Apothecaries' Hall: Historic Livery Venue in London
Historic 17th-century livery hall near St Paul’s, blending rich heritage with elegant event spaces and timeless charm.
Apothecaries' Hall is a distinguished 17th-century livery hall located on Black Friars Lane in London, near St Paul’s Cathedral. Renowned for its richly oak-paneled Great Hall with stained glass windows and period antiques, it serves as a prestigious venue for events, ceremonies, and receptions. The Hall’s historic charm, coupled with intimate rooms like the Court Room and Parlour, offers a unique glimpse into the heritage of the Society of Apothecaries and London's livery traditions.
A brief summary to Apothecaries' Hall
- Black Friars Ln, London, EC4V 6ER, GB
- +442072361189
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book events well in advance, especially for formal dinners and livery ceremonies, as the Hall is a sought-after venue.
- Explore the Court Room and Parlour for smaller, intimate gatherings with historic ambiance.
- Visit during Open House London for special public access and guided tours showcasing the Hall’s architecture and collections.
- Contact the venue ahead if you require step-free access or have other accessibility needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Blackfriars Station is a 1-minute walk from Apothecaries' Hall, served by Thameslink and Southeastern trains. Travel times vary by origin but central London connections are frequent and convenient. No parking at the station; fares start from £2.50 for short journeys.
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Tube
St Paul’s Underground Station is approximately a 6-minute walk, served by the Central Line. Trains run every 2-5 minutes during peak hours. Single fares within central London start around £2.40 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes, including 4, 11, 15, 26, 40, 63, and 76, stop near Blackfriars Lane. Buses run frequently throughout the day with a single fare of £1.75 using Oyster or contactless payment. Some routes operate 24 hours.
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Car
Driving to Apothecaries' Hall is possible but parking is limited and expensive in central London. Nearby public car parks charge £5-£10 per hour. Congestion and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges apply, so public transport is recommended.
Apothecaries' Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Apothecaries' Hall
A Storied Legacy in the Heart of London
Apothecaries' Hall stands as the headquarters of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries, one of the City of London's historic livery companies, established in the early 17th century. Nestled on Black Friars Lane, the Hall has survived centuries, including the Great Fire of London, preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. The Society itself played a pivotal role in the development of medicine and pharmacy in England, with roots tracing back to royal appointments such as Gideon de Laune, apothecary to Queen Anne of Denmark.Architectural Grandeur and Interior Highlights
The centerpiece of the Hall is the Great Hall, an oak-paneled space dating from 1671, featuring exquisite stained glass windows bearing coats of arms of past Masters and Officers. The hall’s high ceiling, minstrels' gallery with wrought-iron balustrades, and carved Corinthian columns evoke a sense of period grandeur. Adjacent to the Great Hall are the Court Room and Parlour, smaller but equally atmospheric rooms adorned with dark oak paneling, portraits, and antique apothecary jars, offering intimate settings for receptions and meetings.A Venue for Ceremonial and Cultural Events
Apothecaries' Hall functions as a distinguished events venue, hosting a variety of occasions including corporate functions, charity events, formal dinners, and livery company ceremonies. Its historic ambiance and elegant interiors provide a unique backdrop for gatherings ranging from large-scale dinners accommodating up to 200 guests in the Great Hall to smaller receptions in the Parlour. The secluded courtyard, accessed through French doors, offers a charming outdoor space for summer events.Preservation and Modern Accessibility
Despite its age, the Hall has been sensitively refurbished to include modern amenities such as air cooling and a new lift, ensuring accessibility including step-free access to key areas. The building remains remarkably intact, having escaped damage during World War II, allowing visitors to experience an authentic historic environment enhanced by careful conservation efforts.Connection to London's Livery Tradition and Medicine
The Society of Apothecaries, based here, continues its mission in medical education, history, and charity. The Hall houses collections of apothecary jars, pill tiles, and portraits that reflect the evolution of pharmacy and medicine. It also hosts events linked to the history and philosophy of medicine, maintaining a vibrant cultural and educational presence within London’s livery community.Atmosphere and Location
Set just a short walk from landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Old Bailey, Apothecaries' Hall is accessed via a cobbled lane that retains the historic character of the area. The atmosphere combines solemnity and warmth, with the oak interiors and stained glass casting a timeless ambiance that transports visitors back to the 17th and 18th centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ludgate Circus
0.2 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Victoria Embankment
0.2 km
A historic riverside promenade in London blending Victorian engineering, scenic gardens, iconic monuments, and stunning Thames views.
Queen Anne Statue
0.2 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Temple Bar London
0.3 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.4 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
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.
Hare Pl
0.4 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Holborn Viaduct
0.5 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
Prince Henry's Room
0.5 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
South Bank Community Area
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.6 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Bleeding Heart Yard
0.8 km
London's most haunted courtyard, where Gothic legend meets gritty Victorian history beneath ancient cobblestones.
St Clement Danes Church
0.8 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Church Entry
0.1 km
Discover Church Entry, a narrow medieval alley in Blackfriars tracing the ancient Blackfriars Priory’s sacred church line beneath modern London.
The Blackfriar
0.1 km
A Grade II* listed Art Nouveau pub on the site of a medieval Dominican friary, packed with friar-themed carvings, mosaics, and stained glass in the heart of London.
Shakespeare in the City Walk
0.2 km
Discover Shakespeare’s London through hidden alleys, historic sites, and live performances on this immersive two-hour walking tour starting at Blackfriars Station.
St Martin Ludgate
0.2 km
Discover St Martin Ludgate, a serene Wren church blending Roman history and 17th-century elegance in the heart of London’s ancient city.
City of London Distillery & Bar
0.2 km
Discover London’s historic gin distillery and cocktail bar, blending tradition, innovation, and over 130 gins in a stylish subterranean setting.
Punch Tavern
0.2 km
Discover The Punch Tavern, a historic pub on Fleet Street, serving traditional British fare and a vast selection of drinks in a charming atmosphere.
St Bride's Church, Fleet Street
0.2 km
Discover the historic heart of Fleet Street, where journalism, printing, and London’s past converge in a stunning Wren-designed church.
Stationers' Hall
0.2 km
Historic Grade I listed venue near St Paul’s Cathedral offering elegant event spaces and a secluded garden for weddings and corporate events.
College of Arms
0.3 km
Explore centuries of heraldic tradition at the historic College of Arms, London's official authority on coats of arms and genealogy.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of St. Paul's Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in the heart of London, offering stunning views and rich history.
Fleet St
0.4 km
Historic London street famed as the traditional home of British journalism, rich in literary heritage and hidden urban secrets.
The Viaduct Tavern, EC1
0.4 km
Step into a lavish Victorian gin palace where London’s legal history and ghostly tales converge beneath ornate ceilings and historic cellars.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.4 km
Discover the charming bronze statue of Hodge, Samuel Johnson's beloved cat, perched on a dictionary in historic Gough Square, London.
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.
Holy Sepulchre Church
0.4 km
Discover Holy Sepulchre London, the largest City parish church, famed as the National Musicians’ Church with centuries of history and vibrant worship.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.6 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.8 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
St. John
0.9 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
1.0 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Wahaca Southbank
1.1 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.1 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Sarastro
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.2 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.2 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Strada Southbank
1.3 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.3 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
The Archduke
1.3 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Balthazar
1.3 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.6 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.6 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Twinings - The Strand
0.7 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Sugar And Style
0.7 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
London Silver Vaults
0.8 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
The Store X
0.8 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
1 Poultry
0.9 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
The Old Curiosity Shop
1.0 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Barbican Shop
1.0 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
not just a shop
1.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
The Royal Exchange
1.1 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Borough Yards
1.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.3 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Parrot
0.2 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.5 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
0.6 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Understudy
0.9 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.0 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
1.2 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.
Plume Wine Bar
1.2 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.2 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.2 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.2 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.2 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Beaufort Bar
1.2 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.
Be At One - Russell Street
1.2 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.
American Bar
1.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.3 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.9 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Proud Late
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Carwash Nightclub
1.2 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
1.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Cirque Du Soul
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
1.6 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
1.6 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.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.6 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.7 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.
Ministry of Sound
1.7 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Ivy Club
1.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
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