Sotheby's London: A Historic Hub of Global Art Auctions
Sotheby's London: The world’s oldest auction house blending historic prestige with global art innovation since 1744.
Located at 34-35 New Bond Street in London's prestigious Mayfair district, Sotheby's London is the world’s oldest and one of the most renowned auction houses. Founded in 1744 by Samuel Baker, it began with rare books and manuscripts before expanding into fine art, jewelry, and luxury collectibles. The iconic New Bond Street location has been Sotheby’s London headquarters since 1917, serving as a central hub for landmark auctions and pioneering innovations in the art auction world.
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 catch live sales or previews of upcoming lots.
- Explore the historic New Bond Street galleries to appreciate the building’s art and architectural heritage.
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and better access to expert consultations.
- Use public transport to reach Mayfair, as parking is limited and the area is busy.
- Look out for special exhibitions and events that showcase rare and unique collections.
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 on the Central or Jubilee lines, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Sotheby’s. Trains run frequently, and single fares cost around £2.50–£5 depending on ticket type and time.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes serve New Bond Street, including routes 7, 98, and 390. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you directly at 34-35 New Bond Street. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 upwards.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Mayfair or Soho, walking to Sotheby’s is pleasant and takes 10-20 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The area is pedestrian-friendly but busy, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Sotheby's London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Sotheby's London
Origins Rooted in Rare Books and Manuscripts
Sotheby’s was established in London on March 11, 1744, by Samuel Baker, a bookseller and publisher. Its inaugural auction featured rare books from the library of Sir John Stanley, marking the beginning of a legacy centered on expertise in scarce and valuable literature. Early partnerships, notably with George Leigh, helped build Sotheby’s reputation for authoritative catalogues and expertly conducted sales. The auction house’s name emerged after Baker’s death in 1778 when his nephew John Sotheby took over, guiding the firm’s expansion beyond books into coins, medals, and prints.The Move to New Bond Street and Artistic Expansion
In 1917, Sotheby’s relocated from Wellington Street to 34-35 New Bond Street, a prestigious address in Mayfair, London’s art and luxury district. This move symbolized its transition from a book auctioneer to a major player in the fine art market. The New Bond Street building itself has a rich history, having housed the French artist Gustave Doré’s galleries and other notable tenants. An ancient Egyptian bust of the lion-goddess Sekhmet, Sotheby’s unofficial mascot, was installed above the entrance, embodying the house’s blend of tradition and mystique.Innovation and Global Expansion
Throughout the 20th century, Sotheby’s expanded its offerings to include paintings, decorative arts, and jewelry. The firm pioneered the ‘Evening Sale’ format in 1958, transforming how high-profile art auctions were conducted. In 1955, Sotheby’s opened its first international office in New York, and in 1964 acquired Parke-Bernet, America’s largest fine art auction house, solidifying its global presence. Subsequent expansions included offices and salesrooms in Hong Kong, Paris, Russia, India, and China, making Sotheby’s the first international auction house in many of these markets.Resilience Through History and Modern Leadership
Sotheby’s London endured challenges including World War II, during which its basement served as an air-raid shelter. The company’s agility was exemplified by its “Flying Squad,” a specialist team adept at conducting swift onsite sales of British country house contents. In recent decades, Sotheby’s has embraced digital transformation, launching online auctions and exploring new frontiers such as NFTs and the metaverse under the ownership of entrepreneur Patrick Drahi since 2019.The Experience at New Bond Street Today
Today, Sotheby’s London remains a beacon for collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. Its New Bond Street galleries host auctions spanning centuries of art history, from Old Masters to contemporary works. The atmosphere combines historic grandeur with cutting-edge technology, reflecting Sotheby’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Visitors can witness the auction process, explore exhibitions, and appreciate the architectural and cultural heritage of this iconic institution.Legacy and Cultural Significance
With over 275 years of history, Sotheby’s London is more than an auction house; it is a cultural landmark that has shaped the global art market. Its pioneering spirit, expert knowledge, and prestigious sales have made it synonymous with luxury, rarity, and artistic excellence. The New Bond Street location stands as a testament to Sotheby’s enduring influence and its role in uniting collectors with world-class works of art.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
3 Savile Row
0.3 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Burlington House
0.4 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.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.5 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.5 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.6 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.6 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St James's Piccadilly
0.6 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.7 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.7 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
0.7 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.7 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Pickering Pl
0.8 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.8 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.8 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bond St
0.1 km
Discover Bond Street, London’s iconic luxury shopping street where history, high fashion, and exclusive boutiques converge in elegant Mayfair.
St George's Church, Hanover Square
0.1 km
Historic Georgian church in Mayfair, famed for its architecture, Handel connections, and vibrant musical heritage.
Fenwick
0.2 km
Fenwick Bond Street: A historic London department store blending timeless elegance with modern fashion, now closed but forever iconic.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.2 km
An intimate bronze sculpture of Churchill and Roosevelt sharing a bench, symbolizing 50 years of peace and the enduring UK-US alliance on London’s New Bond Street.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Where Handel composed Messiah and Jimi Hendrix made his only London home – a unique double portrait of musical genius in Mayfair.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
0.2 km
A leading contemporary art gallery in London’s West End showcasing innovative exhibitions by international artists.
Savile Row
0.2 km
Savile Row, London’s legendary street, is the global heart of bespoke tailoring, where tradition meets timeless style and craftsmanship.
The Royal Institution
0.2 km
Explore centuries of groundbreaking science and iconic lectures at London’s historic Royal Institution, home to Faraday’s legacy and the famous Christmas Lectures.
See Your City
0.2 km
Discover London's magic with See Your City: expertly guided tours and experiences that unveil the essence of England's vibrant capital.
Regent St.
0.3 km
Discover the timeless elegance and world-class shopping of Regent Street, London’s premier mile of style and culture in the heart of the West End.
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
A timeless Georgian garden square in Mayfair, blending historic grandeur, iconic plane trees, and cultural elegance in central London.
Liberty’s clock
0.3 km
Discover Liberty’s Clock, a charming emblem on London’s iconic Tudor revival department store blending historic craftsmanship with vibrant design heritage.
British Tours
0.3 km
Discover the heart of London with British Tours, offering personalized experiences to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Essential places to dine
sketch
0.2 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Little Social
0.2 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
NOPI
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
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.
Social Eating House
0.5 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.5 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Apricity Restaurant
0.6 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Quaglino's
0.6 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Blanchette
0.6 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
HIDE
0.6 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Bantof
0.6 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LONGCHAMP
0.0 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Canvas Collection
0.4 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Beyond Retro Soho
0.4 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.6 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.6 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Floris London
0.6 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.6 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Shepherd Market
0.6 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Pop Up 38
0.6 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.6 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
House of secrets
0.6 km
Step into House of Secrets on Oxford Street and discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and enchanting souvenirs in the heart of London.
Jermyn St
0.6 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
Berwick St
0.6 km
London's legendary market where 18th-century tradition meets contemporary street food culture and vinyl heritage.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.6 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cahoots London
0.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 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.
The Argyll Arms
0.4 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Below
0.6 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
0.6 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
The Thin White Duke
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
NQ64 Soho
0.7 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Basement Sate
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Village Soho
0.7 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Duke Of Wellington
0.7 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Punch Room
0.8 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Nellie Dean
0.8 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.8 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.8 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.3 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
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.
The Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
0.5 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.
Sunset night club
0.5 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.
The Scotch of St James
0.7 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
St Moritz Club
0.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Bordello London
0.7 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
0.7 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.7 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
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Luxe Club
0.8 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.8 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
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
- Weekend Getaway
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
