The London Square: Walking Tour with Todd Longstaffe-Gowan

Saturday, 15 September 2012

The Bishopsgate Institute, 2pm (Walk)
Modern-day London abounds with a multitude of green enclaves, known as squares, which are one of England’s greatest contribution to the development of European town planning and urban form. Exploring Soho, Golden and St James’s Squares, The London Square author Todd Longstaffe-Gowan delves into the history, evolution, and social implications of squares and how they have played a crucial role in the development of the English capital.

Time: 2pm
Venue: N/A (Walking Tour)
Tickets: £8 (£6 concessions). Buy tickets here. Ticket includes £5 discount off Todd Longstaffe-Gowan's latest book, The London Square, when purchased at Hatchards Bookshop after the walk.

More about 'The London Square'

Modern-day London abounds with a multitude of gardens, enclosed by railings and surrounded by houses, which attest to the English love of nature. These green enclaves, known as squares, are among the most distinctive and admired features of the metropolis and are England's greatest contribution to the development of European town planning and urban form. Traditionally, inhabitants who overlooked these gated communal gardens paid for their maintenance and had special access to them. As such, they have long been synonymous with privilege, elegance, and prosperous metropolitan living. They epitomize the classical notion of rus in urbe, the integration of nature within the urban plan - a concept that continues to shape cities to this day.

Todd Longstaffe-Gowan delves into the history, evolution, and social implications of squares, which have been an important element in the planning and expansion of London since the early 17th century. As an amenity that fosters health and well-being and a connection to the natural world, the square has played a crucial role in the development of the English capital.