Postman's Park: A Sanctuary of Everyday Heroism in London
A serene London park honoring everyday heroes through a unique memorial of selfless sacrifice, nestled near St Paul’s Cathedral.
Nestled near St Paul’s Cathedral in London, Postman’s Park is a tranquil urban green space famed for its unique Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice. Established in 1880 on former churchyards, the park offers a peaceful retreat for city workers and visitors alike. Its centerpiece is a sheltered wall adorned with 54 ceramic tablets commemorating 62 ordinary individuals who lost their lives saving others, celebrating acts of courage and selflessness rarely recognized elsewhere.
A brief summary to Postman's Park
- King Edward St, London, EC1A 7BT, GB
- +442073744127
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice to read the touching stories of ordinary people who died saving others.
- Enjoy the peaceful garden and goldfish pond, a perfect spot for a quiet break from the city bustle.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours, as the park is open from 8am to 4:30pm daily.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral for a fuller cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Central Line to St Paul’s Station, located about 500 meters from Postman’s Park. The journey from central London stations typically takes 10–20 minutes. The station is well-served and accessible, with frequent trains running every 3–5 minutes during peak hours. There is no charge beyond the standard Oyster or contactless fare.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including numbers 4, 8, and 25, stop within a 5–10 minute walk of Postman’s Park. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares payable by Oyster or contactless payment. Note that traffic congestion can affect journey times, which generally range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London.
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Walking
If you are nearby, walking to Postman’s Park is an excellent option. From St Paul’s Cathedral, it is approximately a 7-minute walk over mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The route offers an opportunity to enjoy the historic City of London surroundings.
Postman's Park 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 Postman's Park
Origins and Urban Oasis
Postman’s Park, opened in 1880, occupies a patchwork of former burial grounds from three churches: St Botolph’s Aldersgate, St Leonard’s Foster Lane, and Christchurch Greyfriars. This green space emerged as a vital refuge amid the dense City of London, originally serving as a leisure spot for workers of the nearby General Post Office, which gave the park its name. Elevated above street level due to centuries of burials, the park’s varied shape reflects its layered history, blending solemn remembrance with urban greenery.The Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice
The park’s defining feature is the Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice, conceived by Victorian artist George Frederic Watts. Unveiled in 1900, this modest yet profoundly moving monument consists of a long wooden shelter protecting a wall lined with 54 glazed ceramic tablets. Each tablet honors an individual who died saving another’s life, spanning from 1863 to 2007, including men, women, and children. The memorial was intended not only to remember these forgotten heroes but also to inspire moral reflection on everyday courage and altruism.Stories Carved in Ceramic
The memorial tablets tell poignant, often tragic stories of selflessness. Examples include Mary Rogers, who sacrificed her life belt to save others on a sinking ship, and Arthur Strange and Mark Tomlinson, who perished rescuing girls from quicksand. These narratives humanize the abstract concept of heroism, connecting visitors emotionally with acts of bravery that might otherwise be lost to history. The youngest commemorated was just eight years old, emphasizing the universal nature of courage.Historical Context and Preservation
Postman’s Park reflects Victorian values and the era’s moralistic approach to heroism. Watts’s vision was unique in commemorating ordinary people rather than the wealthy or titled. Despite waning public engagement in the mid-20th century, the memorial remains protected as a Grade II listed site, preserving its historical integrity. Efforts by the Friends of the Watts Memorial continue to promote and maintain this rare tribute to everyday heroism.A Quiet Refuge Amidst the City
Today, Postman’s Park offers a serene escape from the bustling financial district. Its shady trees, goldfish pond, and flower beds create a contemplative atmosphere. Visitors often find themselves lingering at the memorial, reflecting on the selfless acts that contrast with the surrounding corporate environment. The park’s proximity to landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral enhances its appeal as a peaceful cultural stop.Legacy and Cultural Impact
The memorial’s stories have inspired art and film, notably influencing the 2004 movie "Closer." While the park remains modest in scale, its message resonates widely, celebrating the quiet heroism embedded in daily life. Postman’s Park stands as a unique monument to human kindness and sacrifice, inviting visitors to honor those who gave their lives for others in a city often defined by commerce and progress.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.2 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
London City wall
0.2 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
Temple Bar London
0.3 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Queen Anne Statue
0.4 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Ludgate Circus
0.5 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.6 km
Historic St Bride's Church on Fleet Street, London, famed for its wedding cake spire and deep ties to printing and journalism heritage.
City of London
0.7 km
Experience the captivating blend of history and modernity in the City of London, where iconic landmarks meet vibrant culture and culinary delights.
St James Garlickhythe
0.7 km
Wren's luminous masterpiece on Garlick Hill, where medieval history meets architectural brilliance and mystery.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.7 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Bleeding Heart Yard
0.7 km
London's most haunted courtyard, where Gothic legend meets gritty Victorian history beneath ancient cobblestones.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Hodge The Cat Statue in London, a delightful tribute to literary history and a must-visit for cat lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
0.1 km
Historic Georgian church at London’s eastern City gate, blending medieval roots with Victorian artistry and community resilience.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.1 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
London Wall Museum Of London
0.2 km
Explore the ancient Roman city wall and artefacts at the Museum of London London Wall, a unique historical gem in Barbican.
St Vedast alias Foster
0.2 km
A historic City of London church blending medieval roots, Wren’s baroque spire, and wartime resilience in a tranquil urban sanctuary.
St Bartholomew's Gatehouse
0.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of St Bartholomew's Gatehouse, a must-visit historical landmark in the heart of London.
St Bartholomew the Great
0.3 km
Explore St Bartholomew the Great, a historic Anglican church in London, rich in architecture, culture, and tranquility, perfect for all visitors.
Golden Boy of Pye Corner
0.3 km
Discover the Golden Boy of Pye Corner, a gilded statue marking where London’s Great Fire ended and a moral tale of gluttony began.
The Viaduct Tavern, EC1
0.3 km
Step into a lavish Victorian gin palace where London’s legal history and ghostly tales converge beneath ornate ceilings and historic cellars.
Cloth Fair
0.3 km
Step into medieval London on Cloth Fair, a historic street where merchants once traded fabric and the city’s oldest houses still stand.
St Mary Aldermanbury Garden
0.3 km
Historic garden marking the site of Wren’s St Mary Aldermanbury church, linking Shakespeare, Churchill, and transatlantic heritage in the heart of London.
Holy Sepulchre Church
0.3 km
Discover Holy Sepulchre London, the largest City parish church, famed as the National Musicians’ Church with centuries of history and vibrant worship.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
St Giles Cripplegate
0.3 km
Explore St Giles Cripplegate, a historic Anglican church in London's Barbican, rich in culture and architectural beauty, perfect for history lovers.
One New Change
0.4 km
Discover premier shopping, dining, and stunning rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral in the heart of London's financial district.
The City Of London Police Museum
0.4 km
Explore the rich history of London's oldest police force within the City’s historic Guildhall complex.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.4 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
0.5 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.1 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
14 Hills
1.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
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.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.4 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
George
1.5 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
La Dame de Pic London
1.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Sarastro
1.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.7 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Lyle's
1.7 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.5 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
1 Poultry
0.6 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
London Silver Vaults
1.0 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Twinings - The Strand
1.1 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.2 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.2 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
1.2 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Borough Yards
1.3 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Exmouth Market
1.3 km
Discover Exmouth Market, London’s vibrant street of eclectic eateries, lively bars, and independent shops in the heart of Clerkenwell.
The Store X
1.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
not just a shop
1.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Sugar And Style
1.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Unique Gifts
1.3 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.7 km
Discover Ye Olde Mitre, a hidden Tudor-era pub in Holborn where history, legend, and cozy charm converge in a secret London alley.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.8 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Old Bank of England
1.0 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Aviary
1.0 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.0 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.1 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.1 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Lyaness
1.1 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Bootlegger
1.1 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Dirty Dicks
1.3 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Old Fountain
1.3 km
Historic family-run freehouse in Old Street, London, famed for award-winning ales, hearty British food, and a stylish rooftop terrace.
Nightjar Shoreditch
1.3 km
Step into Nightjar Shoreditch, a hidden gem where Prohibition-era cocktails meet live jazz in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
London Best Night Clubs
0.8 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Steel Yard
0.9 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
1.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
1.6 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Carwash Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
1.6 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.
Trafik
1.6 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.7 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Roxy
2.0 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
2.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Cirque Du Soul
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.1 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
2.1 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
