7 Hidden Gem Gardens and Courtyards in Bloomsbury
Bloomsbury is one of central London’s best‑kept secrets. Close to many of the city’s major attractions with world‑class museums just steps away, it still feels thoroughly local. Bookshops, cosy cafés and quiet corners give the area a lived-in charm.
For anyone searching for hidden gardens in London or a secret garden in central London, Bloomsbury is a natural place to explore. These are spaces you tend to discover slowly, moments that feel like a small reward as you wander with curiosity. This guide brings together some of Bloomsbury’s most charming hidden gardens and courtyards, offering a calm, local alternative to the city’s busier green spaces.
Leafy Bloomsbury garden square with people strolling and relaxing on benches, surrounded by Georgian townhouses in central London.
Why Bloomsbury Is One of London’s Best Areas for Hidden Gardens
So why Bloomsbury in particular? Well, we think the appeal lies in its Georgian layout. Planned around a series of elegant squares, the area was designed with space and greenery in mind. It’s a legacy that still shapes its atmosphere today.
Compared with busier parts of central London, Bloomsbury feels calmer and more residential. Its network of garden squares is complemented by hidden courtyards, quieter residential gardens and discreet green pockets that are easy to miss if you’re only passing through. There is a balance of history, greenery and pace that makes Bloomsbury particularly appealing for visitors who seek secret gardens in London that feel genuinely restful.
Bloomsbury’s Most Charming Hidden Gardens and Courtyards
1. Russell Square Gardens
Starting with one of Bloomsbury’s better‑known green spaces, Russell Square Gardens sits just moments from Russell Square Station, making it an easy and convenient stop. While it’s busier than some of the quieter gardens nearby, it still feels noticeably calmer than many other central London spots.
You’ll often see students on lunch breaks or catching up between classes, alongside people enjoying a quiet moment on a bench with something to eat. At the centre of the square is a beautiful fountain, usually switched on in spring and summer, adding to the garden’s gentle sense of calm (it’s that sound of flowing water that is just so relaxing).
Inside the garden, there’s a cafe called Tropea which has more orangery vibes with outdoor seating. It’s great for when you are craving a cold beverage but don’t feel like leaving the green space.
The overall vibe is lively yet relaxed, busy enough to feel part of the city, but calm enough to lay on the grass for a while.
Pro tip: Stay at Morton Hotel for a direct view of the park entrance or President Hotel for views over the square and wake up to leafy London morning.
2. St George’s Gardens
One of Bloomsbury’s most atmospheric green spaces, St George’s Gardens feels quietly removed from the surrounding streets. Once a burial ground, it is now a serene garden of winding paths, mature trees and shaded benches.
Its slightly informal layout sets it apart from the grander squares nearby, giving it a peaceful, almost contemplative character.
Statue set within a lush Bloomsbury garden square, surrounded by greenery, flower beds and mature trees.
3. Tavistock Square
Just a short walk from Euston Station, Tavistock Square is the spot to pause and take a break between journeys. It has a thoughtful, literary atmosphere that feels deeply rooted in Bloomsbury’s identity, quietly capturing the area’s intellectual and cultural spirit.
The square also tells powerful stories of London’s past through its plaques, memorials and statues. As you walk around, you’ll come across several significant landmarks, including:
This memorial marks the site of the 7 July 2005 London bombings, when a bus was attacked in London. It honours the victims who lost their lives and provides a quiet space for remembrance within the square.
The statue commemorates Mahatma Gandhi and his role in India’s independence movement, as well as his commitment to non‑violence. It was placed here to reflect themes of peace and social justice that run through the square and the neighbourhood.
- Conscientious Objectors’ Stone
This stone honours people who refused to take part in war on moral or ethical grounds. It recognises conscientious objection as a form of personal conviction rather than avoidance.
Planted in memory of the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, this tree serves as a living memorial to peace. Its spring blossoms symbolise renewal and remembrance.
Located near BMA House, this memorial commemorates members of the British Medical Association who died during the World Wars, highlighting the role of medical professionals in times of conflict.
This bust honours writer Virginia Woolf, who lived at Tavistock Hotel (you will find her blue plaque just across the street) and was a key figure in the Bloomsbury Group. It reflects the area’s strong literary and cultural heritage.
4. Bloomsbury Square Garden
Just moments from Holborn station, Bloomsbury Square Garden is still a great find, this square is lesser known so it’s never too busy even though it's right next to a main road. Enclosed by railings and greenery, it offers a sense of separation from the city. You will find locals walking their dogs or people walking around during lunch breaks.
It’s a reminder that some of the best hidden gardens in central London are hiding in plain sight.
5. Coram Fields (For Families)
Coram’s Fields is one of Bloomsbury’s most family‑focused green spaces, created with children at its heart. A key part of what makes it feel different is its rule that adults must be accompanied by a child, which helps keep the atmosphere calm, safe and easygoing. Inside, there are generous play areas, open grassy spaces and sections designed specifically for younger children, all set away from busy roads and traffic. It’s a space where children can move freely and confidently, while parents stay close by making it a comfortable and reassuring stop for families spending time in central London.
6. Gordon Square Gardens
Gordon Square Gardens feels like classic Bloomsbury at its most relaxed. Set just behind busy roads and surrounded by Georgian townhouses and university buildings. It’s popular with students, locals and anyone looking for a peaceful pause, you’ll often see people reading on the grass, having lunch on a bench or simply taking a moment between plans. The layout feels open and balanced, with wide lawns and mature trees.
As you enter there is Momo’s Garden Café, a small, house‑shaped café that feels like a lovely discovery (feels straight out of a story book) good for grabbing and chatting with your loved ones, try something homemade and simple. Their special soup of the day is just perfect for a slightly chilly day.
7. Private Garden inside Bedford Hotel
Hidden inside Bedford Hotel, this private garden is one of Bloomsbury’s quieter finds. You wouldn’t have known this place otherwise. It's the kind of place that is - if you know, you know.
The garden connects directly to Botanica, the hotel’s restaurant, where you can enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea or seasonal dishes while taking in the peaceful setting. It’s an easy place to sit and linger, whether you’re visiting for food or simply enjoying the space.
Fun fact: Bedford Hotel is great if you are travelling solo, most of the rooms they have are single rooms, so you have a better chance of meeting other fellow solo travellers in the private garden.
Red telephone box tucked among trees in a leafy Bloomsbury park, with people walking along a sunlit path.
What Makes These Spots Worth Seeking Out
These spots are mostly all lesser known, and the beauty is that they are still very much central and easily accessible. They feel more like discovered rather than obvious, combining history, beauty and atmosphere. Together, they show a quieter more relaxed side of Bloomsbury, one that rewards slow exploration and curiosity.
A Gentle Walking Route Through Bloomsbury
Exploring Bloomsbury’s gardens works best at an unhurried pace. Everything here is walkable, making it easy to link several spaces together.
Morning
Start near Russell Square with coffee and pastry from the famous Fortitude Bakery (you will not regret this), then do some people watching at Russell Square Gardens. Pair the walk with a British Museum visit or a stop at Judd bookshop by Marchmont Street.
Afternoon
As this comes closer to lunch time, go to Poppadom Indian Kitchen for yet another gem that only locals know of. Serving Anglo Indian dishes, catered to more international tastebuds. After a long Indian lunch right outside there is Tavistock square, where you can do a few laps and go across the street to Gordon Square to visit Momo’s Cafe (or return to Poppadom Indian Kitchen for Chai).
Early Evening
Now if you are with little ones, Coram Street in the early evening is where you will have the best time as the kids enjoy the slides and swings.
If you are solo or fancy a quieter tea time, grab afternoon tea at Botanica restaurant with private garden views.
Finish the day more British style at The London Pub, this is the place where you can settle in for the rest of the evening with a proper British meal (and some pints *wink*)
Peaceful garden terrace with outdoor dining tables, greenery and parasols at Imperial London Hotels in Bloomsbury.
Where to stay in Bloomsbury for quick garden access
When you’re staying in Bloomsbury, Imperial London Hotels make it easy to explore the area on foot. All of the hotels are well placed for quieter streets, garden squares and those small moments of calm that Bloomsbury does so well.
Whether you want a place to pause between walks, sit outdoors with a drink, or simply wake up close to greenery, each hotel offers something slightly different depending on how you like to travel.
Bedford Hotel is a great choice if having a garden on your doorstep matters. Its private garden is tucked away behind the hotel and connects directly to Botanica, making it easy to spend time outdoors without leaving the building. It’s ideal if you are travelling solo but there are few other room options too.
Morton Hotel
suits travellers who prefer something more characterful. It has a boutique feel and a strong literary connection, including The Library space, which feels fitting for Bloomsbury. It’s a good option if you like returning to somewhere calm after a day of walking, rather than a large hotel.
Royal National Hotel and City Sleeper at Royal National Hotel are solid, practical options just by Russell Square. If you want straightforward access to the square itself, nearby gardens and excellent transport links, these work well. They’re especially convenient if you plan to explore a lot on foot and want everything close by without overthinking it (and with great price)
President Hotel is ideal for classic central London convenience. Some rooms overlooking Russell Square, it puts one of Bloomsbury’s main green spaces right in front of you, while the Atrium Bar & Restaurant gives you an easy place to stop off after a day out. It's good for pre theatre drinks or if you fancy a Jazz Night.
Tavistock Hotel has a bit more Art deco, with places like The Woolf & Whistle for relaxed drinks and Poppadom Indian Kitchen on site for something a little different in the evening. It works well if you like staying somewhere that feels lived‑in and local, rather than purely functional.
Conclusion
Bloomsbury’s appeal lies not only in its landmarks, but in the quieter spaces between them. Its hidden gardens and courtyards reveal a more local, more human side of central London - one best explored slowly.
With Imperial London Hotels as your base, these secret green corners are always close at hand.
FAQs
Are there hidden gardens in Bloomsbury?
Yes, Bloomsbury is home to several tucked‑away gardens, squares and courtyards that feel calm and discreet.
What are the best Bloomsbury squares to visit?
Russell Square, Tavistock Square and Bloomsbury Square all offer distinct character and atmosphere.
Can you walk between Bloomsbury’s gardens and courtyards?
Yes. Bloomsbury is compact and ideal for walking, making it easy to visit several spaces in one outing.
Are Bloomsbury gardens good to visit in summer?
Summer brings planting, shade and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal time to explore and relax.
Where should I stay in Bloomsbury for exploring on foot?
Staying with Imperial London Hotels places you within easy walking distance of Bloomsbury’s gardens, squares and cultural highlights.