Speakers' Corner, Hyde Park: The Cradle of Free Speech in London
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Nestled in the northeast corner of Hyde Park near Marble Arch, Speakers' Corner is a historic open-air forum renowned worldwide for its tradition of free speech and public debate. Since the 19th century, it has been a vibrant gathering place where anyone can express their views on any lawful topic, continuing a legacy born from democratic protests and social movements. This iconic site blends a rich, sometimes dark history with a lively atmosphere of open dialogue and activism.
A brief summary to Speakers' Corner
- Hyde Park, London, W2 2EU, GB
- +447722523629
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday mornings to experience the liveliest debates and the largest gatherings of speakers and listeners.
- Bring an open mind and be prepared for spirited discussions and occasional heckling, which are part of the tradition.
- Explore the nearby Marble Arch and Oxford Street areas to complement your visit with shopping and dining.
- Respect the rules: speeches must be lawful and free of profanity, ensuring a safe environment for all.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground Central Line to Marble Arch station, approximately a 5 to 10-minute walk to Speakers' Corner. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes, including numbers 2, 13, 18, and 274, stop near Marble Arch. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London, with an Oyster card or contactless payment fare of around £1.75 per journey.
-
Taxi or Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from central London takes about 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares ranging from £8 to £20. Note that parking is limited and expensive around Hyde Park.
-
Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Speakers' Corner is pleasant and accessible, with flat terrain and well-maintained paths. Walking times from Oxford Street are approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Speakers' Corner location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Speakers' Corner
From Tyburn Gallows to a Platform for Voices
Speakers' Corner's location carries a profound historical weight, originally near the infamous Tyburn Gallows where public executions took place from as early as 1196 until 1783. The site was a grim spectacle drawing huge crowds who witnessed hangings and heard final speeches from the condemned, embedding the area with a legacy of public oration under dire circumstances. This dark past laid an unusual foundation for the corner’s later role as a place for free expression.The Birth of a Democratic Tradition
The transformation into a free speech haven began in the mid-19th century amid rising democratic and workers' rights movements. The pivotal moment came with the Reform League’s 1866 protest, which led to violent clashes and the tearing down of Hyde Park railings to gain access. These events pressured the government to enact the Parks Regulation Act of 1872, officially designating the area for public speaking and political demonstrations. Since then, Speakers' Corner has symbolized the right to free speech and assembly.A Stage for Influential Voices and Movements
Over the decades, Speakers' Corner has hosted many renowned figures such as Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, and George Orwell, who used the platform to share revolutionary ideas. It also became a focal point for the suffragette movement between 1906 and 1914, with large gatherings advocating for women's voting rights. The corner has witnessed rallies and protests on issues from wars to social justice, maintaining its role as a vibrant hub for public discourse and activism.Experience the Atmosphere of Open Debate
Today, Speakers' Corner remains a lively and unique space where anyone can stand on a soapbox to speak on any lawful subject. Sundays often see crowds gather to listen, debate, and heckle speakers, continuing a tradition of spirited public engagement. The area’s proximity to Marble Arch and Oxford Street ensures a steady flow of visitors, contributing to its dynamic and sometimes boisterous atmosphere.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Speakers' Corner is more than a physical space; it is a living monument to democratic values and the power of free expression. It exemplifies how public spaces can foster dialogue, dissent, and community participation. Its history intertwines with London’s social and political evolution, making it a must-visit landmark for those interested in the roots of civil liberties and public debate.Continuing Tradition in a Modern World
While modern technology and media have transformed communication, Speakers' Corner endures as a rare venue for face-to-face public speaking and debate. It remains a place where voices from all walks of life converge, from activists and philosophers to curious onlookers. This enduring tradition highlights the corner’s unique role in preserving the spirit of open dialogue in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Speakers' Corner
0.0 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.5 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.5 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
The Old Police House
0.6 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.6 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
0.7 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Norwegian War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.0 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.0 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.0 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Wellington Arch
1.1 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
The Paddington Partnership
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.1 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Sussex Gardens
1.2 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Savile Row
1.2 km
Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Gifts
0.3 km
A lively London-themed gift shop on Oxford Street offering quick souvenirs with a vibrant but sometimes challenging shopping experience.
Moco Museum London
0.3 km
Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
0.3 km
Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Park Ln
0.4 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Mercato Mayfair
0.5 km
Discover a vibrant, sustainable food hall set within the historic St. Mark's Church, blending global flavors with Gothic grandeur in Mayfair.
Grosvenor Sq
0.5 km
Grosvenor Square: London's historic garden square blending aristocratic heritage, American diplomacy, and modern urban renewal in Mayfair.
Hyde Park
0.5 km
Explore Hyde Park, London's vast historic Royal Park and vibrant green sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Grosvenor Chapel
0.6 km
Historic 18th-century Mayfair chapel blending Georgian elegance with Anglo-Catholic tradition and wartime American ties.
Selfridges
0.6 km
Discover Selfridges London, a historic Oxford Street icon blending luxury shopping, innovative experiences, and cultural heritage across six vibrant floors.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.6 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Mount Street Gardens
0.6 km
A historic and tranquil garden oasis in Mayfair, blending Victorian charm with seasonal beauty and rich London heritage.
Montagu Square
0.7 km
A grand Georgian garden square in Marylebone, famous for its elegant architecture and as the former home of John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Jimi Hendrix.
The Punch Bowl
0.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Punch Bowl, a quintessential British pub in Mayfair, London, offering delectable cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
0.7 km
Historic Jesuit Catholic church in Mayfair, London, renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and vibrant spiritual community.
St Christopher's Place
0.7 km
A charming pedestrianised enclave of boutique shops and global dining, tucked just off Oxford Street in central London.
Essential places to dine
Apricity Restaurant
0.6 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.0 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.1 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
The Grenadier
1.1 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
HIDE
1.1 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Little Social
1.2 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
sketch
1.2 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Starbucks Coffee
1.4 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
1.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Kingly Court
1.4 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
NOPI
1.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Quaglino's
1.4 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Great British Restaurant
1.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Portland
1.5 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
1.5 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.0 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
LONGCHAMP
1.1 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Charbonnel et Walker
1.2 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
28 The Royal Arcade
1.2 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Oxford St
1.2 km
Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.
Regent St.
1.3 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Beyond Retro Soho
1.3 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Hamleys
1.3 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
237 Oxford St
1.3 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Harrods
1.3 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Liberty
1.3 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Burlington Arcade
1.4 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Knightsbridge
1.4 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Kingly Ct
1.4 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Carnaby St
1.4 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
0.5 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Purl London
0.9 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Victoria, Paddington
0.9 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
Below
1.1 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
1.2 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
The Dickens Tavern
1.2 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Swan, Hyde Park
1.3 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
The Argyll Arms
1.3 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Cahoots London
1.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
1.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
1.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
NQ64 Soho
1.6 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Duke of Argyll
1.7 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Thin White Duke
1.7 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Basement Sate
1.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
1.0 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
LUXX CLUB LONDON
1.1 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
1.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Tabu London
1.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
1.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
1.6 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Sunset night club
1.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Bordello London
1.7 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
1.7 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
St Moritz Club
1.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Box Soho
1.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.7 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
1.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Metric
1.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
