Fitzroy Square: Georgian Elegance in London's Historic Fitzrovia
Discover Fitzroy Square, a serene Georgian oasis in London's Fitzrovia, rich with architectural splendor and literary heritage.
Fitzroy Square, located in central London’s Fitzrovia district, is a striking example of late 18th-century Georgian architecture designed by Robert and James Adam. Laid out from the 1790s, the square features elegant Portland stone façades, a tranquil central garden, and a rich cultural history linked to literary and artistic figures such as Charles Dickens, George Bernard Shaw, and Virginia Woolf. The square’s blend of historic grandeur and peaceful urban space makes it a unique heritage landmark in London.
A brief summary to Fitzroy Square
- London, GB
- 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 peaceful strolls and optimal light for photography.
- Explore the central garden, a tranquil green space originally reserved for residents.
- Look for blue plaques on buildings commemorating famous residents like Dickens and Shaw.
- Notice the intricate neoclassical architectural details by the Adam brothers on the façades.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Northern Line to Goodge Street station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Fitzroy Square. The station is wheelchair accessible with step-free access. No additional fare beyond standard London Underground pricing applies.
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Bus
Bus routes 24, 29, and 73 serve Tottenham Court Road, about a 5-10 minute walk from Fitzroy Square. Buses run frequently during the day with standard Transport for London fares. Note that traffic can affect journey times.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8-£15. Note that parking near Fitzroy Square is very limited and mainly restricted to residents.
Fitzroy 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 Fitzroy Square
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Origins
Fitzroy Square was developed in the 1790s under the patronage of Charles Fitzroy, 1st Baron Southampton, a descendant of King Charles II. The initial construction of the south and east sides was designed by the renowned architects Robert and James Adam between 1794 and 1798, featuring elegant Portland stone façades rather than the more common brick. The north and west sides were completed later, around 1828, with stucco fronts that complemented the original design. The square’s layout reflects Georgian ideals of symmetry and classical detail, with Ionic and Corinthian columns, palm leaf motifs, and Diocletian windows enhancing its refined appearance.Literary and Artistic Heritage
Fitzroy Square has been home to many notable cultural figures. Charles Dickens lived at No. 25 during his early years, while No. 8 housed the painter James McNeill Whistler. The playwright George Bernard Shaw resided at No. 29 from 1887 until his marriage in 1898, and Virginia Woolf lived there from 1907 to 1911. This rich artistic legacy contributes to Fitzrovia’s reputation as a literary and creative hub. The square’s quiet elegance and historical ambiance continue to inspire visitors and locals alike.War Damage and Restoration
The south side of Fitzroy Square suffered significant bomb damage during the Second World War. Post-war restoration efforts carefully rebuilt these façades to maintain harmony with the original Georgian style. The square was pedestrianised in the 1970s as part of a landscape design by Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, enhancing its role as a peaceful urban retreat. Further improvements in 2008 included surface re-laying to create a level pedestrian area and restrictions on vehicular access, preserving the square’s tranquil atmosphere.Urban Setting and Surrounding Fitzrovia
Situated just west of Tottenham Court Road and south of Euston Road, Fitzroy Square anchors the Fitzrovia neighborhood, which is named after the Fitzroy family estate. The area is characterized by a mix of residential, cultural, and commercial spaces, with Fitzroy Square offering a rare glimpse of Georgian London amidst the bustling city. The central garden, originally a circular railed enclosure for residents, provides a green oasis in this vibrant urban quarter.Architectural Details and Conservation
The square’s façades are noted for their classical motifs: the east and south sides display reversed architectural elements such as Ionic columns framed by Doric pilasters and Corinthian orders adorned with palm leaves. These details showcase the Adam brothers’ mastery of neoclassical design. Fitzroy Square is Grade I listed, reflecting its national architectural and historic significance. The Georgian Group, a conservation organization, maintains its headquarters in the square, underscoring the area’s importance to heritage preservation.Modern Cultural Significance and Uses
Beyond its architectural and historical value, Fitzroy Square has served various cultural and institutional roles. It was once home to the London Foot Hospital and has connections to the development of Scientology in the UK, with offices established in the mid-20th century. Today, the square remains a serene spot for locals and visitors, blending its rich past with contemporary urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fitzroy Square
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Middlesex House
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Goodge St
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Euston War Memorial
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Tavistock Square
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Upper Wimpole St
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Bedford Square & Montague Pl
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St Pancras New Church
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The Photographers' Gallery
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Hasdan
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Soho Square Gardens
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1 Soho Place
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#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
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Liberty’s clock
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Denmark St
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Unmissable attractions to see
University College London
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
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The Dover Castle
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The Cartoon Museum
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Torrington Square
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Gordon Sq
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Euston Square Gardens
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The Gibson Garage London
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Bedford Square Gardens
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Swingers West End
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Woburn Walk
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Fashion Space Gallery
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Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Gallery
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The London Palladium
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Dominion Theatre
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Essential places to dine
Portland
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The Ninth
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Blanchette
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Inamo
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Starbucks Coffee
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Social Eating House
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Noble Rot Soho
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Sussex Bar & Restaurant
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Little Social
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Quo Vadis
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Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
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Kingly Court
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sketch
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Hoppers Soho
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Bob Bob Ricard Soho
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
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House of secrets
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Souvenir Shop
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Beyond Retro Soho
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Radha's Boutique
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Oxford Street Gift Shop
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Liberty London
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Canvas Collection
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Pop Up 38
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Fancy That of London
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Goldsmith Vintage
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Glassworks London - Soho
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Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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JW Anderson London Soho
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La Boutik
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Punch Room
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The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
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NQ64 Soho
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The Argyll Arms
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The Coral Room
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Fitz's Russell Sq.
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Cosy Cocktail Bar
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The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
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Basement Sate
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Henson's Bar and Social
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Thirst Bar Soho
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The Little Scarlet Door
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Simmons Bar | Soho
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Cahoots London
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Purl London
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Female Friendly
