Whitehall Gardens: A Historic Riverside Oasis in Central London
Tranquil Victorian riverside garden with historic statues and scenic Thames views in the heart of London.
Whitehall Gardens, established in 1875 along Victoria Embankment, is a tranquil formal garden in central London. Nestled beside the River Thames, it features manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and mature trees, offering peaceful riverside walks and scenic views of the South Bank. The garden is dotted with statues commemorating notable British figures and preserves a fragment of the historic Palace of Whitehall grounds, making it a serene retreat amid the city bustle.
A brief summary to Whitehall Gardens
- Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2HE, GB
- +442076412390
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and a quieter atmosphere.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the benches or grassy areas overlooking the Thames.
- Look out for statues of William Tyndale and other historic figures scattered throughout the gardens.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Trafalgar Square or the South Bank for a full day of sightseeing.
- Check for occasional community events or seasonal flower displays to enhance your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Embankment Station, located about a 3-minute walk from Whitehall Gardens. The station is served by the Bakerloo, Northern, Circle, and District lines, offering frequent service throughout the day. Accessibility features include step-free access from street to platform.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Victoria Embankment, including routes 6, 9, 11, and 15. Bus stops are within a 5 to 10-minute walk of Whitehall Gardens. Fares start at approximately £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Walking
From Trafalgar Square, a pleasant 10 to 15-minute flat walk along Northumberland Avenue and the Victoria Embankment brings you to Whitehall Gardens. The route is fully accessible with paved paths and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Whitehall Gardens 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 Whitehall Gardens
A Garden Rooted in Royal and Victorian Legacy
Whitehall Gardens occupies a compact yet historically rich space on the Victoria Embankment, created in 1875 as part of the Victorian-era landscaping efforts to beautify London’s riverfront. The gardens stand on grounds once belonging to the Palace of Whitehall, the main residence of English monarchs from 1530 until a devastating fire in 1698. Though much of the palace was lost, Whitehall Gardens preserves a fragment of this royal heritage, offering visitors a tangible link to London’s regal past.Design and Natural Beauty Along the Thames
The garden’s layout embodies Victorian ideals of formal design, featuring manicured lawns, vibrant seasonal flowerbeds, and tree-lined walkways shaded by mature London plane trees, lime trees, and exotic trees of heaven. Tropical palm trees add a unique flair, evoking a Mediterranean ambiance amid the urban setting. The garden’s riverside position affords picturesque views across the Thames to the lively South Bank, enhancing its appeal as a peaceful urban refuge.Art, Monuments, and Hidden Stories
Whitehall Gardens is home to several statues honoring significant British historical figures, including William Tyndale, Sir Henry Bartle Frere, and General Sir James Outram. These sculptures are thoughtfully placed within grassed islands, inviting contemplation amidst the greenery. The gardens also feature memorials such as the Fleet Air Arm Memorial, enriching the cultural tapestry of the space. Nearby, the Ministry of Defence Main Building, once known as the Whitehall Gardens Building, stands as a Grade I listed architectural landmark, adding to the area’s historical significance.A Welcoming Urban Sanctuary for All Visitors
With flat, paved pathways and wheelchair accessibility, Whitehall Gardens is designed for ease of exploration. Benches scattered throughout provide inviting spots for relaxation, picnics, or quiet reading sessions. The garden’s calm atmosphere contrasts with the bustling city nearby, making it a favored spot for contemplative walks or casual recreation, including a ping pong table that adds a playful element. Seasonal flower displays and occasional community events enliven the garden, fostering a sense of local engagement.Connectivity and Surrounding Attractions
Whitehall Gardens benefits from a prime central London location, within walking distance of Embankment and Westminster underground stations. It forms part of the larger Victoria Embankment Gardens network, a series of small, well-maintained green spaces along the Thames. Visitors can easily combine a visit here with nearby landmarks such as Trafalgar Square, the South Bank, and the historic Banqueting House, enriching their cultural itinerary.Preserving Nature and Urban Wildlife
Designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, Whitehall Gardens contributes to urban biodiversity. Its mature trees and varied plantings support local wildlife, offering a green haven amid London’s dense cityscape. The garden’s careful maintenance balances historical preservation with ecological sensitivity, ensuring it remains a sustainable and cherished green space for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gurkha Soldier Statue
0.1 km
A solemn tribute to the fearless Gurkha soldiers guarding Britain’s legacy on Horse Guards Avenue.
Royal Tank Regiment Memorial Statue
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring the bravery and teamwork of the Royal Tank Regiment’s WWII Comet tank crews.
Chindit Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
George Duke of Cambridge statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Prince George, Duke of Cambridge, standing proudly on Whitehall amidst London’s historic military heart.
Dover House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
The Women of World War II
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
The Cenotaph
0.3 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
10 Downing Street
0.3 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
10 Downing St
0.3 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Old Admiralty Building
0.4 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Eleanor Cross
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
King Charles Street Arch
0.4 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Admiralty Arch
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
County Hall
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Boat Show Comedy Club
0.1 km
Experience the best of London's nightlife with laughter and drinks at The Boat Show Comedy Club, set in the unique Tattershall Castle.
Banqueting House
0.2 km
Explore London's Banqueting House, a Palladian masterpiece with Rubens' ceiling and the historic site of King Charles I’s execution.
Embankment Pl
0.2 km
A sleek postmodern complex blending riverside charm with central London’s vibrant urban pulse.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.2 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
Horse Guards Parade
0.3 km
Historic ceremonial parade ground in London’s Whitehall, famed for royal pageantry and military tradition since the 16th century.
Embankment station
0.3 km
Historic and bustling central London Tube station connecting four major lines near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
The Ghost Bus Tours
0.3 km
Dark comedy meets London history on a theatrical double-decker bus tour through the capital's most sinister stories.
The Household Cavalry Museum
0.3 km
Explore the living history and pageantry of Britain’s elite Household Cavalry at their historic London headquarters.
Hungerford Bridge and Golden Jubilee Bridges
0.3 km
Iconic Thames crossing blending Victorian railway heritage with sleek cable-stayed footbridges and stunning panoramic London views.
Benjamin Franklin House
0.3 km
Step inside the only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin and experience 18th-century London through immersive tours and rich history.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.3 km
Experience the charm of London at Gordon's Wine Bar, the city's oldest wine bar, offering a delightful selection of wines and traditional British cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Victoria Embankment Gardens
0.3 km
A historic and tranquil riverside garden in central London, blending Victorian heritage with peaceful green spaces and cultural memorials.
The Queen’s Walk
0.3 km
A scenic riverside promenade along the Thames connecting London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural hubs.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.3 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
York Watergate
0.3 km
Explore York Watergate, a serene historical landmark on the River Thames, rich in maritime heritage and stunning views perfect for tourists.
Essential places to dine
The Garden
0.2 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.2 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.2 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
wagamama southbank
0.4 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Strada Southbank
0.4 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.5 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
OKAN South Bank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.5 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Archduke
0.5 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Troia Southbank
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Wahaca Southbank
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Rules
0.6 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts of London
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.3 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.4 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.5 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.5 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Browns of London
0.6 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.6 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Floral Street
0.7 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.7 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.7 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
The Moomin Shop London
0.7 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Unique Britain
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Spy Bar
0.2 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
0.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Champagne Bar
0.4 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.5 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.5 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.5 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.5 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.5 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.6 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
American Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.6 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Beaufort Bar
0.6 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Heaven
0.3 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.
TSQ Club
0.5 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Cirque Du Soul
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.6 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.6 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Proud Late
0.6 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
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.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Luxe Club
0.8 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Café de Paris
0.8 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Ivy Club
0.9 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Scotch of St James
1.0 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
