Hotels near Russell Square
Russell Square: All our hotels
Russell Square
Where is Russell Square in London?
Russell Square is in Bloomsbury, in the London Borough of Camden. Its Central London location makes it easy to get here from around the city, and Russel Square tube station opens up Greater London for exploring.
Russell Square station is on the Picadilly line. Euston and King's Cross are within easy walking distance, connecting Northern, Victoria, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan and London Overground services. Not to mention train lines spanning the UK and St Pancras International for the Eurostar. Holborn tube station is also a short walk away, where you can hop on the Central line to reach more destinations in no time.
Russell Square's history and fame
Russell Square gets its name from the Russell family, the Earls of Bedford, who owned Bloomsbury from the 17th century. The area was open fields until landscape architect Humphry Repton drew up plans for the square, surrounded by buildings designed by James Burton.
Russell Square quickly became one of the most addresses in London, home to high society, literary and scientific residents. Its proximity to the London University and British Museum added to its draw. Today, it remains one of the most attractive garden squares in the city. Surrounded by attractions, coffee shops and restaurants, and easy to get to from other parts of the city, it's well worth a visit while you're exploring London.
Things to do near London's Russell Square
Whether you choose a hotel in the Russell Square area or plan a visit during your time in London, there are many things to do in the area. From museums and galleries to shopping and dining, find something to suit your mood near the beautiful historic square.
1. The British Museum
The British Museum is one of London's best-loved attractions. A perfect day out for keen historians and curious visitors of all ages, the vast collection includes something to pique every interest. More than 60 galleries explore diverse themes, including Egyptian sculpture, Africa and the Roman Empire. You can also discover Enlightenment, Living and Dying and the Islamic world.
With so many rooms and objects to explore, it's easy to spend an entire day at the British Museum. Or choose a nearby hotel and swing by for a few hours at a time – entry is free, so there's no reason you can't return more than once.
2. The Charles Dickens Museum
Oliver Twist, Great Expectations and A Christmas Carol. These are just some of the iconic novels that made Charles Dickens famous. Visit the writer's Bloomsbury home near Russell Square to learn more about his life and work.
Charles Dickens moved to 48 Doherty Street, in Bloomsbury, in 1837 and wrote Oliver Twist at this address. Today it's home to the Charles Dickens Museum, a must-visit for literary lovers in London.
3. The Foundling Museum
The Foundling Museum is just off Brunswick Square, a ten-minute walk from Russell Square. The museum tells the story of the UK's first children's charity, The Foundling Hospital. 'Foundling' is an old word for children or babies abandoned by their parents and then cared for by others.
Thomas Coram established the Foundling Hospital in 1739, allowing mothers in poverty to leave their babies to be cared for by the hospital. Today, the museum's collections include paintings, drawings and sculptures, furniture, clocks and clothing.
4. The Brunswick Centre
The Brunswick Centre is a grade II-listed shopping and cultural centre in Bloomsbury, close to Russell Square. Head here to browse various shops, including Hobbs and Skoob Books, or grab a bite to eat. The centre is home to bakeries, cafés and restaurants, including something for everyone.
There's also an award-winning cinema, Curzon Bloomsbury, at The Brunswick Centre. Plan a trip to this neighbourhood venue to see the latest art-house films in comfortable surroundings.
Cafés and restaurants, pubs and bars near Russell Square
Bloomsbury is home to many excellent cafés, coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, pubs and bars. If you're staying in a hotel near Russell Square, you can enjoy the area's best spots on your doorstep.
Cafés and coffee shops
The best cosy cafés and speciality coffee shops near Russell Square include Burr & Co., Noxy Brothers, Store Street Espresso and Ruskin's Café. Head to any of these comfortable options for breakfast, brunch or lunch; grab a pastry or order a full English, sip on tea or artisan coffee and watch the world go by. The historic Russell Square Cabmen's Shelter is a charming coffee and food hatch today; grab hot drinks and snacks and perch outside.
Restaurants
Many restaurants have homes near Russell Square, including Galvin Bar & Grill and Palm Court, for modern British menus in luxurious settings. Zeo's serves Mediterranean favourites, while Cosmoba is a relaxed Italian restaurant serving traditional pizzas and plates of pasta.
Pubs and bars
You're never too far from a pub in London, and the area around Russell Square is no exception. Traditional pubs include Friend at Hand, Marquis Cornwallis, The Queen's Larder, Museum Tavern, The Lamb and Lord John Russell.
Head to a bar near Russell Square for drinks, including cocktails, in a more modern setting. A few favourites include Atrium Bar, Fitz's Bar, The Beach Bar and The Leopard Bar.