Smith Square Hall
A masterpiece of English Baroque architecture, Smith Square Hall is a vibrant concert venue in the heart of Westminster, blending historic charm with world-class music.
Smith Square Hall, formerly St John's Smith Square, is a Grade I listed concert hall in Westminster, London, renowned for its English Baroque architecture and exceptional acoustics. Originally built as a church in 1728, it was restored after WWII and now hosts a vibrant programme of classical and contemporary music. The venue is celebrated for its unique atmosphere, historic charm, and central location near the Houses of Parliament.
A brief summary to Sinfonia Smith Square
- Smith Square, London, SW1P 3HA, GB
- +442072221061
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the concert schedule in advance, as performances can sell out quickly, especially for popular events.
- Visit the café in the crypt for a unique experience and a chance to relax before or after a concert.
- Arrive early to explore the historic architecture and take in the atmosphere of the hall.
- Consider attending a lunchtime recital for a more intimate musical experience.
- Look out for special events and festivals, which often feature unique performances and collaborations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the District, Circle, or Jubilee line to Westminster station, then walk for about 5 minutes to reach Smith Square Hall. The walk is flat and accessible, with clear signage.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 11, 24, 53, and 87, stop near Smith Square Hall. The journey from central London typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
From Westminster Abbey or the Houses of Parliament, it’s a pleasant 10-minute walk through the historic streets of Westminster. The route is well-paved and suitable for all visitors.
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Taxi
A taxi from central London to Smith Square Hall takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately £10-15, depending on traffic and time of day.
Sinfonia Smith Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sinfonia Smith Square
Baroque Beauty and Historic Legacy
Smith Square Hall stands as one of the finest examples of English Baroque architecture, designed by Thomas Archer and completed in 1728. Its distinctive four corner towers, often referred to as 'Queen Anne's Footstool', are the result of a legendary anecdote involving Queen Anne herself, who reportedly inspired the design by kicking over her footstool. The building’s grandeur and architectural detail have earned it a Grade I listed status, making it a treasured landmark in central London. Over the centuries, the hall has witnessed dramatic events, including fires and bomb damage during both the suffragette movement and the Blitz, yet it has been meticulously restored to its original splendour.From Church to Concert Hall
Originally consecrated as St John’s Smith Square, the building served as a parish church until it was gutted by fire during the Second World War. For over two decades, it stood as a ruin until Lady Parker of Waddington led a campaign to restore it as a concert venue. The restoration, completed in 1969, returned the hall to its original design and transformed it into one of London’s premier concert spaces. The inaugural recital featured Dame Joan Sutherland and Richard Bonynge, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the hall’s history. Today, Smith Square Hall is home to Sinfonia Smith Square, an orchestra and arts organisation dedicated to nurturing young talent and presenting world-class performances.Music and Atmosphere
The hall’s acoustics are widely praised, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from classical and chamber music to jazz and contemporary works. Its versatile space hosts everything from intimate recitals to large-scale orchestral concerts, attracting internationally renowned artists and local ensembles alike. The atmosphere is both intimate and grand, with the historic architecture providing a unique backdrop for each performance. The venue also features a café in the crypt, adding to its welcoming and inclusive character. Smith Square Hall continues to be a beacon of musical excellence, offering a rich programme of events throughout the year.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
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
- Business Friendly
