No 1 Poultry: Postmodern Icon in the Heart of London's Financial District
A striking postmodern landmark in London’s financial heart, blending bold design, rich history, and panoramic rooftop views.
No 1 Poultry is a striking postmodern office and retail building located at the apex of Poultry and Queen Victoria Street in London's historic financial district. Completed in 1997 and designed by Sir James Stirling, it features bold pink and yellow limestone cladding, a dramatic atrium, and a rooftop garden with panoramic city views. This Grade II* listed building blends architectural audacity with rich historical layers, standing opposite the Royal Exchange and Bank of England.
A brief summary to 1 Poultry
- 1 Poultry, London, EC2R 8EN, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the rooftop garden for spectacular panoramic views of the City skyline and a tranquil green space.
- Look up to spot the historic terracotta frieze salvaged from the Victorian Mansion Buildings, depicting British monarchs.
- Explore the colorful interior atrium to appreciate James Stirling’s playful use of vibrant tiles and natural light.
- Dine or enjoy a drink at the Coq d’Argent restaurant atop the building, known for its formal garden and city views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Bank Underground Station is the closest tube stop, approximately a 5-minute walk from No 1 Poultry. It serves multiple lines including Central, Northern, and DLR, providing frequent service throughout the day with fares starting around £2.50.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Bank junction, including routes 8, 11, 26, and 76. Buses run regularly, with journey times varying depending on traffic, and a standard Oyster/contactless fare applies.
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Taxi
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services can drop you directly at No 1 Poultry. Travel times from central London vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically starting around £10.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in the City or at the Royal Exchange area, walking to No 1 Poultry is easy and takes about 10 to 15 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and well-signposted.
1 Poultry location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 1 Poultry
A Bold Statement in Postmodern Architecture
No 1 Poultry stands as one of London’s most distinctive postmodern buildings, designed by the acclaimed architect Sir James Stirling. Conceived in 1985 and completed in 1997, five years after Stirling’s death, the building showcases his signature use of bold colors and geometric forms. Its exterior is clad in alternating bands of rose-pink and muted yellow limestone, creating a striking striped effect that commands attention amid the classic grandeur of the City of London’s financial core. The building’s wedge-shaped apex, resembling the prow of a ship or a submarine conning tower, surges into the street, making it an arresting architectural landmark.Historic Layers and Urban Context
Situated at the confluence of Poultry and Queen Victoria Street near Bank junction, No 1 Poultry occupies a site rich in history. Beneath its modern facade lies a legacy stretching back to Roman London, with archaeological finds including mosaics and artifacts uncovered during construction. The building replaced a cluster of Victorian-era structures, some of which were salvaged and integrated into the new development, such as the decorative terracotta frieze featuring British monarchs like Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria. This layering of history is reflected in the building’s complex spatial design and material palette, blending modernity with echoes of the past.Interior Features and Rooftop Garden
Inside, the building centers around a colorful atrium flooded with natural light from lunette windows, contrasting with the darker outer ring of the interior. The use of bright blue, hot pink, and lemon yellow tiles adds vibrancy to the space, characteristic of Stirling’s playful approach to color. Atop the building sits a half-acre rooftop garden, complete with colonnades and lawns that extend over the street below. This green oasis offers some of the best panoramic views of the City skyline, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling financial district.Mixed-Use Functionality and Cultural Significance
No 1 Poultry serves a dual purpose as a commercial office space and retail hub, including the renowned Coq d’Argent restaurant on its top floor, featuring a terrace and formal garden. The building’s prominence was highlighted during the 2012 London Olympic Games when it appeared in the opening ceremony segment featuring James Bond and Queen Elizabeth II. Despite initial controversy and polarized opinions—once voted among London’s worst buildings—it has since been recognized for its architectural significance and was granted Grade II* listed status in 2016, making it one of the youngest protected buildings in England.Architectural Details and Artistic Elements
The building’s facades feature concertinaed sandstone piers supporting granite slabs, creating a dynamic interplay of lightness and heaviness. The apex’s large arch and pointed window set draw inspiration from historic elements like the west front of St Mary Woolnoth church, reinterpreted through a postmodern lens. Visitors can also spot the historic Mappin & Webb clock in the external atrium and the salvaged Victorian frieze panels that add narrative depth to the structure. These artistic details enrich the building’s character, offering layers of discovery beyond its bold exterior.Legacy and Urban Impact
No 1 Poultry exemplifies the complex dialogue between modern architectural ambition and the historic fabric of London’s financial district. It challenges traditional aesthetics with its unapologetic postmodern style, reflecting the evolving identity of the City. As a functional commercial space combined with public amenities like the rooftop garden and restaurant, it remains a vibrant part of the urban landscape. Its Grade II* listing ensures its preservation, securing its place as a landmark that continues to inspire debate and admiration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.2 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
London Stone (remaining part)
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Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
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A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.3 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Historic England
0.3 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Cornhill Fountain
0.3 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.5 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
20 Fenchurch St
0.5 km
Iconic London skyscraper with a unique top-heavy design, featuring the Sky Garden — a free public rooftop oasis with panoramic city views and dining.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.5 km
Wren's masterpiece: climb London's most iconic dome for breathtaking city views and centuries of history.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
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.
Southwark Bridge
0.6 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
Lloyd's of London
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A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
College of Arms
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Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
London City Wall - Bastion 14
0.6 km
Explore Bastion 14, a medieval bastion built on Roman foundations, revealing centuries of London’s ancient city defenses in the Barbican.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mansion House
0.1 km
Explore Mansion House, the grand Palladian residence of the Lord Mayor of London, rich with history, art, and ceremonial splendor.
St Stephen Walbrook
0.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic grandeur of St Stephen Walbrook, Wren’s architectural gem with its iconic dome and modern artistic altar.
London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE
0.1 km
Discover the ancient Roman Temple of Mithras beneath Bloomberg’s headquarters in a captivating blend of archaeology, immersive art, and history in London’s heart.
City of London
0.1 km
Discover the City of London’s unique fusion of ancient history and modern finance in the vibrant Square Mile.
Bloomberg Arcade
0.1 km
A vibrant blend of independent dining, public art, and Roman history in the heart of London’s Square Mile.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.2 km
Historic Anglican church in London’s financial district, blending striking Baroque architecture with rich heritage and vibrant community life.
St Mary Aldermary
0.2 km
Discover St Mary Aldermary, a rare 17th-century Gothic Revival church by Wren’s office, blending medieval roots with stunning architecture in London’s City.
St Margaret Lothbury
0.2 km
Discover St Margaret Lothbury, a Baroque masterpiece by Christopher Wren nestled in London's financial heart, rich with history and exquisite woodwork.
The Royal Exchange
0.2 km
A historic neoclassical landmark in London’s financial heart, blending centuries of commerce with luxury shopping and fine dining.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
0.2 km
Discover St Mary-le-Bow, the iconic Wren church on Cheapside, home to the legendary Bow Bells and centuries of London history.
Bank of England Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 300 years of British financial history and try lifting a real gold bar at this free, interactive museum in the heart of London’s financial district.
St Mary Abchurch
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of St Mary Abchurch, a historic church designed by Sir Christopher Wren in London's financial district, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Lombard St
0.2 km
Discover Lombard Street, London’s medieval banking hub where historic signs and financial legacy meet in the heart of the City.
London's Roman Amphitheatre
0.3 km
Step beneath Guildhall Yard to explore London’s only Roman amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old arena of gladiators, wild beasts, and ancient spectacle.
Change Alley
0.3 km
Historic passageway in London’s financial heart, where coffee houses sparked the birth of modern stock trading and commerce.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.3 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
14 Hills
0.7 km
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La Dame de Pic London
0.9 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.0 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.
George
1.0 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.1 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
St. John
1.1 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
1.2 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.3 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Restaurant Story
1.5 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.5 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Lyle's
1.5 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.7 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.7 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barbican Shop
0.8 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Borough Yards
0.8 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Traders Gate
0.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Hay's Galleria
1.0 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower of London Shop
1.0 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Smithfield Market
1.0 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Middlesex Textiles
1.0 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.0 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Spitalfields Market
1.2 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Commercial St
1.3 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
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.
Fashion St
1.3 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Sclater Street Market
1.3 km
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Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Demon, Wise & Partners
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
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The Bootlegger
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The Alchemist Bevis Marks
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The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
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Moonshine Saloon
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Dirty Dicks
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The Astronomer, EC1
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The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
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Black Parrot
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Flight Club Shoreditch
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Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Punch Tavern
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Aviary
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Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
The Bell
1.1 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Old Street
1.1 km
A vibrant and stylish cocktail bar in London’s Old Street area, known for creative drinks and a lively urban atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Postmodern
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
