
LONGCHAMP
0.6 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Hamleys
0.6 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.6 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Carnaby St
0.6 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
0.5 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Below
0.5 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Duke of Argyll
0.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Disrepute - Soho
0.5 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.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Cahoots London
0.6 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Duke Of Wellington
0.6 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.6 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.7 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.7 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Old Shades
0.7 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Basement Sate
0.8 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
0.3 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
0.3 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.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
TSQ Club
0.5 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 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
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Sunset night club
0.7 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 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.
St Moritz Club
0.8 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly