Queen Square, Bloomsbury
A historic London garden square, blending Georgian elegance, medical legacy, and tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Queen Square in Bloomsbury is a historic London garden square, dating back to the early 18th century. Originally a prestigious residential address, it is now renowned for its medical institutions, Georgian architecture, and tranquil green space. The square features a statue of Queen Charlotte, a memorial to a World War I Zeppelin bombing, and a Victorian water pump. Its blend of history, calm, and academic prestige makes it a unique urban oasis.
A brief summary to 1 Queen Square
- 1 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AR, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Look for the plaque commemorating the 1915 Zeppelin bombing and the Victorian water pump for a glimpse into the square’s layered history.
- Take time to read the inscriptions on the benches and statues, which add depth to the square’s story.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Northern Line to Euston Square station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through Bloomsbury to reach Queen Square. The route is well signposted and suitable for all visitors.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including the 1, 14, 24, 29, 73, 134, and 390, stop near Queen Square. The journey from central London typically takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
Queen Square is easily accessible on foot from nearby landmarks such as the British Museum or Russell Square. The walk from either location takes about 10–15 minutes and offers a pleasant introduction to Bloomsbury’s historic streets.
1 Queen Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 1 Queen Square
Origins and Royal Connections
Queen Square was laid out in the early 1700s, originally named Devonshire Square before being renamed in honour of Queen Anne. The land was once part of the gardens of Sir Nathaniel Curzon’s house, reflecting the era’s trend of transforming grand estates into fashionable urban developments. The square’s northern side was left open to preserve views of Hampstead and Highgate, a rare luxury for city dwellers at the time. The statue at the northern end, long believed to be Queen Anne, is now known to depict Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III, who was also associated with the square’s history and the nearby Queens Larder pub.Medical and Academic Legacy
Over the 19th century, Queen Square evolved from a residential enclave into a hub for medical and educational institutions. The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, one of the world’s leading centres for neurological care, has its roots here. Other institutions, including schools for the blind and colleges, moved into the square’s grand houses, reshaping its character. The concentration of expertise in medicine and academia continues to define the area, making it a place of both historical and contemporary significance.Tranquil Green Space and Memorials
Today, Queen Square is a peaceful public garden, enclosed by iron railings and dotted with benches, statues, and memorials. The central green offers a rare moment of calm in central London, with inscribed benches and a late Victorian water pump that taps into the same source as the original. A plaque set into the ground commemorates a Zeppelin bombing in 1915, a dramatic event that, remarkably, caused no injuries despite the square’s proximity to hospitals and residents. The atmosphere is one of quiet reflection, a testament to the square’s enduring role as a place of rest and remembrance.Architectural and Cultural Character
The buildings surrounding Queen Square showcase a mix of Georgian elegance and later institutional architecture. St George the Martyr Church, one of the first structures on the square, stands as a reminder of its early days. The square’s evolution from a residential address to a centre of learning and healing is reflected in its varied facades and the stories embedded in its stones. Queen Square remains a living example of London’s ability to blend history, culture, and community in a single, harmonious space.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
0.3 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Statue of Thomas Coram
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A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
190 High Holborn
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A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Denmark St
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Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
1 Soho Place
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Explore 1 Soho Place: A vibrant business park in London's Soho, surrounded by eclectic eateries, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
St Pancras New Church
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A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Staple Inn
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Explore Staple Inn, a historic Tudor building in London, showcasing stunning architecture and a serene courtyard amidst the city's vibrant life.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.9 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn, a cornerstone of London's legal heritage.
Seven Dials
0.9 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Bow St
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Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Historic Seven Dials
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Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Goodge St
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Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Royal Opera House
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Soho Square Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Unmissable attractions to see
Queen Square
0.0 km
A historic Bloomsbury square blending Georgian charm, royal ties, and a world-renowned medical heritage in tranquil garden surroundings.
Russell Sq
0.2 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.3 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Persephone books
0.3 km
Explore the unique literary treasures of Persephone Books, a London bookshop dedicated to uncovering forgotten works by women authors.
The Lamb
0.3 km
Step into The Lamb on Lamb's Conduit Street, a Georgian gem with Victorian charm, famed for its snob screens, real ales, and literary heritage.
Curzon Bloomsbury
0.3 km
Discover world-class arthouse cinema and documentary premieres at Curzon Bloomsbury, nestled in the iconic Brunswick Centre.
Smallest Street in London
0.3 km
Discover Emerald Court, London’s famously narrow alley, a hidden passage steeped in history and architectural contrasts in Bloomsbury.
Brunswick Square Gardens
0.4 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden where literary giants walked beneath ancient plane trees and bohemian dreams took root.
Coram's Fields
0.4 km
A historic seven-acre playground and community hub in London dedicated exclusively to children and young people.
The British Museum
0.4 km
Explore over two million years of human history and culture beneath the iconic Greek Revival façade and stunning Great Court of the British Museum.
The Brunswick Centre
0.4 km
A Grade II listed modernist residential and shopping complex blending architecture, community, and culture in Bloomsbury, London.
St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
0.4 km
Discover St George’s Church, Bloomsbury, Hawksmoor’s last English Baroque masterpiece crowned by its iconic stepped spire and rich historical legacy.
Princess Louise
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
Foundling Museum
0.5 km
Explore the Foundling Museum, where art, music, and history unite to tell the story of Britain’s first children’s charity and its enduring legacy.
Charles Dickens Museum
0.5 km
Step into the Victorian world of Charles Dickens at his only surviving London home, where literary history and personal stories come alive.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Margot
0.7 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.8 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.8 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Sarastro
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.9 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.9 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
The Ninth
0.9 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Noble Rot Soho
0.9 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Balthazar
1.0 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Palm Court Brasserie
1.0 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Punch & Judy
1.0 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fancy That of London
0.4 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
not just a shop
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.8 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Primark
0.8 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.8 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Good
0.8 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.9 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.9 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.9 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Foyles
0.9 km
London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Radha's Boutique
0.9 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.9 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Souvenir Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.2 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Duke
0.5 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
The Coral Room
0.6 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
The Escapologist Bar
0.9 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.9 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
The Little Scarlet Door
1.0 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Prelude by Oriole
1.0 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Thirst Bar Soho
1.0 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Swift Soho
1.0 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Bar Termini
1.0 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Simmons Bar | Soho
1.0 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
1.0 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
The Spice Of Life
1.0 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.0 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
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
