Spital Square: A Georgian Jewel in London's Historic Spitalfields
Discover Spital Square, a serene Georgian enclave in vibrant Spitalfields, where history and culture weave together in East London's heart.
Spital Square is a historic Georgian square nestled in the heart of London's Spitalfields district. Known for its elegant 18th-century architecture and rich Huguenot heritage, it offers a glimpse into the silk-weaving past of East London. The square is home to No. 37 Spital Square, the last surviving Georgian mansion on the square, built by prosperous silk merchant Peter Ogier in the 1740s. Surrounded by vibrant markets and cultural landmarks, Spital Square blends history with the dynamic spirit of modern London.
A brief summary to Spital Square
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit No. 37 Spital Square to admire authentic Georgian architecture and learn about the Huguenot silk-weaving heritage.
- Explore nearby Old Spitalfields Market for a mix of food, crafts, and contemporary culture.
- Take time to stroll the surrounding streets named after Huguenot figures and silk-weaving trades for historical context.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with market activity.
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 Liverpool Street station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk to Spital Square. Liverpool Street is served by Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. Typical fare ranges from £2.50 to £5.00 depending on ticket type.
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London Overground
Use Shoreditch High Street station on the London Overground line, about a 5-10 minute walk to Spital Square. Overground fares typically range from £2.50 to £4.50.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Spitalfields area, including routes 8, 26, 35, and 47. Bus stops are within a 5-minute walk from Spital Square. Single fares cost £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Walking
From Liverpool Street station, a flat and accessible walk of about 10-15 minutes through historic streets leads to Spital Square, suitable for most visitors and wheelchair users.
Spital Square 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 Spital Square
Legacy of Spitalfields and the Origins of Spital Square
Spital Square sits within the historic Spitalfields area in East London, a district shaped by waves of immigration and industry. The name Spitalfields derives from the medieval St Mary Spital priory, a hospital and lodging for travelers established in 1197. Over centuries, the area evolved from marginal land outside the City walls into a thriving center for silk weaving, especially after the arrival of Huguenot refugees fleeing religious persecution in France during the late 17th century. These skilled artisans brought prosperity and architectural refinement to the square and its surroundings.Architectural Significance and No. 37 Spital Square
The centerpiece of Spital Square is No. 37, the last remaining Georgian mansion on the square, constructed in the 1740s by Peter Ogier, a wealthy Huguenot silk merchant. This Grade II listed building exemplifies Georgian elegance with its balanced proportions and period details, reflecting the affluence and craftsmanship of the silk trade era. The mansion served both as Ogier's family home and business base, symbolizing the intertwining of domestic life and industry that characterized Spitalfields at the time.The Cultural Tapestry of Spitalfields Markets and Streets
Surrounding Spital Square are several famous markets such as Old Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane Market, and Petticoat Lane Market, each contributing to the area's vibrant multicultural atmosphere. The streets nearby bear names reflecting the Huguenot legacy, including Fournier Street and Weaver Street, which once housed silk weavers’ workshops with large attic windows designed to maximize natural light. This rich cultural fabric continues to evolve, making Spital Square a focal point for heritage and contemporary urban life.Historical Layers and Social Evolution
Spitalfields has witnessed significant historical events, from its monastic origins to its role as a hub for immigrant communities. The area also has darker associations with the Jack the Ripper murders in the late 19th century, with victims residing nearby. Despite such shadows, the district has continually reinvented itself, balancing preservation with regeneration. Spital Square today stands as a testament to this resilience, offering a serene enclave amid the bustling East End.Experiencing Spital Square Today
Visitors to Spital Square can appreciate its tranquil Georgian architecture set against the dynamic backdrop of Spitalfields. The square’s atmosphere invites reflection on the area's layered history while enjoying proximity to lively markets, eateries, and cultural venues. The blend of historic charm and contemporary vibrancy makes it a unique destination for those interested in London's social and architectural heritage.Conservation and Legacy
Efforts to preserve Spital Square, including the maintenance of No. 37 and its railings, highlight the importance of safeguarding London's architectural history. The square’s conservation ensures that future generations can experience a tangible connection to the Huguenot silk-weaving legacy and the broader story of East London's development. Spital Square remains a cherished landmark embodying the spirit of community, craftsmanship, and cultural diversity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northumbria University - London
0.3 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
182 Bishopsgate
0.3 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
St Christopher's Inn Liverpool Street
0.5 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.5 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Arnold Circus
0.6 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.7 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.7 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
Shoreditch Church
0.7 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
0.8 km
Discover Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a historical cemetery in London, offering a peaceful escape and the final resting place of literary legends.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
0.8 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Lloyd's of London
0.9 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Threadneedle St
0.9 km
Historic Threadneedle Street: London’s iconic financial artery, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant intersection of commerce and culture at Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange in London's financial district.
Cornhill Fountain
1.0 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
1.0 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dennis Severs' House
0.1 km
Step into a candlelit Georgian townhouse and journey through centuries of Spitalfields’ silk-weaving heritage in a uniquely immersive theatrical museum.
Spitalfields Charnel House
0.1 km
Discover the haunting medieval charnel house beneath Bishop’s Square, a rare glimpse into London’s past where thousands of souls rest beneath the modern city.
Spitalfields Market
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of history, art, and global flavors at Spitalfields Market, East London's iconic cultural and culinary hotspot.
Old Spitalfields Market
0.2 km
Discover East London's vibrant blend of history, artisan crafts, and global street food beneath a stunning Victorian glass roof.
Sclater Street Market
0.3 km
Discover eclectic vintage finds, street food delights, and creative energy at Sclater Street Market in London’s dynamic East End.
Shoreditch
0.3 km
East London's creative playground where street art, markets, and nightlife collide in authentic, ever-evolving style.
Commercial St
0.3 km
A vibrant East London artery blending historic industry, lively markets, and evolving urban culture between Shoreditch and Whitechapel.
Christ Church Spitalfields
0.3 km
Discover the architectural marvel and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of London.
Village Underground
0.3 km
A vibrant East London cultural hotspot blending live music, street art, and creative community in a historic warehouse setting.
The Truman Brewery Markets
0.4 km
A vibrant East London cultural and culinary hotspot blending vintage markets, global street food, and creative community spirit in a historic brewery setting.
Dray Walk
0.4 km
Discover East London’s vibrant art scene at Dray Walk Gallery, a dynamic creative space within the iconic Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane.
Fashion St
0.4 km
Historic Fashion Street in Spitalfields blends East London’s rich past with contemporary creative life and urban renewal.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
0.4 km
Explore the UK's largest vintage market in East London, a vibrant hub for retro fashion, unique collectibles, and cultural energy seven days a week.
Upmarket Brick Lane Food Hall
0.4 km
Discover a lively indoor market in East London offering diverse global street food and a vibrant cultural atmosphere at Brick Lane.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at The Cocktail Club near Old Street, a must-visit for nightlife seekers in London.
Essential places to dine
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.3 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.
Lyle's
0.4 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
The Clove Club
0.7 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
0.7 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
14 Hills
0.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Brawn
1.1 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
La Dame de Pic London
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Madison
1.4 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
1.6 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
1.6 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Da Terra Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Restaurant Story
2.0 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
George
2.0 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.4 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Middlesex Textiles
0.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Luna & Curious
0.7 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
The Royal Exchange
1.0 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Barbican Shop
1.1 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
1.2 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Traders Gate
1.3 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Tower of London Shop
1.4 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
One New Change
1.4 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Smithfield Market
1.6 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Hay's Galleria
1.7 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.8 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Unique Gifts
1.8 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.2 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.3 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
0.3 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Discount Suit Company
0.5 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Aviary
0.5 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Bell
0.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.6 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Ballie Ballerson London
0.6 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
0.8 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
0.8 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.8 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Craft Beer Co. Old Street
0.8 km
A vibrant London pub offering a top-tier selection of craft beers served with expert care in a casual, retro setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basing House - Shoreditch
0.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Steel Yard
1.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
London Best Night Clubs
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
E1
1.7 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Ministry of Sound
2.9 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Carwash Nightclub
3.0 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
3.0 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
3.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Cirque Du Soul
3.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Corsica Studios
3.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Roxy
3.4 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
3.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Heaven
3.5 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
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly