Portman Square

Portman Square is a private garden square in Marylebone, central London. It lies at the western end of Wigmore Street, with Cavendish Square to the east. The square is surrounded by grand townhouses built for wealthy residents on long leases. The Portman Estate still owns the communal gardens, which remain private for residents. A former infantry barracks once stood between Portman and Orchard Streets before its demolition in the 1860s. The square has a distinguished history tied to notable figures. It was developed between 1765 and 1784 on land owned by Henry William Portman. A drinking fountain at the east end honours Sir John James Hamilton, provided by his widow Mariana Augusta. The Hamilton Memorial Drinking Fountain is protected as a Grade II-listed structure. Among past residents were the 10th Duke of Hamilton and Princess Louise, who lived at No. 15 until her death in 1931. Visitors find a quiet, elegant square with fine architecture. About a third of the north side is Grade I-listed, including houses designed by Robert Adam and James Wyatt. Home House, once home to the Courtauld Institute, and the Churchill Hotel, with its Michelin-starred restaurant, overlook the gardens. The square’s private nature and historic associations make it a rare glimpse of aristocratic London.