Bedford Square Gardens: London's Finest Georgian Garden Square
Discover Bedford Square Gardens, London’s finest Georgian square with elegant architecture and a tranquil, historic private garden.
Bedford Square Gardens in Bloomsbury, London, is a pristine example of Georgian urban design, laid out between 1775 and 1783. Surrounded by Grade I listed terraced townhouses with distinctive Coade-stone entrances, the large oval garden at its center features mature London plane trees, herbaceous borders, and a restored summerhouse. Though the gardens are private, they open annually during Open Garden Squares Weekend, offering a glimpse into one of London’s most elegant and historically rich squares.
A brief summary to Bedford Square Gardens
- Bedford Square, London, WC1B 3HH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the annual Open Garden Squares Weekend in June to access the private gardens.
- Admire the Grade I listed Georgian terraced houses surrounding the square, notable for their uniform ‘palace-front’ design.
- Look for blue plaques on buildings commemorating notable past residents such as Lord Eldon and Henry Cavendish.
- Enjoy the mature London plane trees and herbaceous borders within the garden, a peaceful green space in central London.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Tottenham Court Road station, approximately a 4-minute walk from Bedford Square. The station is served by the Central and Northern lines, with frequent services throughout the day. Tickets cost around £2.50–£5.00 depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus
Use local bus services stopping at Great Russell Street, about a 4-minute walk from Bedford Square. Buses 8, 19, and 38 serve this stop regularly. Single fares typically range from £1.75 to £2.50 with contactless payment.
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Train
London Euston railway station is approximately a 20-minute walk from Bedford Square. It serves national and regional rail services. Walking routes are mostly flat and accessible, but taxis or buses are available for convenience.
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Walking
If staying nearby, Bedford Square is accessible on foot via flat, paved streets typical of central London. Walking times vary but expect 10–20 minutes from central Bloomsbury locations. The area is pedestrian-friendly with ample sidewalks.
Bedford Square Gardens 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 Bedford Square Gardens
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Denmark St
0.4 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.4 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
190 High Holborn
0.6 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Sicilian Avenue
0.6 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Historic Seven Dials
0.6 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.6 km
Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.6 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Tavistock Square
0.7 km
Explore Tavistock Square, a beautiful garden and historical landmark in London, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.7 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Mercer Walk
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting Mercer Walk in London, a charming alley brimming with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artistic flair that captures the city's spirit.
Soho
0.7 km
London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Fitzroy Square
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fitzroy Square, a historic garden square in London, where elegance meets tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy.
The Photographers' Gallery
0.8 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Slingsby Place
0.8 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.8 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
0.1 km
Discover the serene elegance and rich history of Bedford Square & Montague Place, London's finest Georgian architectural oasis in Bloomsbury.
The British Museum
0.2 km
Explore over two million years of human history and culture beneath the iconic Greek Revival façade and stunning Great Court of the British Museum.
Hasdan
0.2 km
Discover Hasdan, a vibrant cultural attraction nestled in the heart of London’s dynamic Tottenham Court Road district.
Dominion Theatre
0.3 km
Step into the spotlight at Dominion Theatre, London’s grand West End venue hosting blockbuster musicals like The Devil Wears Prada in a stunning art deco setting.
1 Soho Place
0.3 km
Contemporary business park in the heart of Soho, blending modern workspaces with London's vibrant cultural scene.
Goodge St
0.4 km
Discover Goodge Street, a historic Fitzrovia street blending Georgian charm, wartime heritage, and vibrant urban life in central London.
Priscilla The Party
0.4 km
Experience the dazzling, immersive drag musical party inspired by Priscilla Queen of the Desert at HERE at Outernet, Soho’s cutting-edge venue.
Torrington Square
0.4 km
A tranquil university-owned garden square in Bloomsbury blending historic heritage with academic vibrancy and green respite.
Pollocks Toy Museum
0.4 km
A whimsical journey through Victorian toys and childhood history in London’s charming Pollock’s Toy Museum.
12 Bar Club
0.4 km
Historic London music venue famed for intimate gigs, antifolk festivals, and a vibrant independent spirit on legendary Denmark Street.
St George's Church, Bloomsbury.
0.4 km
Discover St George’s Church, Bloomsbury, Hawksmoor’s last English Baroque masterpiece crowned by its iconic stepped spire and rich historical legacy.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
0.4 km
Experience iconic West End theatre in a historic, steel-framed London venue renowned for its rich heritage and outstanding performances.
St Giles in the Fields
0.4 km
Explore St Giles in the Fields, a stunning Anglican church in London, rich in history and architectural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat in the city.
Soho Square
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Soho Square, a vibrant public garden in London's West End, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Soho Square Gardens
0.4 km
A serene historic garden square in the heart of Soho, blending royal heritage with tranquil green space and vibrant cultural life.
Essential places to dine
The Ninth
0.3 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Noble Rot Soho
0.5 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Quo Vadis
0.6 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Inamo
0.6 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Hoppers Soho
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Circus
0.6 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.6 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Blanchette
0.6 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.7 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Gauthier Soho
0.7 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Social Eating House
0.7 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Margot
0.7 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Primark
0.3 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Fancy That of London
0.3 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.3 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Radha's Boutique
0.4 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
Souvenir Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.4 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.6 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Good
0.6 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
House of secrets
0.6 km
Step into House of Secrets on Oxford Street and discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and enchanting souvenirs in the heart of London.
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates
0.6 km
Artisan chocolate craftsmanship in the heart of Soho, where award-winning sea salted caramels and inventive flavours await.
Berwick St
0.6 km
London's legendary market where 18th-century tradition meets contemporary street food culture and vinyl heritage.
Reckless Records
0.6 km
Discover music history and rare vinyl in the heart of Soho at Reckless Records, London’s iconic independent record shop.
Sounds of the Universe
0.6 km
Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coral Room
0.2 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
Punch Room
0.5 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.5 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.5 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.5 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.5 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.6 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Swift Soho
0.6 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
NQ64 Soho
0.6 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Bar Termini
0.6 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
The Escapologist Bar
0.6 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Spice Of Life
0.6 km
Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
The Black Book
0.6 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.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
0.6 km
Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
101 Nightclub London
0.6 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
The Roxy
0.6 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.
St Moritz Club
0.6 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.7 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Ivy Club
0.7 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Sunset night club
0.7 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 Box Soho
0.8 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Carwash Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 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
0.8 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.9 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- 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
