Berkeley Square: Elegance, History & Haunting in the Heart of Mayfair
Looking for a unique blend of aristocratic charm, lush greenery, and spine-tingling legend in London? Berkeley Square in Mayfair offers all that — and more. Whether you’re staying in a hostel in London, a hostel Londres, or an ostella Londra, this iconic square is a must-see destination.
A Stroll Through History
Established in the mid-1700s, Berkeley Square was designed by William Kent and quickly became a fashionable address for London’s elite. The square is home to some of the oldest London Plane trees in the city, planted in 1789, and now protected as Grade II listed specimens.
Famous residents have included Winston Churchill, George Canning, and Beau Brummell, and the square even inspired the classic wartime song “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.”
What to See and Do
- Relax in the Gardens: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere under centuries-old trees and admire sculptures like the 1865 fountain by Alexander Munro and Reina Mariana by Manolo Valdés.
- Explore Art Galleries: Nearby galleries such as Gagosian, David Zwirner, and Phillips offer world-class exhibitions.
- Shop in Style: Just steps away, Bond Street and Shepherd Market offer luxury shopping and boutique finds.
- Attend Seasonal Events: The LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair is held annually in the square, with tickets ranging from £29 to £180.
Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
Berkeley Square is surrounded by some of London’s finest dining spots:
- Sexy Fish – Asian fusion with a glamorous twist.
- Benares – Michelin-starred Indian cuisine.
- May Fair Kitchen – Italian and Japanese fusion.
- The Windmill Mayfair – A cozy pub with classic British fare.
- Amazonico – Latin American flavors in a lush, jungle-inspired setting.
The Haunted House at No. 50 Berkeley Square
No visit to Berkeley Square is complete without a peek at No. 50, known as “The Most Haunted House in London.”
The Legend:
- Haunted by the ghost of a young woman who tragically died after abuse.
- Other tales include a mad recluse, a murdered child, and a sailor who died of fright.
- Visitors have reported seeing a brown mist, white figures, and hearing unexplained noises.
Today, the building houses Maggs Bros. Ltd, a rare book dealer. While not open for ghost tours, the eerie façade alone is worth the visit.
Staying at NX London Hostel
If you’re staying at NX London Hostel, you’re in luck — you’re well-connected to all of London’s top spots, including Berkeley Square.
Located in New Cross, this vibrant hostel offers:
- Free breakfast and refreshments
- Wi-Fi and linens included
- Multilingual staff
- Communal kitchen and lounge
- A lively atmosphere perfect for solo travelers and groups
How to Get to Berkeley Square from NX London Hostel
NX London Hostel Address: 323A New Cross Road, London SE14 6AS
Berkeley Square Address: Mayfair, London W1J 5FJ
Directions:
- Walk to New Cross Gate Station (5 mins).
- Take the Overground to Canada Water.
- Transfer to the Jubilee Line and ride to Green Park Station.
- Walk to Berkeley Square (5 mins).
Total travel time: ~35–40 minutes
Estimated fare: £2.80 with Oyster/contactless
Tickets & Entry
Berkeley Square is free to visit. No ticket is needed to enjoy the gardens or admire the architecture. For events like the LAPADA Fair, tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.
Key Takeaways
- Berkeley Square in Mayfair offers a blend of aristocratic charm, lush greenery, and intriguing legends.
- Established in the mid-1700s, it features notable history and some of London’s oldest trees planted in 1789.
- Visitors can enjoy gardens, art galleries, luxury shopping, and seasonal events like the LAPADA Fair.
- The area is home to fine dining spots, including Sexy Fish and Benares, catering to various tastes.
- A visit wouldn’t be complete without checking out No. 50, known as ‘The Most Haunted House in London.’
Final Thought
Berkeley Square is where Mayfair elegance meets ghostly intrigue. Whether you’re chasing history, art, or a good scare, this square delivers — and if you hear a nightingale singing, well… maybe it’s not just the birds.
