Golden Square, Soho: A Historic Garden Oasis in Central London
Golden Square: A serene historic garden square blending aristocratic legacy with Soho’s creative pulse in central London.
Golden Square is a historic garden square nestled in Soho, London, known for its elegant hardscaping, mature trees, and classical architecture. Established in the 1670s on a former plague pit site, it evolved into a political and ambassadorial hub before becoming a vibrant media and creative district. Today, it offers a tranquil retreat amid the bustling city, with seating areas, a central statue of King George II, and a blend of rich history and modern energy.
A brief summary to Golden Square
- Golden Square, London, W1R 3AD, GB
- +442076416000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to experience the lively lunchtime atmosphere with local office workers enjoying the garden.
- Take time to explore the blue plaques and architectural details that highlight the square’s rich history.
- Enjoy a quiet moment on one of the benches near the central statue of King George II.
- Check out the free table tennis tables for a fun, interactive experience in the square.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Piccadilly or Bakerloo line to Piccadilly Circus station. From there, it is a flat, accessible 3-minute walk east to Golden Square. The station is well-serviced with trains every 2-5 minutes, and fares range from £2.50 to £6 depending on ticket type and time.
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Walking
From Oxford Circus station, walk south-east for about 10 minutes through Soho’s lively streets to reach Golden Square. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchair users, with plenty of pedestrian crossings and clear signage.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations such as Oxford Street or Leicester Square typically takes 5-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8 and £15. Note that parking near Golden Square is very limited and expensive.
Golden Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Golden Square
Origins and Early Prestige
Golden Square was established in 1675 on land once known as Gelding Close, originally used for horse grazing and later as a plague pit during the Great Plague of 1665. The development of the square was likely influenced by Sir Christopher Wren, whose plans bear his signature, although the exact extent of his involvement remains uncertain. By the early 18th century, Golden Square had become a prestigious residential area, attracting aristocrats, bishops, and foreign diplomats, including the Portuguese and Bavarian ambassadors. This early prominence is reflected in the square’s grand classical buildings and blue plaques marking notable former residents.Architectural Character and Garden Design
The square is primarily hardscaped with raised borders and planted with mature trees, offering a refined urban garden atmosphere. At its center stands a rare public statue of King George II, one of only two in London, surrounded by a carefully maintained rose garden gifted by Bulgarian Londoners. The surrounding buildings retain many 18th-century architectural elements, lending the square a timeless elegance that contrasts with the dynamic Soho neighborhood. Benches and seating areas invite visitors to pause and enjoy this peaceful green enclave.Literary and Cultural Connections
Golden Square has inspired literary references, notably appearing in Charles Dickens’ 1839 novel "Nicholas Nickleby" as the home of Ralph Nickleby. The square’s cultural significance extends beyond literature; it played a central role in London’s wool and yarn trade during the 19th century, with numerous yarn companies headquartered nearby. During World War II, an air raid shelter was constructed beneath the square, and post-war restoration enhanced its garden features, preserving its role as a tranquil refuge.Modern-Day Vibrancy and Media Hub
Today, Golden Square is a bustling center for media, advertising, and creative industries, housing offices of major companies such as M&C Saatchi and Sony Pictures Entertainment. Despite its commercial role, the square maintains its garden character, balancing historic charm with contemporary urban life. The installation of free table tennis tables as part of a National Lottery initiative adds a playful element to this historic space, making it a lively yet serene spot for locals and visitors alike.Hidden Histories and Memorials
Among Golden Square’s lesser-known features is the UK’s first Stolperstein or 'stumbling stone,' commemorating Ada Van Danzig, a painting restorer who worked here before World War II. This poignant memorial connects the square to broader historical narratives of remembrance. The square’s layered history—from its origins as plague burial ground to a fashionable diplomatic quarter and now a creative hub—imbues it with a unique depth and character.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Golden Square offers a peaceful oasis away from the heavy tourist traffic of central London, with accessible pathways and seating suited for relaxation or quiet reflection. Its location between Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus makes it an ideal lunchtime retreat for office workers and a serene stop for travelers exploring Soho. The blend of historic architecture, green space, and modern creativity creates an atmosphere that is both contemplative and vibrant, inviting visitors to appreciate London’s rich urban tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.2 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
3 Savile Row
0.2 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Burlington House
0.3 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.4 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Chinatown Gate
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
The Photographers' Gallery
0.4 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Café de Paris
0.4 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.4 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
St George's Church, Hanover Square
0.4 km
Historic Georgian church in Mayfair, famed for Handel’s music, elegant worship, and a premier London wedding venue.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.4 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.4 km
A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.4 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piccadilly Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre offering immersive musicals and timeless Art Deco charm in the heart of London’s vibrant entertainment district.
Spirit of Soho Mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mosaic celebrating Soho’s rich artistic heritage and community spirit at the corner of Carnaby and Broadwick Streets.
Kingly Court
0.2 km
A vibrant three-level Soho courtyard serving global cuisines and stylish bars just off iconic Carnaby Street.
British Tours
0.2 km
Discover the heart of London with British Tours, offering personalized experiences to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Kingly Ct
0.2 km
Discover Kingly Court, a colourful three-storey courtyard in Soho offering world-class dining, unique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere in London’s West End.
Ham Yard Hotel
0.2 km
A vibrant boutique hotel in Soho blending eclectic design, luxury amenities, and central London convenience in a lively yet tranquil setting.
Carnaby St
0.2 km
Explore Carnaby Street, London’s legendary pedestrianized shopping and dining district blending iconic fashion, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Soho
0.2 km
Discover Soho, London's vibrant district known for nightlife, dining, unique shops, and rich cultural experiences, perfect for every traveler.
Lyric Theatre
0.2 km
London’s oldest surviving theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, blending historic charm with world-class musicals and drama in the heart of the West End.
Hamleys
0.2 km
Discover the magic of Hamleys, London's iconic toy store, where imagination comes to life with seven floors of endless fun and excitement.
Berwick Street Market
0.2 km
Historic Soho market blending fresh produce, global street food, and iconic vinyl culture in the heart of London.
Savile Row
0.3 km
Savile Row, London’s legendary street, is the global heart of bespoke tailoring, where tradition meets timeless style and craftsmanship.
The London Pavillion
0.3 km
A historic West End landmark blending Victorian theatrical grandeur with modern urban culture in the heart of London’s Shaftesbury Avenue.
Picturehouse Central
0.3 km
Experience cinema in style at Picturehouse Central, a vibrant West End venue blending heritage charm with modern luxury and diverse film programming.
Las Vegas Arcade Soho
0.3 km
A lively Soho basement arcade offering classic and rhythm games, pool, and air hockey in a vibrant, social setting.
Essential places to dine
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.1 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
NOPI
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Mele e Pere
0.1 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Kricket Soho
0.2 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Bantof
0.2 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.2 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.2 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Social Eating House
0.2 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Evelyn's Table
0.3 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
sketch
0.3 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Blanchette
0.3 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Inamo
0.4 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Little Social
0.4 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
Gauthier Soho
0.4 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.1 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.2 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Machine-A
0.2 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Canvas Collection
0.3 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Pop Up 38
0.3 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.3 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
La Boutik
0.4 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Fortnum & Mason
0.4 km
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.4 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.4 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.4 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.
Burlington Arcade
0.4 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Disrepute - Soho
0.1 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.
Cahoots London
0.1 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Duke of Argyll
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.2 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
Basement Sate
0.3 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.4 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.4 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.4 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
NQ64 Soho
0.4 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
The Nellie Dean
0.4 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.4 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
The Black Book
0.5 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
Bar Soho
0.5 km
A theatrical two‑floor cocktail bar on Old Compton Street — daytime drinks and late‑night DJs for dancing, private hire and people‑watching in the heart of Soho.
The Argyll Arms
0.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.2 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Sunset night club
0.2 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.
The Cuckoo Club
0.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Box Soho
0.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.3 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
0.3 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
St Moritz Club
0.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Scotch of St James
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Bordello London
0.5 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
0.5 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
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.
La Capannina Club
0.5 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Club49Soho
0.5 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
