Hatton Garden: London's Historic Jewellery and Bullion Quarter
Discover Hatton Garden, London’s historic jewellery quarter where royal gardens gave way to a world-renowned hub of craftsmanship, commerce, and captivating stories.
Hatton Garden, located in London's Holborn district, is the renowned epicenter of the UK’s jewellery trade and bullion market. With roots dating back to the 16th century, this historic area evolved from the estate of Sir Christopher Hatton into a bustling hub for skilled jewellers, gemologists, and precious metal traders. Its cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, and underground vaults tell stories of craftsmanship, commerce, and infamous heists, making it a captivating destination for history and jewellery enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Hatton Garden
- London, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore the hidden courtyards and narrow alleys to experience the historic atmosphere beyond the main streets.
- Visit during weekdays to see jewellers and craftsmen at work in their workshops.
- Learn about the famous Hatton Garden heists for a dramatic insight into the area’s modern history.
- Combine your visit with a stroll to nearby Leather Lane Market for vibrant street food and local culture.
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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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Farringdon or Chancery Lane stations, both within a 10-15 minute walk of Hatton Garden. The Tube offers frequent service, with fares ranging from £2.50 to £5 depending on the ticket type and time of day.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including the 8, 25, and 242, serve stops near Hatton Garden. Buses run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours, with a single fare of £1.75 using contactless payment or Oyster card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at Hatton Garden. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London depending on traffic. Expect fares starting around £10-£20.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Holborn or Clerkenwell, walking to Hatton Garden is a pleasant option, typically taking 10-20 minutes over mostly flat terrain with accessible pavements.
Hatton Garden 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 Hatton Garden
Origins and Royal Heritage
Hatton Garden's story begins in the late 16th century when Queen Elizabeth I granted the property of Ely Place, formerly the residence of the Bishops of Ely, to her close advisor Sir Christopher Hatton. The area, named after him, was originally distinguished by its beautiful gardens and orchards. During the Restoration period in the 17th century, the district was developed into a fashionable residential quarter with elegant townhouses laid out on a grid of streets. Despite the Great Fire of London in 1666 devastating much of the city, Hatton Garden remained intact, preserving its early charm and setting the stage for future growth.The Rise of a Jewellery Hub
By the 18th and 19th centuries, Hatton Garden transitioned from a residential district into a commercial center, attracting skilled artisans such as goldsmiths, clockmakers, and jewellers. The area's proximity to London’s financial district, including the Bank of England, facilitated the growth of the bullion trade and precious metals market. The importation of diamonds, especially following the discovery of the Kimberley diamond mine and the formation of De Beers in the late 1800s, cemented Hatton Garden’s global reputation as a leading diamond and gemstone trading center. Today, it remains home to over seventy jewellery shops and nearly three hundred related businesses.Architectural and Cultural Landscape
Hatton Garden's streetscape is a blend of historic Georgian townhouses, cobbled lanes, and modern developments. The area is dotted with narrow alleys, underground vaults, and secret courtyards, offering glimpses into its layered past. Notable locations such as Bleeding Heart Yard carry legends and stories, including the tragic tale of Lady Elizabeth Hatton, whose ghost is said to haunt the cobbles. The district’s architecture and atmosphere reflect centuries of craftsmanship, commerce, and London’s evolving urban fabric.Notorious Heists and Modern Legacy
The allure of Hatton Garden’s treasures has attracted criminals as well as customers. The district was the site of London’s largest jewellery robbery in 1993 when £7 million worth of gems were stolen from Graff Diamonds. More recently, the 2015 Hatton Garden safe deposit burglary shocked the world with its audacity, involving the theft of millions of pounds worth of valuables from underground vaults. These events have become part of the area's modern lore, adding a dramatic chapter to its storied history.Contemporary Vibrancy and Visitor Experience
Beyond its commercial significance, Hatton Garden is a vibrant neighborhood with a lively market scene, including the nearby Leather Lane Market known for street food and eclectic stalls. Stylish bars and restaurants have emerged, complementing the historic character with a modern social scene. Visitors can explore timber-framed pubs, artisan workshops, and elegant jewellery boutiques, immersing themselves in an area where tradition and innovation coexist.Enduring Importance in London's Fabric
Hatton Garden stands as a symbol of London’s rich heritage in craftsmanship and trade, maintaining its status as the heart of the UK’s jewellery industry. Its unique combination of history, culture, and commerce continues to attract global visitors and professionals alike. The district’s blend of royal origins, architectural beauty, and dynamic present-day life offers a compelling narrative of London’s past and future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Holborn Viaduct
0.4 km
A grand Victorian bridge spanning London's hidden Fleet valley, blending engineering innovation with ornate artistry and rich history.
3 Gunpowder Square
0.6 km
A modern square in London’s financial district commemorating the dramatic history of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes’ daring conspiracy.
Sir William Wallace Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
Hare Pl
0.7 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Ludgate Circus
0.7 km
Historic Victorian junction where London's ancient Ludgate once stood, blending rich legend, architecture, and urban vitality.
Prince Henry's Room
0.7 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.8 km
Historic gateway marking the City of London's boundary, crowned by a fierce dragon and rich with royal and civic heritage.
Temple Church
0.8 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.8 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece where British justice convenes beneath soaring pinnacles and intricate stone carvings.
St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
0.9 km
Historic 18th-century Anglican church with the UK's oldest working organ, blending rich heritage and serene city-edge charm in London.
St Clement Danes Church
0.9 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.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Temple Bar London
0.9 km
Explore Temple Bar, London’s historic ceremonial gateway rebuilt by Christopher Wren, rich with royal heritage and striking 17th-century architecture.
Sicilian Avenue
0.9 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Queen Anne Statue
0.9 km
Historic statue commemorating Queen Anne’s reign and the completion of St. Paul’s Cathedral, symbolizing Britain’s royal heritage and resilience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bleeding Heart Yard
0.1 km
Explore Bleeding Heart Yard, a hidden gem in London filled with historic charm, delightful dining, and a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city.
St. Etheldreda's RC Church, Farringdon
0.2 km
Discover London's oldest Catholic church, St. Etheldreda's, a medieval gem steeped in history, sacred relics, and stunning stained glass artistry.
Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn
0.2 km
Discover the historic Ye Olde Mitre pub in London, where centuries of stories and traditional British charm await you.
Black Cab Heritage Tours
0.2 km
Uncover London's rich history and vibrant culture aboard a classic black cab with personalized tours from Black Cab Heritage Tours.
St. Peter's Italian Catholic Church
0.2 km
A majestic basilica-style church in London’s Little Italy, celebrating Italian heritage and faith since 1863.
Staple Inn
0.3 km
Discover Staple Inn, London’s last Tudor timber-framed Inn of Chancery, a historic legal and wool trading hub that survived fire, war, and centuries of change.
Well Court
0.3 km
Discover Well Court, a captivating Victorian alley blending historic charm and modern life in the heart of London’s City.
Marx Memorial Library & Workers School
0.4 km
A historic hub of Marxist scholarship and working-class education housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building in the heart of Clerkenwell Green.
The Crown Tavern
0.4 km
Step into The Crown Tavern, a historic Victorian pub where revolutionary history meets classic London charm on Clerkenwell Green.
London Silver Vaults
0.4 km
Explore the world’s largest underground silver marketplace beneath historic Chancery Lane, where centuries of craftsmanship shine behind steel vault doors.
St John's Gate
0.4 km
Discover the medieval gateway of St John's Gate, home to the Knights Hospitaller and the origins of St John Ambulance in historic Clerkenwell.
Museum of the Order of Saint John
0.4 km
Discover the rich history of the Order of St John at its historic London Gatehouse, blending medieval heritage with modern humanitarian legacy.
John Wilkes statue
0.5 km
Explore the dynamic bronze statue of John Wilkes on Fetter Lane, celebrating a fiery 18th-century champion of freedom and London’s political heritage.
Smithfield Market
0.5 km
London's 900-year-old wholesale meat market where Victorian architecture meets modern commerce.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
0.5 km
Discover the sweet side of London at The Chocolate Cocktail Club, where chocolate meets cocktail artistry in a delightful atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
St. John
0.5 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.0 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
1.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
1.1 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Madison
1.1 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
1.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
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.
Balthazar
1.2 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.3 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Circus
1.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
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.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Chez Antoinette
1.4 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
1.4 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Persephone books
0.8 km
Discover the hidden treasures of 20th-century women’s literature at Persephone Books, a Bloomsbury gem celebrating forgotten female voices.
Twinings - The Strand
0.8 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.8 km
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
The Store X
1.0 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
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.
Unique Gifts
1.1 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
1.1 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
One New Change
1.1 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
The Brunswick Centre
1.2 km
Iconic brutalist shopping and cultural hub where modernist architecture meets vibrant urban life in Bloomsbury.
Fancy That of London
1.2 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.3 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
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.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke
0.6 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Black Parrot
0.7 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Princess Louise
1.0 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
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.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
1.2 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
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.
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.
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.
Lyaness
1.3 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Crusting Pipe
1.3 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.3 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Beaufort Bar
1.4 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.
American Bar
1.4 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
1.4 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
The Escapologist Bar
1.4 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
London Best Night Clubs
0.5 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Carwash Nightclub
1.0 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
1.1 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Proud Late
1.3 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.
The Roxy
1.4 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.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Ivy Club
1.6 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.6 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 Steel Yard
1.7 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
1.7 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Club49Soho
1.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.7 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Heaven
1.7 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.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.8 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Penthouse London
1.9 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Lively
- Quirky
- Scenic
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
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
