Duke of York Square
Chelsea's elegant fusion of heritage and contemporary culture, where shopping, dining, and art converge in a traffic-free piazza.
A sophisticated shopping and dining destination in Chelsea, Duke of York Square blends historic architecture with contemporary design across a traffic-free piazza. Originally built as a military orphanage in 1801, this award-winning development features over 30 curated retailers including one of Europe's largest Zara stores, seven restaurants with extensive outdoor seating, and the prestigious Saatchi Gallery. The square hosts London's finest Saturday artisan food market and regular cultural events, making it an elegant retreat on the King's Road.
A brief summary to Duke of York Square
- 80 King's Rd, London, SW3 4LY, GB
- +442078235577
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Saturday morning for the artisan fine food market, featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors—one of London's finest weekly markets.
- Explore the Saatchi Gallery at the square's heart; check their current exhibitions before visiting, as programming includes major contemporary art shows and international art fairs.
- Arrive early on weekdays (Monday–Friday mornings) to experience the square at its quietest, ideal for photography and leisurely browsing without crowds.
- Use public transport via Sloane Square Underground (5-minute walk) rather than driving; parking is extremely limited and public transport is far more convenient.
- Check the events calendar for seasonal programming including Chelsea History Festival (September), Chelsea Dog Day (October), and festive Christmas activations throughout December.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
Sloane Square Underground Station is the nearest, located approximately 400 metres away with a 5-minute walk to Duke of York Square. The Piccadilly and District lines serve this station. Victoria and Knightsbridge stations offer step-free access alternatives, each approximately 600–700 metres away with 8–10 minute walks. Trains run frequently throughout the day; typical journey times from central London are 10–20 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve King's Road and the Chelsea area, including routes 11, 19, 22, and 319. Buses stop near Duke of York Square with typical frequencies of 5–15 minutes during peak hours. Journey times vary depending on your starting location and traffic conditions, but central London to King's Road typically takes 20–40 minutes.
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Walking
From Sloane Square Underground, Duke of York Square is a straightforward 5-minute walk south along King's Road. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through Chelsea's vibrant streetscape. From other nearby landmarks like the Royal Hospital Chelsea or Battersea Park, walking times range from 10–20 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Car and Parking
Parking in the area is very limited; public transport is strongly recommended. If driving, nearby car parks include NCP Cadogan Place (approximately 200 metres away, with Blue Badge accessible bays), Chelsea Cloisters (approximately 300 metres away, offering valet parking), and Sloane Square Car Park. Expect to pay £2–5 per hour depending on the car park and time of day. On-street parking bays are available but often full, particularly during weekends and market days.
Duke of York Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Duke of York Square
A Historic Transformation on King's Road
Duke of York Square stands as a remarkable urban regeneration project on London's iconic King's Road in Chelsea. Originally constructed in 1801 as a school for military orphans, the site later became the headquarters of the Duke of York's army barracks—a private Ministry of Defence facility largely inaccessible to the public. When Cadogan acquired the property in 1998, it underwent a comprehensive redevelopment that created the first new public square in London's West End for over a century. This award-winning masterplan transformed a site previously dominated by an inaccessible car park into a vibrant, pedestrian-focused destination that seamlessly fuses classical heritage architecture with contemporary design.Retail and Lifestyle Excellence
The square showcases a carefully curated retail mix of 33 stores, balancing established international brands with independent boutiques. One of Europe's largest Zara stores anchors the fashion offering, while British jeweller Monica Vinader, interior design specialists Soho Home, cult beauty brand Aesop, and denim experts Trilogy occupy prominent flagship positions. Additional retailers include Joseph, Boden, Space NK, Dubarry, Self-Portrait, and Paige, alongside a glamorous beauty quarter featuring Dermalogica. This thoughtful retail selection attracts both serious shoppers and casual browsers seeking quality over quantity, creating an atmosphere distinct from typical high-street shopping centres.Culinary Destination and Market Culture
Duke of York Square has established itself as a gourmet hub with seven restaurants and cafes, all featuring extensive outdoor seating that transforms the piazza into an al fresco dining experience. A striking recent addition—designed through an international architectural competition—features the UK's first fully retractable curved windows, allowing seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor dining. The square's Saturday artisan fine food market ranks among London's finest, drawing food enthusiasts with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors. Beyond regular dining and markets, the square hosts seasonal events including Chinese New Year celebrations with dragon dancers and live entertainment, Halloween festivities, and festive Christmas programming.Cultural and Wellness Programming
At the heart of Duke of York Square sits the iconic Saatchi Gallery, one of London's most significant contemporary art institutions. The square itself functions as a cultural venue, hosting regular free outdoor yoga classes, weekly running groups, and rotating public art activations. Recent exhibitions and art fairs, including the FOCUS Art Fair featuring galleries from East Asia and Southeast Asia, demonstrate the venue's commitment to contemporary culture. The vibrant community programming extends to the Chelsea History Festival, Chelsea Dog Day celebrations, and the Chelsea Art Market, positioning the square as a cultural gathering place beyond retail and dining.Design and Public Realm
The architectural approach prioritises pedestrian experience and public accessibility. The context-sensitive design draws visitors into the square through a series of interconnected public spaces, creating natural gathering points and sightlines. The piazza's generous open layout accommodates market stalls, outdoor seating, and cultural events without feeling cramped. Recent planning approvals (2024) unlock further private space to be converted into a third public square with additional outdoor dining, signalling continued evolution. Seasonal floral installations, such as the vibrant makeover of the Arcade Tunnel, add visual interest and Instagram-worthy moments throughout the year.Location and Accessibility
Situated on King's Road in Chelsea, Duke of York Square benefits from excellent transport connections and proximity to London's cultural landmarks. Sloane Square Underground Station lies a five-minute walk away, while Victoria and Knightsbridge stations offer step-free access alternatives. The Thames, Royal Hospital Chelsea, and Battersea Park with its Peace Pagoda are all within easy reach, embedding the square within Chelsea's broader cultural and natural landscape. Parking in the area is limited; visitors are encouraged to use public transport, though nearby car parks including NCP Cadogan Place and Chelsea Cloisters provide options for those arriving by car.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chelsea Old Town Hall
0.8 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
Empire House
0.9 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Béla Bartók Memorial
1.0 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
37 Thurloe St
1.1 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Albert Bridge
1.1 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Cheyne Walk
1.2 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Little Ben Clock
1.3 km
Discover Little Ben, London’s charming miniature clock tower echoing Big Ben’s grandeur and symbolizing enduring Franco-British friendship.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.4 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Historic Houses
1.4 km
Explore the heart of Britain's heritage through Historic Houses, a gateway to centuries-old castles, gardens, and stately homes across the UK.
Wellington Arch
1.4 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.4 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Machine Gun Corps Memorial
1.5 km
A striking WWI memorial at Hyde Park Corner, blending classical art and the harsh realities of mechanized warfare to honor the Machine Gun Corps’ sacrifice.
Thomas Cubitt statue
1.5 km
Explore the Thomas Cubitt statue in Pimlico, a stunning homage to London's architectural legacy, set amidst charming Victorian streets.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
1.5 km
A whimsical royal tribute marking the entrance to Hyde Park since 1993.
Bomber Command Memorial
1.5 km
A powerful tribute in Portland stone and bronze to the 55,573 RAF Bomber Command aircrew who lost their lives in WWII, set in the heart of Green Park, London.
Unmissable attractions to see
King's Rd
0.1 km
Explore King’s Road, Chelsea’s legendary street blending iconic fashion history with vibrant modern shopping and culture.
Innofinity Worldwide
0.2 km
Discover Innofinity Worldwide at Sloane Square, London’s trusted destination for quality used iPhones and innovative e-commerce experiences.
Sloane Square
0.2 km
An elegant London square where Chelsea’s luxury shopping, culture and high society meet, centred on the Venus Fountain and framed by Peter Jones and the Royal Court Theatre.
St Simon Zelotes
0.4 km
Discover the serene blend of evangelical faith and historic Anglican tradition at St Simon Zelotes in the heart of Chelsea, London.
Royal Hospital Chelsea
0.5 km
Historic home and sanctuary for British Army veterans, blending stunning 17th-century architecture with a living military heritage in London.
Barts
0.5 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
National Army Museum
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and personal stories of the British Army through interactive galleries and engaging exhibits in Chelsea’s premier military museum.
Sloane St
0.6 km
Sloane Street: London’s iconic luxury shopping street blending designer boutiques, fine dining, and elegant urban living in Chelsea and Belgravia.
St Luke’s Gardens
0.7 km
A historic and tranquil Chelsea garden blending Neo-Gothic heritage with vibrant green spaces and family-friendly recreation.
St Luke's & Christ Church
0.7 km
Discover St Luke's & Christ Church, Chelsea — a historic Gothic Revival Anglican parish blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community spirit.
Chelsea Physic Garden
0.8 km
Explore London’s oldest botanic garden, a historic sanctuary of medicinal plants and botanical heritage since 1673.
Thin House
0.9 km
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
Knightsbridge
0.9 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Harrods
0.9 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
Big Bus Tours London
0.9 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks at your own pace with Big Bus Tours’ flexible hop-on hop-off routes and panoramic open-top buses.
Essential places to dine
Rabbit
0.5 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
The Grenadier
1.2 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
The Jam
1.2 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.2 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Town House Kensington
1.3 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
The English Grill
1.4 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
1.5 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.7 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
Colosseo Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
1.9 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
1.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
2.0 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
HIDE
2.0 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Caxton Grill
2.0 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
The Pem
2.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
0.7 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
V&A Shop
1.0 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
Science Museum Shop
1.2 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
The Natural History Museum Shop
1.2 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Cool Britannia
1.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
1.4 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
The Queen's Shop
1.5 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.6 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Shepherd Market
1.9 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Thomas Goode & Co
2.0 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Lock & Co. Hatters
2.2 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
2.2 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
2.2 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
2.3 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Westminster Abbey Shop
2.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
0.9 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
K Bar
1.3 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
Bbar
1.4 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
1.4 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
1.5 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
1.6 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Bar 190
1.7 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
All Bar One Victoria
1.7 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
Adam & Eve
1.9 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Below
2.0 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Blue Boar Pub
2.1 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Morpeth Arms
2.2 km
Historic Thameside pub with cask ales, hearty fare, haunted cellars, and MI6 views— a Westminster gem blending Victorian ghosts and modern cheer.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
2.2 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
The Builders Arms
2.2 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Stables Bar
2.2 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dolce Night Club , London
1.1 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
1.3 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Metric
1.6 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.2 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.2 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Scotch of St James
2.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
2.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Lightbox London
2.6 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Union
2.6 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
2.6 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.6 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Fire Nightclub
2.6 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
2.7 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
TSQ Club
2.7 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Tiger Tiger London
2.8 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly