Montagu Square
A grand Georgian garden square in Marylebone, famous for its elegant architecture and as the former home of John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Jimi Hendrix.
Montagu Square is a grand Georgian garden square in Marylebone, London, known for its elegant Regency architecture and tranquil central garden. Built between 1810 and 1815 as part of the Portman Estate, it was named after the influential 18th-century literary hostess Elizabeth Montagu. The square is famous for its association with The Beatles and rock legends, particularly 34 Montagu Square, where John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney and Jimi Hendrix all lived. Today, it remains a quiet, leafy enclave of private residences and a pilgrimage site for music fans.
A brief summary to Montagu Square
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- The central garden is private and only open to residents and their guests on weekends; respect the rules and enjoy the square’s atmosphere from the surrounding pavement.
- Visit early in the day or on a weekday to avoid crowds and get the best photos of the architecture and the blue plaque at 34 Montagu Square.
- Combine a visit with nearby attractions like Baker Street, Regent’s Park and Abbey Road to explore more of Marylebone’s literary and musical history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
From Baker Street Underground station (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Circle and Hammersmith & City lines), walk southeast along Marylebone Road and then into Montagu Square; the journey takes about 10–12 minutes on level pavements.
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Underground
From Marble Arch Underground station (Central line), walk north along Park Lane and then into Montagu Square; the walk takes about 12–15 minutes, mostly on level ground with some crossings.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area near Marble Arch and Baker Street; from there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk on level pavements to Montagu Square.
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Walking
From central Marylebone or Regent’s Park, Montagu Square is a 10–20 minute walk on well-maintained pavements, passing through quiet residential streets and near Marylebone High Street.
Montagu Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Montagu Square
A Grand Georgian Garden Square
Montagu Square is one of London’s finest and largest private garden squares, a classic example of early 19th-century town planning in Marylebone. Laid out between 1810 and 1815 as part of the Portman Estate, the square was designed by Joseph Parkinson and named in honour of Elizabeth Montagu, the celebrated literary hostess and patron of the arts. The surrounding terraces of elegant, uniform brick houses with stucco detailing and cast-iron balconies create a harmonious, dignified streetscape that has changed little in appearance over two centuries. The long, rectangular layout, oriented roughly north–south, is dominated by mature plane trees that shade the central garden, giving the square a calm, residential character distinct from the bustle of nearby Oxford Street and Marble Arch.The Literary and Social Legacy
The square’s name pays tribute to Elizabeth Montagu, a central figure in London’s 18th-century intellectual life and founder of the Bluestocking Society. Though she never lived in Montagu Square itself, the builder David Porter, who had once been a chimney sweep, named the square after her as a mark of gratitude and affection. The garden’s peaceful atmosphere echoes the refined salons of Montagu’s era, and the square’s history as a home to writers and thinkers continues with residents like the Victorian novelist Anthony Trollope, who lived at number 39. This blend of literary heritage and architectural restraint gives Montagu Square a quiet, cultured presence in central London.Rock & Roll at 34 Montagu Square
Montagu Square’s modern fame rests largely on number 34, a ground-floor and basement flat that became a legendary address in rock history. In the 1960s, Ringo Starr took a lease on the flat, which was later occupied in turn by Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, and John Lennon with Yoko Ono. It was here that Lennon and Ono lived during the recording of The Beatles’ White Album, and where the famous nude cover photo for their experimental album Two Virgins was taken. The flat was also the site of a notorious 1968 police raid on Lennon and Ono for drug possession, an event that marked a turbulent chapter in the Beatles’ story. Today, a blue plaque commemorates Lennon’s time at the address, drawing music fans from around the world.A Tranquil Urban Oasis
The central garden of Montagu Square is a rare, well-kept private green space in central London, open to residents and their guests on weekends. Laid out with formal paths and shaded by tall plane trees planted to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo, the garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Residents have restored the original railings, and the space is carefully maintained, preserving its historic character. The garden’s tranquillity contrasts with the square’s rock and roll associations, creating a layered sense of place where Georgian elegance, literary history and 1960s counterculture quietly coexist. For visitors, a walk around the square offers a chance to admire the architecture, glimpse the garden, and reflect on the lives that have shaped this quiet corner of Marylebone.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
0.4 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Speakers' Corner
0.7 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.7 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.8 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
The Paddington Partnership
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.9 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
The Old Police House
1.1 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Sussex Gardens
1.2 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.3 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Liberty’s clock
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Liberty's Clock, an iconic landmark in Carnaby, London, embodying the city’s rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Paddington Bear Statue
1.3 km
Visit the charming Paddington Bear Statue in London, a delightful tribute to the beloved character that captures the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
1.3 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.3 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
The Photographers' Gallery
1.4 km
Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
Savile Row
1.4 km
Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Wallace Collection
0.4 km
Discover timeless masterpieces and aristocratic elegance in the heart of London at the Wallace Collection, a free museum of art and history.
St Mary's Church, Bryanston Square
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St Mary's Church in Bryanston Square, a must-visit historical landmark in London.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
0.4 km
Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Moco Museum London
0.4 km
Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
London Gifts
0.4 km
A lively London-themed gift shop on Oxford Street offering quick souvenirs with a vibrant but sometimes challenging shopping experience.
Baker St
0.4 km
Step into Victorian London at the world's first literary character museum, where Sherlock Holmes' iconic address comes alive.
Grosvenor Casino, The Victoria
0.5 km
Experience premier gaming, fine dining, and vibrant social scenes at London’s iconic Grosvenor Casino The Victoria on Edgware Road.
Selfridges
0.5 km
Discover Selfridges London, a historic Oxford Street icon blending luxury shopping, innovative experiences, and cultural heritage across six vibrant floors.
Mercato Mayfair
0.6 km
Discover a vibrant, sustainable food hall set within the historic St. Mark's Church, blending global flavors with Gothic grandeur in Mayfair.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
0.6 km
Modern student living in central London, opposite Madame Tussaud’s and close to Regent’s Park and the vibrant West End.
The Wonderpass
0.6 km
Discover The Wonderpass, a vibrant and artistic pedestrian underpass at Baker Street that turns a simple crossing into a captivating cultural journey.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
0.6 km
Iconic bronze statue near Baker Street celebrating Sherlock Holmes, London’s legendary fictional detective and literary icon.
St Christopher's Place
0.6 km
A charming pedestrianised enclave of boutique shops and global dining, tucked just off Oxford Street in central London.
Animals In War Memorial
0.7 km
Explore the Animals In War Memorial in London, a moving tribute honoring the bravery of animals in military service throughout history.
Madame Tussauds London
0.7 km
Step into the world of fame and history with over 150 lifelike celebrity figures and immersive experiences at Madame Tussauds London.
Essential places to dine
Apricity Restaurant
0.6 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Portland
1.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Little Social
1.2 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
sketch
1.3 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Starbucks Coffee
1.4 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
1.5 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Kingly Court
1.5 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
NOPI
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
HIDE
1.6 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Social Eating House
1.6 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
1.6 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Blanchette
1.6 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
1.6 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
The Ninth
1.7 km
Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Beatles Store
0.7 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Church Street Market
1.1 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
LONGCHAMP
1.2 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Beyond Retro Soho
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Regent St.
1.3 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Liberty
1.3 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Hamleys
1.4 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Canvas Collection
1.4 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Shepherd Market
1.4 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Carnaby St
1.4 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Kingly Ct
1.5 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
House of secrets
1.5 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.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
1.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
Charbonnel et Walker
1.5 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
28 The Royal Arcade
1.5 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
0.2 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Purl London
0.3 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Victoria, Paddington
1.0 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Dickens Tavern
1.1 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Argyll Arms
1.2 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
The Swan, Hyde Park
1.4 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
Cahoots London
1.5 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
1.5 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
1.5 km
A vibrant, punk-inspired basement bar in Fitzrovia serving inventive cocktails and lively nights with flair and fun.
NQ64 Soho
1.5 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Punch Room
1.6 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
Below
1.6 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Basement Sate
1.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Duke of Argyll
1.8 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Nellie Dean
1.8 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
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
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
