Bedford Square Gardens: London's Finest Georgian Garden Square

Architectural Harmony and Historical Origins

Bedford Square was constructed between 1775 and 1783, primarily designed by architect Thomas Leverton and built by contractors William Scott and Robert Grews. It stands as the finest and most complete Georgian square in London, embodying the architectural ideals of the late 18th century. The square was developed on land owned by the Dukes of Bedford, who played a pivotal role in shaping Bloomsbury’s urban landscape. The uniformity of the facades, with their elegant brickwork, wrought-iron balconies, and Coade-stone door surrounds, gives the square a ‘palace-front’ appearance, where rows of terraced houses resemble a single grand mansion. Virtually all the buildings are Grade I listed, preserving their historic character and architectural details.

The Private Garden: A Green Oasis with a Storied Past

At the heart of Bedford Square lies its private garden, a large oval lawn enclosed by pre-war iron railings. The garden’s design has evolved since its inception, originally featuring perimeter shrubbery and serpentine paths leading to a central pavilion. In the late 19th century, the garden was redesigned by Joseph Fyfe Meston, who removed the central paths and pavilion to create the present open lawn surrounded by mature London plane trees and herbaceous borders. The garden holds Grade II* listed status, reflecting its historic and horticultural significance. Access to the garden is restricted, but it opens to the public annually during the Open Garden Squares Weekend.

Notable Residents and Cultural Legacy

Bedford Square has housed a distinguished array of residents, including Lord Chancellor Lord Eldon, scientist Henry Cavendish who discovered hydrogen, and social reformer Elizabeth Jesser Reid. The square’s buildings have also accommodated important cultural institutions such as the Sotheby’s Institute of Art and Yale University Press. Blue plaques on several buildings commemorate its illustrious occupants, underscoring Bedford Square’s role as a hub of intellectual, political, and scientific activity over the centuries.

Preservation and Urban Significance

The exceptional preservation of Bedford Square is largely due to the stewardship of the Bedford Estate, which has maintained the square’s architectural integrity and garden since its creation. Unlike many London squares, Bedford Square’s original layout and character remain intact, offering a rare glimpse into Georgian urban planning. The square’s design set the template for many subsequent garden squares in London, influencing the city’s development throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Contemporary Use and Visitor Experience

Today, Bedford Square functions primarily as office space within its historic buildings, with limited residential use. The garden remains a tranquil green space in central London, providing a peaceful retreat amid the city bustle. While the garden is generally private, its opening during the annual Open Garden Squares Weekend allows visitors to experience its serene beauty and historic ambiance. The square’s location near Tottenham Court Road and the British Museum makes it an accessible and enriching destination for those interested in London’s architectural heritage and garden squares.

Gardening and Landscape Features

The garden’s mature London plane trees create a shaded canopy, complemented by well-tended herbaceous perennials and shrub borders. A restored summerhouse offers shelter and adds to the garden’s charm. The garden’s hard-surfaced entrances and shingle paths provide accessibility, though the interior remains largely naturalistic and tranquil. Picnics are permitted during open days, enhancing the garden’s appeal as a peaceful urban oasis.