London Silver Vaults
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Descend beneath the streets of London's historic Chancery Lane to discover the world's largest retail collection of fine antique and contemporary silverware. This underground market, established in 1885, houses approximately fifty independent dealers specializing in hallmarked silver, from Georgian goblets to modern statement pieces. Free entry welcomes curious collectors, tourists, and silver enthusiasts into a treasure trove of beautifully crafted wares spanning from the 1600s to the present day.
A brief summary to London Silver Vaults
- 53-64 Chancery Ln, London, WC2A 1QS, GB
- +442072423844
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early in the week or mid-morning to avoid peak crowds and receive more attentive service from dealers during quieter periods.
- Photography is strictly forbidden throughout the vaults; take detailed notes or ask dealers for business cards and catalogues instead.
- Allow time to chat with dealers about hallmarks, provenance, and restoration services—their expertise transforms browsing into learning.
- Check opening hours before visiting, as Saturday hours are limited (9:00 AM–1:00 PM) and the vaults are closed on Sundays.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes; the interconnected vault system requires exploration on foot, and the underground setting can be cool year-round.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
London Silver Vaults location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about London Silver Vaults
A Hidden Underground Marketplace Steeped in History
Beneath the bustling streets of Chancery Lane lies one of London's most extraordinary shopping destinations. The London Silver Vaults, established in 1885, occupies a subterranean vault complex that has become a sanctuary for silver lovers and collectors worldwide. This unique underground market boasts the world's largest retail selection of fine antique and contemporary silverware, housing approximately fifty independent dealers, many of which are family-owned businesses spanning three or four generations. The vaults themselves tell a story of Victorian enterprise and enduring craftsmanship, having served as a secure repository for precious metals and valuables for over a century.A Diverse Universe of Silver Treasures
Walking through the interconnected vaults reveals an astonishing breadth of silver artistry. Visitors encounter exquisite tableware, decorative pieces, fine jewellery, and rare collectors' items spanning multiple centuries and continents. From delicate Early English and Georgian silverware to Victorian and Edwardian treasures, from continental European and Asian pieces to contemporary designer creations, the collection encompasses virtually every period and style of silver craftsmanship. Individual dealers specialize in distinct niches—some focus exclusively on British domestic silverware, others on Chinese export silver or Japanese Meiji period pieces, while certain vendors offer bespoke services and restoration expertise. Each shop reflects the passion and knowledge of its proprietor, creating an environment where every visit becomes an educational journey through the history of metalwork and design.The Specialist Dealers and Their Expertise
The vaults house an impressive array of specialized merchants, each bringing decades or generations of expertise to their craft. Dealers offer everything from antique English silver goblets and presentation pieces to vintage designer handbags paired with silver accessories, from rare stamp collections to intricate enamels and objets de vertu. Some vendors specialize in Old Sheffield Plate and silver-plated wares, while others focus on statement jewellery and contemporary silver design. The independent nature of each shop means that every dealer maintains their own unique inventory and approach, ensuring that no two visits yield identical discoveries. Staff members throughout the vaults are notably knowledgeable, eager to share information about provenance, hallmarks, periods, and the stories behind individual pieces.Access and the Visitor Experience
Entry to the London Silver Vaults is completely free, with no admission fee or pre-booking requirement. The vaults welcome the general public, making this treasure trove accessible to casual browsers, serious collectors, and curious tourists alike. However, visitors should be aware that security measures are in place, including security searches upon entry, and photography is strictly prohibited throughout the premises. These protocols reflect the valuable nature of the merchandise and the need to protect both goods and patrons. The friendly and approachable demeanor of shop owners creates a welcoming atmosphere despite these security measures, with dealers happy to allow visitors to explore at their leisure without pressure to purchase.Location Within London's Historic Jewellery District
Situated in the heart of London's traditional jewellery and silversmithing quarter, the vaults occupy a position of historical significance. The entrance on Southampton Buildings provides access to this subterranean world, while the surrounding neighbourhood contains numerous other antique dealers, jewellers, and historic establishments. The location places the vaults within walking distance of major transport links and other cultural attractions, making it an easily accessible destination for those exploring central London's heritage and commercial history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prince Henry's Room
0.4 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Hare Pl
0.4 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.4 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
St Clement Danes Church
0.5 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Sicilian Avenue
0.6 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
The Old Watch House
0.6 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Ludgate Circus
0.7 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.7 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
190 High Holborn
0.7 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Bow St
0.8 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Royal Opera House
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Victoria Embankment
0.8 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
1 Queen Square
0.8 km
A historic London garden square, blending Georgian elegance, medical legacy, and tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Unmissable attractions to see
Staple Inn
0.1 km
Discover Staple Inn, London’s last Tudor timber-framed Inn of Chancery, a historic legal and wool trading hub that survived fire, war, and centuries of change.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.1 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
Black Cab Heritage Tours
0.2 km
Uncover London's rich history and vibrant culture aboard a classic black cab with personalized tours from Black Cab Heritage Tours.
The Seven Stars
0.3 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
The Maughan Library
0.3 km
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
John Wilkes statue
0.3 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
0.3 km
London’s largest historic square blending centuries of legal heritage, dramatic history, and tranquil green space in the heart of Holborn.
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.3 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
St Dunstan-in-the-West
0.4 km
Discover St Dunstan-in-the-West, a neo-Gothic marvel on Fleet Street with a rich history spanning over a millennium and unique octagonal design.
The Old Bank of England
0.4 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Bank of England, a premier pub in London, offering delicious food, local brews, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.4 km
Discover the historic Ye Olde Mitre pub in London, where centuries of stories and traditional British charm await you.
Dr Johnson's House
0.4 km
Step into the historic home of Samuel Johnson and explore the birthplace of the English dictionary in the heart of London’s literary past.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.4 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.4 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon
0.4 km
Discover London's oldest Catholic church, St. Etheldreda's, a medieval gem steeped in history, sacred relics, and stunning stained glass artistry.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
0.7 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.8 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
St. John
0.8 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.8 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Circus
0.9 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Chez Antoinette
0.9 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.9 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
1.0 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
1.0 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Palm Court Brasserie
1.0 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Twinings - The Strand
0.4 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.6 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Smithfield Market
0.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.9 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.9 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.9 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
The Moomin Shop London
0.9 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Pop Boutique
0.9 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Fancy That of London
0.9 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
1.0 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Good
1.0 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.7 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
The Duke
0.7 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.7 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.8 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.8 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.9 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.9 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.9 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Beaufort Bar
0.9 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.9 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
1.0 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mrs Riot
1.0 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
1.0 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
The Escapologist Bar
1.0 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
1.0 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.7 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Proud Late
0.9 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.
London Best Night Clubs
1.0 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Roxy
1.0 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
1.0 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 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.
Heaven
1.3 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.
Club49Soho
1.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.3 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.
La Capannina Club
1.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Penthouse London
1.4 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.5 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Sophisticats Soho
1.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Quirky
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
