Speakers' Corner, Hyde Park: The Cradle of Free Speech
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park, London — a timeless open-air forum for free speech, debate, and democratic expression since 1872.
Located at the north-east edge of Hyde Park near Marble Arch, Speakers' Corner is a historic open-air platform for public speaking and debate. Established officially in 1872, it symbolizes democratic freedom, where anyone can speak on any lawful topic. With roots tracing back to the 19th-century reform movements and the nearby Tyburn Gallows, it remains a vibrant hub for political discourse, activism, and social dialogue in London.
A brief summary to Speakers' Corner
- Hyde Park, London, W2 2EU, GB
- +447722523629
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Sunday mornings for the liveliest debates and the chance to hear a variety of speakers on diverse topics.
- Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for standing; the area is outdoors with no formal seating.
- Respect the tradition of lawful speech and be mindful that heckling is part of the experience.
- Explore nearby Marble Arch and Oxford Street for additional cultural and shopping experiences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Marble Arch station on the Central Line; from there, Speakers' Corner is a short 5-minute walk through Hyde Park. Tube tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on the time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes serve Marble Arch, including routes 2, 6, 7, and 98. Bus journeys from central London take 15–30 minutes, with fares around £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to Speakers' Corner typically takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic, costing approximately £10–£20.
-
Walking
If staying nearby, walking through Hyde Park to Speakers' Corner is a pleasant option, taking 15–30 minutes depending on your starting point. Paths are generally flat and accessible.
Speakers' Corner location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Speakers' Corner
From Dark Origins to a Beacon of Free Expression
Speakers' Corner sits on the north-east edge of Hyde Park, London, near Marble Arch and Oxford Street. Its history is deeply intertwined with the infamous Tyburn Gallows, a site of public executions from as early as 1108 until 1783. These executions attracted massive crowds who witnessed the condemned make final speeches, establishing an early tradition of public oration in the area. The gallows, known as the "Tyburn Tree," could hang up to 24 people at once, making executions a grim yet significant social event.The Rise of Public Speaking and Democratic Protest
The modern tradition of Speakers' Corner began in the mid-19th century amid growing democratic protests. In 1855, a carpenter publicly voiced grievances about food prices, marking one of the earliest recorded instances of open speech here. The Reform League’s 1866 demonstration, which involved tearing down railings to access Hyde Park, pressured the government to pass the Parks Regulation Act of 1872. This legislation officially designated the area for free public speaking and political demonstrations, cementing Speakers' Corner as a symbol of democratic rights.A Stage for History’s Influential Voices
Speakers' Corner has hosted many notable figures, including Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, William Morris, and George Orwell, who praised it as a "minor wonder of the world." The site was also pivotal for the suffragette movement between 1906 and 1914, where weekly meetings and massive rallies advocated women’s voting rights. Over the decades, it has remained a focal point for protests and debates on a wide array of issues, from workers' rights to anti-war activism.The Unique Atmosphere of Open Debate
Today, Speakers' Corner is a lively, informal forum where anyone can speak on any lawful subject. Orators often bring soapboxes, placards, and ladders to engage crowds, while heckling is an accepted part of the discourse. The site attracts a diverse audience, from passionate activists to curious listeners, maintaining a tradition of spirited public dialogue that continues every Sunday and beyond.Location and Cultural Significance
Nestled within Hyde Park, one of London’s largest green spaces, Speakers' Corner benefits from heavy foot traffic, especially from visitors using nearby Marble Arch station. It stands as a living monument to free speech and democratic engagement, linking centuries of history from public executions to modern political activism. The corner’s enduring legacy underscores the importance of open dialogue in shaping society.Continuing Legacy and Modern Relevance
Speakers' Corner remains a vibrant hub for public discourse in London. It hosts a wide range of voices, from religious missionaries to political activists, reflecting the city’s multicultural and democratic spirit. The tradition of free speech here is protected by law and upheld by the community, making it one of the last surviving historic soapbox speaking sites in the world.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Speakers' Corner
0.0 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
38 Grosvenor Sq
0.5 km
Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Roosevelt Memorial
0.5 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
The Old Police House
0.6 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.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
0.6 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
0.7 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Norwegian War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.0 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
1.0 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.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.0 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.
Wellington Arch
1.1 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
The Paddington Partnership
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
Edward Jenner Memorial
1.1 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
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.
Savile Row
1.2 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
London Gifts
0.3 km
A lively London-themed gift shop on Oxford Street offering quick souvenirs with a vibrant but sometimes challenging shopping experience.
Moco Museum London
0.3 km
Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
0.3 km
Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Park Ln
0.4 km
Prestigious Park Lane in London blends historic grandeur with luxury hotels, upscale shops, and serene Hyde Park views along its iconic 1.1 km stretch.
Mercato Mayfair
0.5 km
Discover a vibrant, sustainable food hall set within the historic St. Mark's Church, blending global flavors with Gothic grandeur in Mayfair.
Grosvenor Sq
0.5 km
Grosvenor Square: London's historic garden square blending aristocratic heritage, American diplomacy, and modern urban renewal in Mayfair.
Hyde Park
0.5 km
Explore Hyde Park, London's vast historic Royal Park and vibrant green sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Grosvenor Chapel
0.6 km
Historic 18th-century Mayfair chapel blending Georgian elegance with Anglo-Catholic tradition and wartime American ties.
Selfridges
0.6 km
Discover Selfridges London, a historic Oxford Street icon blending luxury shopping, innovative experiences, and cultural heritage across six vibrant floors.
Thomas Goode & Co
0.6 km
Discover nearly two centuries of exquisite craftsmanship and royal heritage at Thomas Goode & Co, London's premier luxury tableware emporium in Mayfair.
Mount Street Gardens
0.6 km
A historic and tranquil garden oasis in Mayfair, blending Victorian charm with seasonal beauty and rich London heritage.
Montagu Square
0.7 km
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.
The Punch Bowl
0.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Punch Bowl, a quintessential British pub in Mayfair, London, offering delectable cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception, Mayfair
0.7 km
Historic Jesuit Catholic church in Mayfair, London, renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and vibrant spiritual community.
St Christopher's Place
0.7 km
A charming pedestrianised enclave of boutique shops and global dining, tucked just off Oxford Street in central 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.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.0 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.1 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
The Grenadier
1.1 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
HIDE
1.1 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Little Social
1.2 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
sketch
1.2 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.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
1.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Kingly Court
1.4 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
NOPI
1.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Quaglino's
1.4 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Great British Restaurant
1.5 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Portland
1.5 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
1.5 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.0 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
LONGCHAMP
1.1 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Charbonnel et Walker
1.2 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
1.2 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Oxford St
1.2 km
Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.
Regent St.
1.3 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Beyond Retro Soho
1.3 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Hamleys
1.3 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
237 Oxford St
1.3 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Harrods
1.3 km
Step into the world’s most iconic luxury department store, where shopping, dining, and history blend in the heart of Knightsbridge.
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.
Burlington Arcade
1.4 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Knightsbridge
1.4 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where world-class shopping, elegant architecture, and cultural attractions blend seamlessly.
Kingly Ct
1.4 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Carnaby St
1.4 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
0.5 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Purl London
0.9 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Victoria, Paddington
0.9 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
Below
1.1 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
1.2 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
The Dickens Tavern
1.2 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Swan, Hyde Park
1.3 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
The Argyll Arms
1.3 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.
Cahoots London
1.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
1.4 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 Red Lion, Mayfair
1.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
NQ64 Soho
1.6 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Duke of Argyll
1.7 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Thin White Duke
1.7 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Basement Sate
1.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- 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
