Finsbury Square
A historic green oasis in the heart of London’s financial district, surrounded by striking architecture and vibrant community life.
Finsbury Square is a historic green oasis nestled in the heart of London’s financial district, surrounded by striking architecture and bustling city life. Once part of Finsbury Fields, this tranquil park offers a peaceful retreat from the urban rush, with a grass bowling green, shaded trees, and occasional farmers’ markets. The square is framed by notable buildings, including the London Metal Exchange and Royal London House, and is a short walk from Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations.
A brief summary to Finsbury Square
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during lunchtime to enjoy the lively atmosphere and grab a bite from the street food café or nearby restaurants.
- Check the local event calendar for farmers’ markets and community events held in the square.
- Take a moment to admire the mix of historic and modern architecture surrounding the park.
- Use the bike docking stations for a convenient way to explore the area and nearby attractions.
- The square is a peaceful spot for a break from the city’s hustle, especially on weekends when it’s quieter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Underground to Moorgate or Liverpool Street stations, both about a 4-minute walk from Finsbury Square. Moorgate serves the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, and Northern lines, while Liverpool Street serves the Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, and Northern lines.
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Bus
Numerous bus routes serve the area, including the 4, 8, 21, 26, 43, 76, 100, 141, 205, 214, 242, 271, 341, 349, 394, 476, 521, and 550, with stops within a 5-minute walk of the square.
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Bike
Finsbury Square is served by several bike docking stations, including one at Moorgate Station, just a 2-minute walk away. The area is well-connected by cycle routes, making it easy to explore on two wheels.
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Walking
From Moorgate or Liverpool Street stations, it’s a pleasant 4-minute walk to Finsbury Square. The route is flat and well-paved, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Finsbury Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Finsbury Square
Historic Origins and Transformation
Finsbury Square was developed between 1777 and 1791 as an attempt to bring a West End atmosphere to the edge of the City of London. Built on the site of the former Finsbury Fields, the square was once a marshy fen outside the city walls, later drained and transformed into a space for recreation and community gatherings. The area played a role in London’s history, serving as a refuge during the Great Fire and as a venue for public events, including John Wesley’s open-air sermons. The original buildings were lost to wartime bombing, but the square’s layout and green space have endured, making it a living testament to London’s evolving urban landscape.Architectural Surroundings
The square is encircled by a mix of historic and modern architecture. To the west stands City Gate House, a 1930s building designed by Frederick Gould and Giles Gilbert Scott, while the north side features the grand Triton Court and Royal London House, both dating from the early 20th century. The east side is home to Grant Thornton and the University of Liverpool’s London campus, and the south is occupied by the London Metal Exchange. These buildings reflect the area’s transition from residential to commercial, blending neo-classical facades with contemporary office spaces.Green Space and Community Life
At the heart of Finsbury Square is a 0.7-hectare park, a rare green space in the financial district. The park features a grass bowling green, mature trees, and landscaped lawns, offering a peaceful escape for office workers and visitors. The square hosts occasional farmers’ markets and community events, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. The recent redevelopment of the park has introduced new amenities, including a co-working center, retail spaces, and a fitness center, making it a hub for both leisure and business.Transport and Accessibility
Finsbury Square is exceptionally well-connected, with Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations just a few minutes’ walk away. These stations provide access to the Underground, Overground, and National Rail networks, as well as numerous bus routes. The area is also served by bike docking stations, making it easy to explore on two wheels. The recent opening of the Elizabeth Line at Liverpool Street has further enhanced connectivity, offering direct links to Heathrow and other key destinations.Modern Amenities and Atmosphere
The square is surrounded by a mix of office buildings, restaurants, and shops, catering to the needs of commuters and residents alike. The Bloomberg offices, Montcalm Royal London House hotel, and a large M&S department store are all within easy reach. The atmosphere is lively during the week, with a steady flow of office workers, and quieter on weekends, making it a versatile destination for relaxation or exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Christopher's Inn Liverpool Street
0.1 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
182 Bishopsgate
0.5 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.6 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
Northumbria University - London
0.6 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
London City wall
0.7 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.8 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.8 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.8 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.8 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
Cornhill Fountain
0.8 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Christ Church Spitalfields
0.8 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, an iconic Anglican church in the heart of London.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
0.9 km
Discover Bevis Marks Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the UK, where rich history and stunning architecture meet in the heart of London.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.9 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Shoreditch Church
0.9 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.9 km
Discover the serene St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historical Anglican gem in London, offering stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at The Cocktail Club near Old Street, a must-visit for nightlife seekers in London.
Museum of Methodism
0.3 km
Explore the rich history and enduring legacy of Methodism at John Wesley’s House and the Museum of Methodism in London’s historic City Road.
Finsbury Circus Gardens
0.4 km
London’s oldest and largest City green space, a historic and tranquil urban oasis blending heritage, nature, and modern design.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
0.4 km
Explore the tranquil Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a historic cemetery in London housing the graves of literary giants and influential figures, amidst beautiful greenery.
Liverpool Street
0.4 km
A historic and bustling transport hub linking London’s financial heart with vibrant East End culture and beyond.
XOYO LONDON
0.5 km
Discover XOYO London: A dynamic nightlife venue with live music, eclectic events, and a stylish bar perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Spital Square
0.5 km
Discover Spital Square, a serene Georgian enclave in vibrant Spitalfields, where history and culture weave together in East London's heart.
The Old Blue Last
0.5 km
Discover London's lively music scene at The Old Blue Last, a vibrant bar and live music venue perfect for an unforgettable night out.
Dennis Severs' House
0.6 km
Step into a candlelit Georgian townhouse and journey through centuries of Spitalfields’ silk-weaving heritage in a uniquely immersive theatrical museum.
Floripa
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Brazilian culture and London nightlife at Floripa, where creative cocktails and lively music meet.
Barbican Centre
0.6 km
Europe’s largest multi-arts centre, a Brutalist architectural icon and vibrant cultural hub in London’s Barbican Estate.
Village Underground
0.6 km
A vibrant East London cultural hotspot blending live music, street art, and creative community in a historic warehouse setting.
Spitalfields Charnel House
0.6 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.
The Craft Beer Co. Old Street
0.6 km
A beloved Old Street pub offering an exceptional craft beer selection and knowledgeable service in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Shoreditch
0.6 km
East London's creative playground where street art, markets, and nightlife collide in authentic, ever-evolving style.
Essential places to dine
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.6 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
0.7 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
0.8 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
0.8 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
14 Hills
1.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Madison
1.1 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Nomadic community
1.2 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
La Dame de Pic London
1.3 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Brawn
1.4 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
George
1.9 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.0 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.6 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Commercial St
0.8 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Middlesex Textiles
0.8 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.8 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.9 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
The Truman Brewery Markets
0.9 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
Luna & Curious
0.9 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
1 Poultry
0.9 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Fashion St
0.9 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
0.9 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
1.0 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Backyard Market
1.0 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
One New Change
1.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Smithfield Market
1.1 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Aviary
0.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Dirty Dicks
0.5 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.6 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Simmons Bar | Old Street
0.6 km
A retro-inspired cocktail bar in Shoreditch offering creative drinks and a lively, youthful nightlife atmosphere.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.6 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Nightjar Shoreditch
0.6 km
Step into Nightjar Shoreditch, a hidden gem where Prohibition-era cocktails meet live jazz in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting.
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.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.7 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.8 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
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.
Happiness Forgets
0.8 km
Discover expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, candlelit basement bar with a welcoming no-standing policy in the heart of Hoxton Square.
Discount Suit Company
0.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
0.9 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
London Best Night Clubs
1.2 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Steel Yard
1.3 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
E1
2.1 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Carwash Nightclub
2.5 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
2.6 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.6 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Ministry of Sound
2.8 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Roxy
2.9 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
2.9 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Cirque Du Soul
3.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.0 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.0 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
3.0 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
3.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly