Russell Square

The basics

Russell Square has a fountain at its center and is dotted with benches that feature moving plaques dedicated to lost friends and relatives. There's a café with indoor and outdoor seating inside the square and a green cabman's kiosk with outdoor seating on the edge of the square that serves rustic rolls and hot coffee. Russell Square features on some Sherlock Holmes and Bloomsbury walking tours and other walks focusing on London’s rich literary heritage.

Things to know before you go

• Dogs aren't allowed on the flowerbeds but are welcome on the paths.

• Don't feed the birds, as it encourages vermin.

• Russell Square is accessible to people using wheelchairs.

How to get there

The nearest tube station is Russell Square, on the Piccadilly line. The station has step-free access. Euston station is a 10-minute walk away; from there, you can catch National Rail lines and London Underground lines such as the Northern and Victoria. You can't cycle through the park.

When to get there

Russell Square is open from early morning until late evening; otherwise, the gates are chained. The nicest times to visit are spring, summer, and fall when the park is colorful with blossoms and leaves or balmy with warm temperatures. London’s weather is notoriously fickle, so always carry an umbrella.

Attractions near Russell Square

Russell Square is just a stone's throw from some of central London’s top attractions. The British Museum, home to a collection of more than 50,000 items, is only a 10-minute walk from the square, while the British Library, where you can take a Treasures Tour to see the Magna Carta, is also 10 minutes away.