Sotheby's London: Historic Epicenter of Global Art Auctions
Sotheby’s London: The historic heart of global art auctions since 1744, blending tradition with innovation at New Bond Street.
Located at 34-35 New Bond Street in London’s prestigious Mayfair district, Sotheby’s London is the world’s oldest major auction house, founded in 1744. Originally specializing in rare books and manuscripts, it evolved into a global powerhouse for fine art, antiques, and luxury collectibles. The iconic building, steeped in history, has been a hub for landmark auctions and continues to shape the international art market with innovative sales and a strong digital presence.
A brief summary to Sotheby's London
- 34-35 New Bond St, London, W1A 2AA, GB
- +442072935000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the auction schedule in advance to experience live bidding events and view featured collections.
- Explore the building’s historical features, including the iconic Sekhmet bust above the entrance.
- Visit during weekdays when the auction house is fully operational for a more immersive experience.
- Take advantage of guided tours or special exhibitions if available to deepen your understanding of Sotheby’s legacy.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Bond Street Station, served by the Central and Jubilee lines. From there, it is a 5-7 minute walk to 34-35 New Bond Street. Tube services run frequently, with tickets costing approximately £2.50-£5 depending on the time and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near New Bond Street, including routes 7, 98, and 390. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day. A single fare is around £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from £10 to £25. Note that parking in Mayfair is limited and expensive.
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Walking
If you are staying in central London, walking to Sotheby’s through Mayfair offers a pleasant urban stroll of 15-30 minutes, with flat terrain and accessible pavements.
Sotheby's London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sotheby's London
Founding Legacy and Early Specialization
Sotheby’s London was founded on March 11, 1744, by Samuel Baker, a London bookseller and publisher. Its first auction featured rare books from the library of Sir John Stanley, marking the beginning of an institution that would become synonymous with prestige and expertise in auctioneering. Initially, Sotheby’s focused on selling valuable manuscripts, books, and library collections from notable aristocratic estates, building a reputation for meticulous cataloguing and authoritative sales. After Baker’s death in 1778, the business passed to his nephew John Sotheby and partner George Leigh, whose auctioneering skills helped expand the firm’s influence.Transition to Fine Art and Mayfair Headquarters
In 1917, Sotheby’s moved to its current address at 34-35 New Bond Street, Mayfair, shifting its focus from books to fine art and decorative objects. The building itself carries a rich history, having housed the galleries of French artist Gustave Doré and other establishments before becoming Sotheby’s home. An ancient Egyptian bust of the lion-goddess Sekhmet, Sotheby’s unofficial mascot, adorns the entrance, symbolizing the house’s enduring legacy. During the interwar years, Sotheby’s became renowned for its skill in staging rapid onsite sales of British country house contents, earning its specialist team the nickname “The Flying Squad.”Global Expansion and Market Leadership
Sotheby’s broke new ground by becoming the first international auction house, opening its New York office in 1955 and acquiring Parke-Bernet, the largest American fine art auction house, in 1964. This expansion established Sotheby’s as a dominant force in the global art market. It continued pioneering innovations such as the introduction of the ‘Evening Sale’ format in 1958 and the use of satellite technology in the 1960s to enable simultaneous bidding between London and New York. Over the decades, Sotheby’s broadened its reach to Hong Kong, Russia, India, France, and China, reflecting its commitment to connecting collectors worldwide.Modern Innovations and Digital Transformation
Under the ownership of entrepreneur Patrick Drahi since 2019, Sotheby’s has embraced digital transformation, developing hybrid online auction formats and exploring emerging markets such as NFTs and the metaverse. This forward-looking approach ensures Sotheby’s remains at the forefront of the auction industry, blending centuries-old tradition with cutting-edge technology. The London location continues to host prestigious auctions, showcasing masterpieces from Old Masters to contemporary artists, maintaining its status as a cultural and commercial landmark.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Sotheby’s London experience a blend of historic grandeur and dynamic energy. The elegant auction rooms echo with the legacy of landmark sales, while the presence of expert staff and rich art collections create an immersive environment for art lovers and collectors. The building’s architecture and symbolic features, such as the Sekhmet bust, offer a tangible connection to the house’s storied past, making it a unique destination for those interested in art, history, and culture.Enduring Influence and Cultural Significance
Sotheby’s London stands as a testament to over 275 years of auctioneering excellence and cultural stewardship. Its role in shaping the art market, facilitating the sale of some of the world’s most treasured works, and pioneering auction innovations underscores its global importance. The location remains a beacon for collectors, artists, and historians, embodying a rich heritage that continues to evolve in the contemporary art world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
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Discover the Allies sculpture in London, a powerful tribute to the bond between Churchill and Roosevelt, symbolizing historic unity and strength.
Savile Row
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Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Discover the iconic Ziggy Stardust album cover location in London, a must-visit cultural landmark for music lovers and fans of David Bowie.
Liberty’s clock
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Liberty's Clock, an iconic landmark in Carnaby, London, embodying the city’s rich heritage and architectural beauty.
3 Savile Row
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Explore Savile Row, London’s iconic destination for bespoke tailoring and timeless elegance in the heart of the fashion district.
Burlington House
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Burlington House, home to London's prestigious art and geological institutions.
The Photographers' Gallery
0.5 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
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Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, a serene landmark steeped in culture in the heart of London.
Grosvenor Sq
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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Grosvenor Square, a lush green oasis in the heart of London's vibrant Mayfair district.
Roosevelt Memorial
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Discover the Roosevelt Memorial in London, a serene monument celebrating the legacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
38 Grosvenor Sq
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Discover the historical elegance of Grosvenor Square, a serene oasis in the heart of London, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich culture.
Beau Brummell Statue
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Explore the Beau Brummell Statue on Jermyn Street, a tribute to the fashion icon of Regency England, blending history and elegance in London's vibrant atmosphere.
St James's Piccadilly
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church offering peace, art, and history in London's vibrant heart.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant energy of Piccadilly Circus, London's iconic crossroads, brimming with culture, entertainment, and captivating sights.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.7 km
Experience the iconic Eros Fountain at Piccadilly Circus, a historical landmark embodying London's vibrant culture and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
St George's Church, Hanover Square
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Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St George's Church in Hanover Square, a must-visit landmark in London's vibrant cultural scene.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
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Discover The Blind Pig at Mary's in London - a vibrant bar offering innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Handel Hendrix House
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Discover the intertwined legacies of Handel and Hendrix in a historic London home filled with music, culture, and artistic inspiration.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
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Explore the forefront of contemporary art at Sprueth Magers Gallery in London, featuring innovative exhibitions and a vibrant artistic atmosphere.
The Royal Institution
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Discover The Royal Institution, a premier museum and event venue in London that celebrates science, innovation, and education through captivating exhibitions and lectures.
See Your City
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Discover London's magic with See Your City: expertly guided tours and experiences that unveil the essence of England's vibrant capital.
Hamleys
0.3 km
Discover the magic of Hamleys, London's iconic toy store, where imagination comes to life with seven floors of endless fun and excitement.
Berkeley Square
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Berkeley Square, a historic garden in London, ideal for relaxation and leisure amongst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
British Tours
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Discover the heart of London with British Tours, offering personalized experiences to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Clermont Club
0.3 km
Discover the elegance of Clermont Club in London, where luxury meets excitement with gaming, dining, and vibrant nightlife.
The London Palladium
0.4 km
Discover the magic of live performances at The London Palladium, a historic theatre that hosts the best in musicals, concerts, and events in the heart of London.
Fashion Space Gallery
0.4 km
Experience the fusion of art and fashion at London's Fashion Space Gallery, where creativity knows no bounds and inspiration awaits.
Spirit of Soho Mural
0.4 km
Explore the Spirit of Soho Mural in London, a vibrant celebration of art and culture in the heart of Soho, capturing the essence of this eclectic neighborhood.
Golden Square
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty and historic charm of Golden Square, a hidden gem in the heart of London perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
0.5 km
Discover the peace and beauty of the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception in Mayfair—an architectural wonder and spiritual sanctuary in London.
Essential places to dine
sketch
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Discover sketch: A fusion of culinary excellence and artistic expression in London's vibrant dining scene.
Little Social
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Experience the essence of modern European cuisine at Little Social, where small plates delight your palate in an inviting atmosphere.
NOPI
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Discover the unique fusion of Mediterranean flavors at NOPI, London's premier destination for exquisite dining experiences.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.5 km
Experience the opulence of French-British cuisine at Bob Bob Ricard Soho, where every meal feels like a celebration.
Social Eating House
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Experience the best of modern European cuisine at Social Eating House in London - where every dish tells a story.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
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Discover the elegance of modern European cuisine at Andrew Edmunds Restaurant in London's Soho district, where every dish tells a story.
Apricity Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine at Apricity Restaurant in London, where sustainability meets exceptional dining.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mele e Pere in London's vibrant Soho district; where tradition meets contemporary flair.
Quaglino's
0.6 km
Experience exquisite European cuisine and vibrant live music at Quaglino's, London's luxurious fine dining gem in St. James's.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine at Ormer Mayfair Restaurant in London - where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover modern Indian cuisine at Kricket Soho, where traditional flavors meet contemporary dining in London's vibrant heart.
Blanchette
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Discover the charm of authentic French dining at Blanchette in London's vibrant Soho district.
HIDE
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Discover the epitome of fine dining at HIDE in London, where modern European cuisine meets stunning city views in an elegant setting.
Bantof
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Discover the exquisite flavors of modern European cuisine paired with captivating art at Bantof in London.
Blacklock Soho
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Discover Blacklock Soho: London's premier chophouse offering mouthwatering steaks in a chic yet cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Liberty London
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Explore Liberty London, a historic department store offering luxury fashion, beauty, and unique gifts in a stunning Tudor-style setting.
Canvas Collection
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and artistic treasures at Canvas Collection, a gem in London's vibrant Carnaby district.
Beyond Retro Soho
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and accessories at Beyond Retro Soho, London's premier destination for sustainable fashion.
Burlington Arcade
0.5 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
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Explore Closet Case in Soho, London for unique men's fashion that blends style with individuality in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Pop Up 38
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Explore Pop Up 38, London's trendy boutique for fashion-forward tourists seeking unique clothing and accessories that reflect the city's vibrant style.
House of secrets
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Explore the House of Secrets: a captivating gift shop in London, brimming with unique replicas and intriguing curiosities that tell a story.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
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Explore Cool Britannia on Oxford Street for unique British souvenirs and gifts that capture the essence of the UK.
Glassworks London - Soho
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Explore the elegance of contemporary women’s fashion and accessories at Glassworks London, an essential stop in Soho for stylish shoppers.
Machine-A
0.7 km
Explore the cutting-edge of fashion at Machine-A, London's premier boutique for emerging designers and unique clothing.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant JW Anderson boutique in Soho, where contemporary British fashion meets exquisite craftsmanship and unique style.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Souvenir Shop
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Explore the Souvenir Shop in London for unique gifts and memorable keepsakes that embody the spirit of this iconic city.
La Boutik
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Explore La Boutik: London's premier destination for exclusive designer clothing and unparalleled shopping experience.
M&M'S London
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Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cahoots London
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Experience the unique charm of Cahoots London, a cocktail bar that brings the nostalgia of 1940s London to life with exquisite drinks and vibrant ambiance.
Disrepute - Soho
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Experience the art of mixology at Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication.
Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
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Experience the luxurious charm of Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar, where exquisite drinks meet an enchanting atmosphere.
The Argyll Arms
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Discover The Argyll Arms, a historic London pub blending tradition and modern comfort, perfect for a relaxing drink or meal.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
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Discover The Blind Pig at Social Eating House, where innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere come together in the heart of London.
Below
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Experience the unique cocktail culture of London at Below, a stylish cocktail bar in the heart of Piccadilly, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Duke of Argyll
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Discover the Duke of Argyll, a quintessential London pub offering classic fare, local ales, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Thin White Duke
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NQ64 Soho
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Experience the best of London nightlife at NQ64 Soho, where cocktail culture meets retro gaming for an unforgettable night out.
Basement Sate
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Discover Basement Sate, a vibrant cocktail bar in London, offering creative drinks and a chic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Punch Room
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Punch Room: A sophisticated cocktail bar in London offering expertly crafted drinks and an intimate ambiance at the luxurious EDITION Hotel.
Henson's Bar and Social
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Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of London at Henson's Bar and Social, where unique drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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Experience the art of mixology at Opium Cocktail Bar in Soho, where innovative cocktails meet an enchanting atmosphere.
The Black Book
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Discover The Black Book in Soho, London's premier wine bar offering exquisite wines and delightful small plates in a chic atmosphere.
Bar Soho
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Soho, a premier cocktail bar in the heart of London, known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
- Boutique
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
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
