Open:

Saturday 10:00–17:00 + Sunday 10:00–17:00

Description:

One of only three London squares designed by Humphry Repton and considered to be the finest in London. It was restored under the Heritage Lottery Fund Urban Parks Programme in 2001.

Russell Square was originally designed as the centrepiece of the 5th Duke of Bedford’s 1800 development plan for northern Bloomsbury. James Burton created a link between Russell and Bloomsbury Squares in the form of a central axis along Bedford Place. Repton completed this vision by terminating the view in each direction with statues of the Duke of Bedford and Charles James Fox.

Although the square has undergone various changes since its original conception, many historic features remain. The fine mature trees do not date back to the original 1804 planting, but they echo the original pattern of Repton’s lime avenues and have been retained.

The square is listed Grade II by English Heritage. It is protected by the London Squares Preservation Act of 1931 and lies within the important Bloomsbury Conservation Area. It was awarded a Green Flag in 2009.

Activities:

The Friends of Russell Square will be available for information and history. Punch and Judy show, children’s activities, music and entertainments on both days. Archives and picture exhibitions. Guided tours, depending on the weather. Cafeteria with open-air seating.

Entrance:

All four sides
Nearest postcode: WC1B 4JA
Sells tickets.

Buses:

59, 68, 91, 168, 188

Station:

Russell Square

Dogs:

Dogs on leads

Further information:

• Street Map
• Map of nearby gardens
• Garden's web site
• Printable version