Mitre Square: A Historic and Atmospheric City Sanctuary
Mitre Square: A serene City of London square where medieval history meets Victorian mystery and contemporary art.
Mitre Square, nestled in London’s historic financial district, is a tranquil square steeped in layered history. Known primarily as the site of Catherine Eddowes’ murder by Jack the Ripper in 1888, it also overlays the medieval Holy Trinity Priory grounds. Today, it offers a quiet urban retreat where visitors can reflect on its complex past, admire occasional contemporary art installations, and explore nearby hidden gems like the Ye Olde Mitre pub.
A brief summary to Mitre Square
- London, EC3A 5DE, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Explore the nearby Ye Olde Mitre pub, a hidden historic gem dating back to 1546.
- Look out for temporary art installations as part of the 'Sculpture in the City' program.
- Bring a camera to capture the contrast between historic cobblestones and modern City architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Aldgate Station, served by the Circle and Metropolitan lines. From there, it is a 5-7 minute walk to Mitre Square. Aldgate station is accessible and well connected, with frequent services throughout the day. A single fare costs approximately £2.50 with contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Aldgate, including routes 25, 205, and 254. Bus travel times vary but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Buses accept Oyster cards and contactless payments, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Walking
Mitre Square is within walking distance from Liverpool Street Station, approximately 15 minutes on foot across mostly flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for most mobility levels but may be busy during peak hours.
Mitre 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 Mitre Square
A Site of Dark History and Enduring Mystery
Mitre Square is most famously known as the location where Catherine Eddowes, the fourth victim of the notorious Jack the Ripper, was discovered brutally murdered on September 30, 1888. This murder was unique as it was the only Ripper killing within the City of London, marking Mitre Square as a grim landmark in Victorian crime history. The brutality of the crime and the mystery surrounding the identity of the killer have cemented the square’s place in British true crime heritage. The discovery of Eddowes’ body in the square’s darkest corner, illuminated only by a constable’s lantern, remains a chilling moment etched into the city’s memory.Layers of Medieval and Urban Legacy
Beneath its Victorian infamy, Mitre Square sits on the historic grounds of the Holy Trinity Priory, a medieval monastery founded in the early 12th century by Queen Matilda. Although none of the original priory buildings survive today, the square’s layout roughly corresponds to the priory’s cloister, and nearby streets trace the former church’s nave. Over centuries, the area transformed from religious grounds to a commercial and warehouse district by the late 19th century, reflecting London’s evolving urban fabric. This juxtaposition of sacred past and industrial present adds depth to the square’s character.A Quiet Urban Refuge with Contemporary Flair
Today, Mitre Square offers a peaceful respite amid the bustling City of London. Its cobblestone paving and modest size create an intimate atmosphere rarely found in the financial district. The square frequently hosts temporary sculptures as part of the 'Sculpture in the City' program, blending historical gravity with modern artistic expression. This interplay invites visitors to contemplate the passage of time and the city’s ability to preserve heritage while embracing contemporary culture.Nearby Historical and Cultural Highlights
Adjacent to Mitre Square is Ye Olde Mitre, one of London’s oldest pubs dating back to 1546, tucked away down a hidden alley. This historic tavern offers a tangible connection to the city’s past and a contrasting lively social space to the square’s solemnity. The surrounding streets, once home to warehouses and watchmen, now form part of walking tours that explore both the darker chapters and architectural curiosities of the City, making Mitre Square a focal point for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.Reflections on Memory and Urban Identity
Mitre Square exemplifies how a small urban space can encapsulate multiple narratives—from medieval spirituality to Victorian crime, and from industrial transformation to contemporary art. The square’s enduring presence amidst London’s ever-changing skyline invites reflection on how history is layered within the cityscape. Visitors often find themselves drawn into the stories embedded in its stones, pondering the complex relationship between place, memory, and identity in one of the world’s oldest financial centers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.2 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.2 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
0.2 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
Lloyd's of London
0.3 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Northumbria University - London
0.4 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
London Wall
0.5 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
182 Bishopsgate
0.5 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Tower Hill Memorial
0.5 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.5 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Cornhill Fountain
0.6 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Custom House
0.6 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Christ Church Spitalfields
0.7 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, an iconic Anglican church in the heart of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
0.7 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.7 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.7 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Unmissable attractions to see
Moonshine Saloon
0.1 km
Experience the Wild West at Moonshine Saloon, London's premier cocktail bar offering unique drinks in a captivating atmosphere.
St Botolph without Aldgate
0.1 km
Historic Anglican church at London’s ancient eastern gate, blending centuries of architecture, community stories, and the oldest working organ in the UK.
Bevis Marks Synagogue
0.1 km
Discover the oldest continuously used synagogue in the UK, a serene Sephardic sanctuary nestled in London's historic heart since 1701.
Swingers Crazy Golf - City
0.2 km
Underground mini golf meets lively bars and street food in London’s City district for a unique social night out.
The Garden at 120
0.3 km
Discover London’s largest free rooftop garden with serene greenery and iconic 360° city views atop 120 Fenchurch Street.
St Helen's Church, Bishopsgate
0.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history of St Helen's Church, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of London.
Devonshire Square
0.3 km
A tranquil blend of Victorian heritage and modern elegance in London’s bustling financial heart.
Petticoat Lane Market
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant history and diverse culture of Petticoat Lane Market, East London's iconic hub for textiles, fashion, and street food.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St Olave's Church, a hidden gem in the heart of London, perfect for history enthusiasts and peace-seekers alike.
Trinity House
0.4 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage at Trinity House, London's historic center for navigation and seamanship, featuring stunning architecture and captivating exhibits.
Leadenhall Market
0.4 km
Discover Leadenhall Market’s stunning Victorian architecture and vibrant heritage in the heart of London’s financial district.
Trinity Square
0.4 km
A dignified London square where imperial architecture, ancient walls, and solemn memorials meet beside the Tower of London.
Trinity Square Gardens
0.4 km
A quiet City garden on the site of Tower Hill’s scaffold, home to the Tower Hill Memorial and framed by historic architecture and views of the Tower of London.
Sundial at the Tower Hill
0.5 km
A captivating bronze sundial near Tower Hill station, telling London’s 2,000-year history through intricate carvings and offering stunning views of the Tower of London.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
0.5 km
Explore the historic St Margaret Pattens in London, a serene church brimming with stunning architecture and rich history, perfect for a peaceful visit.
Essential places to dine
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
14 Hills
0.3 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
La Dame de Pic London
0.4 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.5 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
1.1 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
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.
Madison
1.2 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Restaurant Story
1.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
George
1.4 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
The Clove Club
1.5 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
1.5 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Brawn
1.8 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
St. John
1.8 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
1.9 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Middlesex Textiles
0.3 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Traders Gate
0.5 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
0.6 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
The Royal Exchange
0.7 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Spitalfields Market
0.7 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Sclater Street Market
0.8 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.8 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
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.
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.
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.
Backyard Market
0.9 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Hay's Galleria
1.0 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
1.0 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
One New Change
1.2 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
The Bell
0.3 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Discount Suit Company
0.4 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Bootlegger
0.4 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.5 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
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
0.5 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.6 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
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.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.0 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Aviary
1.0 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
1.1 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
The Old Blue Last
1.2 km
Historic Shoreditch pub and iconic live music venue where London’s grassroots artists rise amid a raw, vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
