St James's Square
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
St James's Square is London’s oldest garden square, a refined oasis of Georgian elegance in the heart of Westminster. Encircled by grand 17th- and 18th-century townhouses, it has long been a hub of aristocracy, politics, and high society. Today, it blends historic charm with modern prestige, housing embassies, private clubs, and global institutions. The square’s central gardens, laid out in the 18th century and crowned by an equestrian statue of William III, offer a peaceful retreat amid the city’s bustle, while its architecture and atmosphere speak of centuries of power, influence, and London’s westward expansion.
A brief summary to St James's Square
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to see the square at its quietest, with fewer crowds and the best chance to appreciate the architecture and gardens.
- Look for the equestrian statue of William III in the central gardens and note the classical details on the surrounding townhouses, many of which date from the 18th century.
- Combine your visit with nearby landmarks such as St James’s Palace, The Mall, and Pall Mall for a walk through London’s historic heart.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
From Green Park Underground Station (Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria lines), walk northeast for about 10 minutes through St James’s Park and along The Mall to reach St James’s Square.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area near St James’s Square, including routes 3, 11, 12, 13, 22, 24, 88, 91, 139 and 159, with stops within a 5–10 minute walk of the square.
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Walking
From Piccadilly Circus, walk southwest along Regent Street and then south on St James’s Street for about 10 minutes to reach the square.
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Taxi / Ride‑hailing
A taxi or ride‑hailing service from central London landmarks such as Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden typically takes 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic, and can drop you close to the square’s entrances.
St James's 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 St James's Square
London’s First Garden Square
St James's Square holds the distinction of being London’s oldest garden square, created in the 1660s as part of the westward expansion of Stuart London. Developed by Henry Jermyn, 1st Earl of St Albans, on land granted by Charles II, it was conceived as an exclusive residential enclave for the aristocracy, close to the royal palaces of Whitehall and St James’s. The original layout featured grand houses arranged around a central open space, later transformed into a formal garden with a large ornamental lake. In 1726, the St James’s Square Act established a board of trustees to maintain and beautify the gardens, setting a precedent for London’s other squares and ensuring the space remained a well-kept, private retreat for residents.Aristocratic Heart of London
The square quickly became one of the most fashionable addresses in the capital, home to dukes, earls, prime ministers, and foreign dignitaries. Its deep plots and high-ceilinged rooms reflected the wealth and status of its occupants, with interiors designed by leading architects such as Robert Adam and John Soane. Over the centuries, it hosted political salons, diplomatic gatherings, and high society events, earning a reputation as a centre of power and influence. By the 19th century, as the aristocracy moved further west, the square evolved into a base for clubs, institutions, and later corporate headquarters, preserving its elite character in a new form.Architecture and Atmosphere
Today, St James’s Square is defined by its predominantly Georgian and Neo-Georgian architecture, with a harmonious streetscape of stuccoed townhouses and classical detailing. The buildings now house a mix of private members’ clubs, embassies (including the High Commission of Cyprus), the London Library, Chatham House, and major corporate offices. The square’s south side, once considered less fashionable, has been integrated into the unified ensemble, while the north, east, and west sides retain the grand proportions of their original aristocratic homes. The atmosphere is one of quiet dignity, with the hum of central London kept at bay by high railings and mature trees.The Central Gardens
The heart of the square is its private garden, a green oasis enclosed by iron railings and accessible only to residents and members of the surrounding institutions. Originally laid out with a large central basin and later redesigned by John Nash in the early 19th century, the gardens now feature winding paths, lawns, and a belt of shrubs that soften the urban surroundings. At their centre stands the imposing equestrian statue of King William III, erected in 1808 and one of the earliest major public statues in London. The gardens remain a rare example of a historic London square garden that has retained its character and exclusivity while still contributing to the city’s green space.From Aristocracy to Global Influence
Over the centuries, St James’s Square has transitioned from a residential enclave of the British elite to a hub of international diplomacy, business, and culture. The arrival of private clubs in the 19th century marked the beginning of this shift, followed by the establishment of think tanks, embassies, and corporate headquarters. Despite these changes, the square has preserved its architectural integrity and sense of place, continuing to symbolise London’s enduring connection between power, tradition, and urban planning. It remains a living piece of the city’s history, where the legacy of the Stuart and Georgian periods is still visible in every stone and tree.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St James's Square
0.0 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.2 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.2 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.2 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
Pickering Pl
0.2 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.3 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.4 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.4 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Captain James Cook
0.4 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Canada House
0.4 km
A grand Greek Revival building on Trafalgar Square, Canada House is a cultural and diplomatic showcase for Canada in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carlton Gardens
0.1 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.1 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Christie's London
0.2 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.2 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Masons Yard
0.2 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.2 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Waterloo Pl
0.2 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.2 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.2 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
Carlton House Terrace
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Jermyn St
0.2 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
Duke of York Column
0.2 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.2 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
The Queen's Chapel
0.2 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.2 km
Discover centuries of British hat-making tradition at Lock & Co., the world's oldest hat shop since 1676, crafting iconic styles for royalty and legends.
Essential places to dine
Golden Lion
0.2 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Wild Honey St James
0.2 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Quaglino's
0.3 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Great British Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Bantof
0.5 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
NOPI
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.6 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
HIDE
0.7 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.2 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.3 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.5 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.5 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.
Crest of London Ltd
0.5 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.6 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Machine-A
0.6 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.7 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Thin White Duke
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Old Shades
0.6 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Duke of Argyll
0.6 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Duke Of Wellington
0.6 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.7 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Below
0.7 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Disrepute - Soho
0.7 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.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Cahoots London
0.7 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.7 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Two Chairmen
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.2 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
TSQ Club
0.4 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Cuckoo Club
0.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tabu London
0.4 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 Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.6 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 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.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Heaven
0.8 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.
Sunset night club
0.8 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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
- Historic
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
- Classic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
