London Garden Squares
If you are looking for peace and tranquillity with the convenience of city living, London Garden Squares could be your ideal location.
London is known as one of the most vibrant and buzzing cities in the world. But away from the hustle and bustle, the capital has its fair share of green spaces to escape to and maintain that much-needed sense of balance.
With numerous royal parks and garden squares, you’re never far from an outside space, regardless of the postcode.
London garden squares, in particular, offer a type of charm that is quintessentially London. Carefully designed, they provide a tranquil escape for many Londoners.
So much so, that it’s not uncommon for buyers to seek them out when looking for a new home. Here, we take a closer look at London garden squares to give you the lowdown on these picture-perfect spaces dotted around the city.
Historical Overview of London Garden Squares
London garden squares, with their lush greenery amidst busy city settings, are emblematic of the capital’s historical evolution. Their development mirrors the changing architectural and societal trends across centuries.
Furthermore, many London garden squares have had important roles in history such as Addington Square in Camberwell was once a meeting place for radicals and reformers, while Tredegar Square in Bow was the site of a suffragette rally.
Claremont Square in Islington was home to the writer George Orwell, and Brunswick Square in Bloomsbury was once home to Charles Darwin.
Georgian London Garden Squares
The Georgian era saw the inception of London garden squares, offering a structured elegance to the urban landscape. Characterised by symmetrical layouts and classical detailing, the design of these squares was inspired by the ideals of order and harmony.
London garden squares can be traced back to 1631 with the creation of Covent Garden by the Bedford family. This square, designed by Inigo Jones, was inspired by the grand piazzas of Italy, setting a precedent for future developments.
Central London boasts a plethora of garden squares. Among them is Bloomsbury Square, one of the oldest in London, reflecting the grandeur of the Georgian era.
Portman Square, with its elegant garden and Georgian architecture, exemplifies the prestige associated with Marylebone’s garden squares.
Bedford Square is a quintessential example of Georgian influence, showcasing orderly layouts and mature trees encased in ornamental iron railings.
Victorian London Garden Squares
During the Victorian era, garden squares became more elaborate in design with intricate floral arrangements leading to winding paths and grand fountains.
Ironwork, a hallmark of Victorian design, was more decorative while planting schemes were more colourful and varied.
Modern London Garden Squares
While garden squares are rooted in hundreds of years of history, modern architects have taken the concept and added a modern spin.
Some feature modern art installations, while others have play areas. Accessibility has been enhanced too, with many London garden squares now created as public places rather than being closed off.
Sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and the incorporation of biodiversity-friendly planting schemes also reflect modern environmental consciousness.
Redcross Way Garden in Southwark and Camley Street Natural Park, St Pancras are two popular modern garden squares, regarded as nature reserves.
10 Notable London Garden Squares
There are garden squares found in many residential areas, and more built-up parts of London too. Below is a list of 10 of the most notable London garden squares
- Park Square, Regent’s Park: Features private gardens, tennis courts, and a children’s playground, ideal for families.
- Brompton Square, Knightsbridge: A newly refurbished property in one of London’s most desirable areas with luxury amenities.
- Grosvenor Square, Mayfair: Offers luxury apartments with incredible city views and exclusive amenities in a prestigious borough.
- Eaton Square, Belgravia: Known for its exclusive properties with access to private gardens and tennis courts.
- Pembroke Square, Kensington: A classic London terraced house blending elegance with modern features.
- Chester Square, Belgravia: Historic and luxurious properties, including one previously owned by notable figures.
- Thurloe Place, Knightsbridge/South Kensington: Features refurbished apartments with views of the Victoria & Albert Museum.
- Kensington Square, Kensington: The oldest private garden square in London, rich in history and character.
- Paultons Square, Chelsea: Offers spacious properties with an exclusive master suite and south-facing terrace.
- Bryanston Square, Marylebone: Renowned for picturesque garden views and modern, high-specification apartments.
London garden squares aren’t just limited to Central London areas, they can be found further afield: Islington is home to the beautiful Barnsbury Square, which is surrounded by stunning Georgian townhouses.
There are many more to be discovered across London postcodes.
Private Gardens in London
Particularly in the most desirable parts of London, private gardens remain a coveted feature, with access limited to only those who live on the square and a key provided, often in return for a service charge to maintain the space.
Private squares, such as Eaton Square and Cadogan Place are some of the most highly regarded.
Occasionally private garden squares may be opened to the public.
Council-Owned Squares and Public Spaces
Council-owned squares like Soho Square and Golden Square are well-maintained public spaces, ensuring accessibility for all, whilst adhering to a high standard of landscape preservation.
Warwick Square in Pimlico is a prime example of a garden square that has been transformed from a private garden to a public space, providing a much-needed green area for local residents.
Why Live on a London Garden Square?
Living near a garden square in London offers several attractive benefits, which can be particularly appealing for a variety of reasons:
- Immediate Access to Green Space: Garden squares provide a much-needed green oasis in the urban landscape. They offer a tranquil environment for relaxation and recreation, which is especially valuable in a bustling city like London. This access to greenery can enhance mental well-being and provide a space for outdoor activities.
- Enjoying a Beautiful Aspect: Garden squares often feature beautifully landscaped gardens, historic architecture, and a charming, picturesque setting and for the most part, properties on garden squares will enjoy views of the greenery.
- Community and Social Interaction: Garden squares often foster a sense of community among residents. They are social hubs where neighbours can meet, interact, and participate in community events.
- Property Value: Properties near garden squares in London are often highly sought after and can hold higher property values. The prestige and desirability associated with living near a garden square can be a significant financial investment for homeowners.
- Health Benefits: Proximity to green spaces has been linked to various health benefits and the presence of plants and trees can improve air quality, which is a significant advantage in a city known for its air pollution.
These reasons combine practical benefits with a unique lifestyle offering, making living near a garden square in London an attractive proposition for many.
Garden Squares and Property
Living near or having access to a garden square significantly enhances the allure of a property. From a value perspective, properties adjacent to these oases often command higher prices, reflecting the premium buyers place on the aesthetic, recreational and tranquil attributes they offer.
Beyond monetary value, garden squares can contribute to a superior living experience. They provide a visual respite from urban scenes, offer spaces for exercise and leisure, and provide a sense of community among residents who share these common greens.
Many of the garden squares in Prime Central London areas are some of the most exclusive addresses in the capital.
London Garden Squares
If you are looking for a property on one of the London Garden Squares, professional property finders Garrington would be delighted to assist with your search.
