Shepherd Market
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Tucked away in the heart of Mayfair, Shepherd Market is a charming village-like enclave that feels frozen in time. This pedestrianised Georgian square, dating back to the 1730s, offers an enchanting blend of independent boutiques, art galleries, intimate restaurants, and traditional pubs. Narrow cobbled alleyways wind past quirky shopfronts, vintage telephone boxes, and a vibrant community of long-established businesses. From fine dining to casual cafes, international cuisine to English classics, Shepherd Market delivers an authentic London experience far removed from the bustle of nearby Piccadilly and Curzon Street.
A brief summary to Shepherd Market
- London, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Enter from Curzon Street to experience the charming covered walkway entrance, flanked by a sandwich shop and antiquarian bookshop—a perfect introduction to the market's blend of old and new.
- Visit Ye Grapes or The Kings Arms for authentic pub atmosphere; both are historic establishments serving traditional English ale and classic fare in intimate, character-filled settings.
- Explore the art galleries scattered throughout—Maddox Gallery features works by Banksy, Basquiat and contemporary artists, while smaller galleries offer rotating exhibitions in original shopfronts.
- Linger at Shepherd Market Wine House with its distinctive mustard-yellow façade; enjoy wine and charcuterie while watching the world pass by from pavement tables.
- Allow time to wander the narrow alleyways and discover hidden corners; the market rewards slow exploration with unexpected boutiques, cafes and historical details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Shepherd Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Shepherd Market
A Georgian Village in the Heart of Mayfair
Shepherd Market is a rare pocket of old London that has managed to preserve its 18th-century character despite being surrounded by one of the capital's most prestigious neighbourhoods. Created by architect Edward Shepherd from 1735 onwards, this intimate square occupies the site where the famous May Fair was once held—the annual event that gave Mayfair its name. Originally a cattle trading fair that evolved into a festival for Londoners from all walks of life, the location transformed into the charming marketplace and social hub that exists today. The market's narrow, pedestrianised streets are lined with Georgian shopfronts, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors back several centuries.Eclectic Shopping and Independent Boutiques
The market's appeal lies in its collection of independent retailers and bespoke businesses. Boutiques offer everything from contemporary fashion to vintage clothing, while jewellers display both traditional and innovative pieces. Art galleries dot the alleyways, including the prestigious Maddox Gallery, which showcases works by established artists alongside emerging talent. Specialist shops cater to every need: a florist frequented by locals and shopkeepers alike, a barber using Turkish haircutting traditions, a shoe repair shop, and postal services. This self-contained village even has its own pharmacy and fashion retailers, meaning visitors need never leave to find essentials or luxuries. The quirky British charm is completed by a red pillar box and two bright telephone boxes—iconic sightings that have become Instagram favourites.Dining and Drinking Across Continents
Shepherd Market's restaurant and pub scene reflects both its heritage and cosmopolitan character. Historic pubs like Ye Grapes (dating to 1882) and The Kings Arms (established in 1742, originally called the Three Jolly Butchers) serve traditional English ale and fish and chips in atmospheric settings filled with old-school décor. For dining, the market offers remarkable diversity: fine dining establishments like Kitty Fisher's, named after a Georgian courtesan and featuring dark wood and red velvet interiors; Italian restaurants such as Da Corradi, tucked down narrow walkways and beloved by locals and celebrities alike; and international options ranging from French and Lebanese to Iranian and Thai cuisine. Wine bars like Shepherd Market Wine House, recognisable by its distinctive mustard-yellow façade, offer carefully curated selections paired with charcuterie from France, Switzerland and Italy. Cafes provide everything from Greek pastries to contemporary coffee culture.Living History and Hidden Stories
Beyond its visible charm, Shepherd Market harbours intriguing historical layers. The basement of Jack the Clipper barber shop was once the laboratory of Sir William Withey Gull, a physician to the royals and a figure named in historical speculation about Jack the Ripper. The market's covered walkway entrance from Curzon Street, flanked by a sandwich shop and antiquarian bookshop, exemplifies the blend of old and new that defines the area. Art galleries including 54 The Gallery, Hignell Gallery, and Imitate Modern occupy original shopfronts, while the Lamb Arts exhibition space sits next to The Kings Arms, creating a vibrant cultural quarter within this compact neighbourhood.A Self-Contained Community
What makes Shepherd Market truly special is its sense of community and self-sufficiency. Shopkeepers frequent one another's businesses; the neighbourhood even hosts its own ceremony to switch on Christmas lights. This interconnectedness creates an atmosphere where long-established traders serve multiple generations of customers, and the market functions as a genuine village rather than merely a shopping destination. The area maintains its independence fiercely—locals have successfully campaigned against development proposals that might compromise its character. For visitors, this means encountering authentic London commerce and social life rather than corporate uniformity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
0.5 km
Explore the Machine Gun Corps Memorial in London, a poignant tribute to bravery and sacrifice during World War I, surrounded by history and beauty.
Statue of Achilles
0.5 km
Discover Apsley House, a stunning monument in London, showcasing the art and history of the Duke of Wellington in an exquisite setting.
Constitution Hill
0.5 km
Explore the historic Constitution Hill in London, a scenic pathway connecting royal landmarks and offering stunning views of the city.
Canada Memorial
0.5 km
Visit the Canada Memorial in Green Park, London, a serene homage to Canadian soldiers, surrounded by natural beauty and rich history.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.5 km
A colossal bronze tribute to military genius, cast from enemy cannons and crowned with controversy.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.5 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
Wellington Arch
0.5 km
Discover the grandeur of Wellington Arch, a historic landmark in London that celebrates military victories and offers stunning city views.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.5 km
Discover the historical elegance of Grosvenor Square, a serene oasis in the heart of London, surrounded by stunning architecture and rich culture.
Royal Artillery Memorial
0.6 km
Explore the Royal Artillery Memorial in London, a historic tribute to the bravery of the Royal Artillery in World War I surrounded by lush gardens.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.6 km
The bronze dandy who redefined men's fashion and paid the price for elegance.
Burlington House
0.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Burlington House, home to London's prestigious art and geological institutions.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.6 km
A hidden plaque in London marks the site of the Republic of Texas Legation, a unique chapter in Anglo-Texan history.
Pickering Pl
0.6 km
Explore the serene ambiance of Pickering Place, a hidden gem in London, perfect for a historical stroll and local flavor.
Clarence House
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Clarence House, a royal residence that embodies British elegance in the heart of London.
3 Savile Row
0.7 km
Explore Savile Row, London’s iconic destination for bespoke tailoring and timeless elegance in the heart of the fashion district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clermont Club
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of The Clermont Club, London's premier casino offering luxury gaming, exquisite dining, and a stylish bar in the heart of the city.
The Punch Bowl
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover the peace and beauty of the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception in Mayfair—an architectural wonder and spiritual sanctuary in London.
Berkeley Square
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Berkeley Square, a historic garden in London, ideal for relaxation and leisure amongst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
The Green Park
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Green Park, a lush and historic green space in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Mount Street Gardens
0.4 km
Discover tranquility at Mount Street Gardens, an idyllic park in London offering lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and a serene escape from the city's hustle.
Bomber Command Memorial
0.4 km
Discover the Bomber Command Memorial in London's Green Park, a poignant homage to the brave souls of the Royal Air Force during World War II.
Grosvenor Chapel
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Grosvenor Chapel, a historic gem in London's vibrant heart, perfect for reflection and cultural exploration.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
0.4 km
Explore the innovative world of contemporary art at Sprueth Magers Gallery, a must-visit destination in London's vibrant art scene.
New Zealand War Memorial
0.5 km
Discover the New Zealand War Memorial in London, a poignant tribute to bravery amidst stunning gardens and rich history.
Commonwealth Memorial Gates
0.5 km
Explore the Commonwealth Memorial Gates in London, a stunning tribute to the bravery of soldiers from various nations during World Wars I and II.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
0.5 km
Explore the grandeur of Queen Elizabeth Gate, a historic entryway to Hyde Park, blending rich heritage with natural beauty in the heart of London.
The Royal Institution
0.5 km
Historic London institution inspiring public science education and discovery since 1799, home to Faraday’s legacy and iconic Christmas Lectures.
Apsley House
0.5 km
Explore Apsley House, the magnificent residence of the Duke of Wellington, showcasing art, history, and opulence in the heart of London.
Spencer House
0.5 km
Explore Spencer House, a stunning 18th-century mansion in London, where history, art, and beautiful gardens come together for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience exquisite modern British cuisine at Ormer Mayfair Restaurant in London - where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
HIDE
0.2 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with panoramic Green Park views, innovative modern European cuisine, and impeccable service.
Francatelli
0.5 km
Discover the elegance of British cuisine at Francatelli – where tradition meets modernity in every bite.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.5 km
Michelin-starred fine dining celebrating British produce with French technique in intimate Mayfair elegance.
Great British Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic British cuisine at its finest with modern flair in London's Great British Restaurant.
Quaglino's
0.6 km
Experience timeless Art Deco elegance, live jazz, and classic European dining in the heart of London’s St. James's at Quaglino's.
Golden Lion
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in St James, London, blending theatrical heritage with cozy charm and classic British fare.
sketch
0.8 km
Discover sketch: A fusion of culinary excellence and artistic expression in London's vibrant dining scene.
The Grenadier
0.8 km
A hidden gem in Belgravia, The Grenadier combines military history, ghostly legends, and classic British pub charm in a secluded mews setting.
NOPI
0.8 km
Discover the unique fusion of Mediterranean flavors at NOPI, London's premier destination for exquisite dining experiences.
Apricity Restaurant
0.8 km
Pioneering sustainable fine dining where vegetables shine and every plate tells a story of seasonal excellence.
Little Social
0.8 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro blending French flair with modern British cuisine in an intimate, clubby setting.
Mercato Mayfair
0.8 km
Experience diverse global street food in a stunning restored church at the heart of London’s Mayfair district.
Kingly Court
0.9 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.9 km
Experience the opulence of French-British cuisine at Bob Bob Ricard Soho, where every meal feels like a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shepherd Market
0.0 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.3 km
Discover iconic rock memorabilia and exclusive Hard Rock merchandise in the legendary London Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.4 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.5 km
Discover timeless British elegance and bespoke craftsmanship at Turnbull & Asser’s historic Jermyn Street flagship store.
Burlington Arcade
0.5 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Bond St
0.6 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
John Lobb St. James
0.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and royal craftsmanship at John Lobb St. James, London's premier bespoke shoemaker since 1849.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.6 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Fortnum & Mason
0.6 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Princes Arcade
0.7 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Floris London
0.7 km
Discover the world’s oldest family-run perfumery, where centuries of fragrance history meet modern luxury and bespoke creations.
Jermyn St
0.8 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
The Queen's Shop
0.8 km
Discover exclusive royal-themed gifts at The Queen's Shop, a haven for tourists near Buckingham Palace, showcasing the essence of British heritage.
Regent St.
0.8 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.9 km
Explore the elegance of Buckingham Palace Shop, where royal memorabilia and exquisite chinaware await you in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.2 km
Experience the unique cocktail culture of London at Below, a stylish cocktail bar in the heart of Piccadilly, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Disrepute - Soho
0.9 km
Experience the art of mixology at Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication.
Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
0.9 km
Experience the luxurious charm of Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar, where exquisite drinks meet an enchanting atmosphere.
Cahoots London
0.9 km
Experience the unique charm of Cahoots London, a cocktail bar that brings the nostalgia of 1940s London to life with exquisite drinks and vibrant ambiance.
The New York Bar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of New York at The New York Bar in London, where signature cocktails and chic ambiance meet.
Bbar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bbar, a chic lounge and restaurant near Buckingham Palace in London.
The Argyll Arms
1.0 km
Discover The Argyll Arms, a historic London pub blending tradition and modern comfort, perfect for a relaxing drink or meal.
The Thin White Duke
1.0 km
Discover The Thin White Duke, an artistic cocktail bar in London offering innovative drinks, dim sum, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Duke of Argyll
1.0 km
Discover the Duke of Argyll, a quintessential London pub offering classic fare, local ales, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
1.1 km
Discover The Blind Pig at Social Eating House, where innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere come together in the heart of London.
Adam & Eve
1.1 km
Experience the authentic British pub culture at Adam & Eve, where great food and drinks meet a vibrant London atmosphere.
Basement Sate
1.2 km
Discover Basement Sate, a vibrant cocktail bar in London, offering creative drinks and a chic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.2 km
Experience the elegance of The Churchill Bar & Terrace, where exquisite cocktails meet a serene outdoor terrace in the heart of London.
All Bar One Leicester Square
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at All Bar One Leicester Square, the ideal spot for wine and cocktail enthusiasts in London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
1.2 km
Experience the art of mixology at Opium Cocktail Bar in Soho, where innovative cocktails meet an enchanting atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly