St Bartholomew's Gatehouse: A Tudor Architectural Gem in London
Discover one of London's rare Tudor survivors, the beautifully restored St Bartholomew's Gatehouse, standing proudly since 1595.
St Bartholomew's Gatehouse, located at 57A West Smithfield in London, is a rare surviving Tudor timber-framed building dating from 1595. Built atop a 13th-century stone arch, it once served as the southern entrance to the nave of St Bartholomew-the-Great church. Remarkably spared from the Great Fire of London and revealed after WWI bomb damage, the Grade II listed gatehouse showcases historic wood paneling and heraldic ironwork, standing as a testament to London's rich medieval and Tudor heritage.
A brief summary to St Bartholomew's Gatehouse
- 57A W Smithfield, London, EC1A 9DS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Admire the gatehouse’s Tudor timber frame and 13th-century stone arch from the outside, as the interior is not open to the public.
- Visit nearby St Bartholomew-the-Great church to explore one of London’s oldest places of worship.
- Photograph the gatehouse during evening hours to capture its illuminated iron lanterns and gilded heraldic gates.
- Learn about the gatehouse’s survival through the Great Fire of London and WWI Zeppelin raids to appreciate its historical resilience.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Smithfield to explore other historic landmarks and memorials.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Barbican station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the gatehouse. Frequent Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan line services operate here. No direct parking is available nearby.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including numbers 56, 153, and 214, stop within a 5-minute walk of West Smithfield. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at West Smithfield. Travel times vary depending on traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London. Expect fares starting around £10.
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Walking
From nearby landmarks such as St Paul's Cathedral, the gatehouse is about a 15-minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets, suitable for most visitors.
St Bartholomew's Gatehouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St Bartholomew's Gatehouse
A Tudor Survivor Amidst London's Historic Landscape
St Bartholomew's Gatehouse is one of the rare remnants of Tudor London, constructed in 1595 by William Scudamore. This two-storey timber-framed building sits atop a 13th-century stone archway, which was originally the southern entrance to the nave of St Bartholomew-the-Great church, founded in 1123 as an Augustinian priory. Despite the devastating Great Fire of London in 1666, the gatehouse was spared due to the protective walls of the adjacent priory, preserving its unique architectural character through centuries of urban transformation.Architectural Layers and Historical Transformations
In the 18th century, the gatehouse was concealed behind a Georgian façade, which masked its Tudor timber frame for many years. This façade was damaged during a German Zeppelin bombing raid in World War I, revealing the original Tudor frontage beneath. The building underwent extensive restoration in 1932, reinstating its historic appearance. Today, it retains original features such as bolection-moulded panelling from circa 1700 on the first floor and attic panelling dating back to its initial construction, offering visitors a glimpse into Elizabethan craftsmanship.Historical Significance and Cultural Context
The gatehouse stands as a gateway to one of London's oldest churches, St Bartholomew-the-Great, which has witnessed nearly 900 years of history. The site is linked to significant events, including the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century and proximity to locations where notable historical figures faced execution. Although the gatehouse itself was never the site of Queen Mary I's infamous feast during the burning of Protestant martyrs, its close vicinity to Smithfield places it at the heart of London's tumultuous religious past.Preservation and Heritage Status
Recognized as a Grade II listed building, St Bartholomew's Gatehouse is protected for its architectural and historical importance. Conservation efforts have included restoration of the timber frame, ironwork, and heraldic gates bearing the coats of arms of Henry I and the church’s restorers. The gatehouse is not open to the public inside but can be admired from the exterior, with the option to walk through it en route to the church, which remains an active place of worship.Setting and Surrounding Attractions
Situated on West Smithfield, the gatehouse is near the historic St Bartholomew's Hospital, London's oldest hospital still operating on its original site since 1123. The area is rich in heritage, including the William Wallace Memorial and the Henry VIII Gatehouse Statue. The gatehouse’s location provides a tangible connection to London's medieval and Tudor eras amidst a vibrant modern cityscape.Architectural Details and Visitor Experience
Visitors can appreciate the juxtaposition of medieval stonework and Tudor timber framing, with intricate wood panelling and iron lanterns that illuminate the gatehouse at night. The building’s survival through fire, war, and urban development makes it a unique architectural treasure. While interior access is restricted, the gatehouse’s exterior offers compelling photographic opportunities and a profound sense of London's layered history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.0 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.3 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
Holborn Viaduct
0.4 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
London City wall
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval London City Wall, a monumental symbol of the city’s enduring history and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.5 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Roman London Wall (St Alphage Garden Section)
0.5 km
Explore the ancient Roman and medieval layers of London's historic city wall nestled within the peaceful St Alphage Garden in Barbican.
Queen Anne Statue
0.5 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Ludgate Circus
0.6 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.6 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.6 km
Historic St Bride's Church on Fleet Street, London, famed for its wedding cake spire and deep ties to printing and journalism heritage.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Hodge The Cat Statue in London, a delightful tribute to literary history and a must-visit for cat lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Guildhall
0.7 km
Discover Guildhall, London’s medieval civic heart where Roman ruins, grand halls, and centuries of history converge in the City’s vibrant core.
John Wilkes statue
0.7 km
Explore the John Wilkes Statue in London, a significant cultural landmark celebrating civil liberties and the fight for free speech.
College of Arms
0.7 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Bartholomew the Great
0.1 km
Explore St Bartholomew the Great, a historic Anglican church in London, rich in architecture, culture, and tranquility, perfect for all visitors.
Cloth Fair
0.1 km
Step into medieval London on Cloth Fair, a historic street where merchants once traded fabric and the city’s oldest houses still stand.
Smithfield Market
0.1 km
London's 900-year-old wholesale meat market where Victorian architecture meets modern commerce.
Golden Boy of Pye Corner
0.2 km
Discover the Golden Boy of Pye Corner, a gilded statue marking where London’s Great Fire ended and a moral tale of gluttony began.
Holy Sepulchre Church
0.3 km
Discover Holy Sepulchre London, the largest City parish church, famed as the National Musicians’ Church with centuries of history and vibrant worship.
Postman's Park
0.3 km
A serene London park honoring everyday heroes through a unique memorial of selfless sacrifice, nestled near St Paul’s Cathedral.
The Viaduct Tavern, EC1
0.3 km
Step into a lavish Victorian gin palace where London’s legal history and ghostly tales converge beneath ornate ceilings and historic cellars.
St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
0.3 km
Historic Georgian church at London’s eastern City gate, blending medieval roots with Victorian artistry and community resilience.
40 Charterhouse Square
0.3 km
Historic Charterhouse Square in London’s Barbican blends medieval legacy with iconic Brutalist architecture and vibrant city life.
The Charterhouse
0.3 km
Explore over 600 years of London history at The Charterhouse, from medieval monastery and Tudor mansion to enduring charity and museum.
St Anne & St Agnes Church
0.3 km
Discover St Anne & St Agnes Church, a historic City sanctuary blending Dutch-inspired architecture with a vibrant musical legacy.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.4 km
Discover the sweet side of London at The Chocolate Cocktail Club, where chocolate meets cocktail artistry in a delightful atmosphere.
London Wall Museum Of London
0.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman city wall and artefacts at the Museum of London London Wall, a unique historical gem in Barbican.
St John's Gate
0.4 km
Discover the medieval gateway of St John's Gate, home to the Knights Hospitaller and the origins of St John Ambulance in historic Clerkenwell.
Museum of the Order of Saint John
0.4 km
Discover the rich history of the Order of St John at its historic London Gatehouse, blending medieval heritage with modern humanitarian legacy.
Essential places to dine
St. John
0.2 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
0.4 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Madison
0.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.2 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Sarastro
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
14 Hills
1.5 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.5 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.
Margot
1.5 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.6 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
1.6 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
1.6 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Wahaca Southbank
1.7 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.7 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.5 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
London Silver Vaults
0.9 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
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.
Exmouth Market
1.0 km
Discover Exmouth Market, London’s vibrant street of eclectic eateries, lively bars, and independent shops in the heart of Clerkenwell.
The Royal Exchange
1.0 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Twinings - The Strand
1.1 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.1 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
not just a shop
1.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Unique Gifts
1.1 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
1.1 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
The Store X
1.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.2 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
1.3 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.6 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
The Old Bank of England
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Flight Club Shoreditch
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Aviary
1.1 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.2 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.2 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
Lyaness
1.2 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Old Fountain
1.2 km
Historic family-run freehouse in Old Street, London, famed for award-winning ales, hearty British food, and a stylish rooftop terrace.
The Duke
1.2 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Nightjar Shoreditch
1.2 km
Step into Nightjar Shoreditch, a hidden gem where Prohibition-era cocktails meet live jazz in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting.
Simmons Bar | Old Street
1.3 km
A retro-inspired cocktail bar in Shoreditch offering creative drinks and a lively, youthful nightlife atmosphere.
The Craft Beer Co. Old Street
1.3 km
A vibrant London pub offering a top-tier selection of craft beers served with expert care in a casual, retro setting.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.3 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
1.4 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
London Best Night Clubs
0.5 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
1.2 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
1.3 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Carwash Nightclub
1.4 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
1.6 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.
The Hoxton Pony
1.6 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
1.6 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Trafik
1.7 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Roxy
1.8 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
1.9 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
2.0 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.
Covent Garden Social Club
2.0 km
Discover Covent Garden Social Club: a lively cocktail bar blending exquisite drinks, comedy, and live music for an unforgettable night out in London.
The Ivy Club
2.0 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Heaven
2.0 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
