A local’s guide to visiting Salters’ Garden in the City of London, a historical site close to St Alphage Church and ruins of the Roman Wall!
Near the Barbican Centre, which houses one of the free libraries where you can study and work in London, lies a true historical hidden gem – Salters’ Garden.
We are here in the fabulous City of London, one of the most historic districts, home to countless hidden courtyards and secret alleys.
As you head closer to the Museum of London, you will find the ruins of St Alphage Church, which have also been transformed into a secret garden.
Salters’ Garden is just as interesting and beautiful, providing a sharp contrast to the brutalist architecture and modern buildings of the City.
London’s Salters’ Garden: A Hidden Gem Close to Barbican
Salters’ Garden belongs to the Worshipful Company of Salters, one of the “Great Twelve” livery companies of London, which received its first Royal Charter in 1394.
Originally, the Salters regulated the salt trade; salt was a vital element during the Middle Ages for food preservation, industry, and medicine.
I have spotted several historic buildings in London belonging to these livery companies, which are dotted throughout the City of London.
Salters’ Hall was bombed during the Blitz in 1941 and destroyed, much like other places I’ve mentioned, including Christchurch Greyfriars and St Dunstan in the East.
For 35 years, the Company was homeless—the garden was eventually designed by legendary interior designer David Hicks, and the Hall by Sir Basil Spence, both completed in 1976.
You will find several hidden gems there, such as a section of the ancient Roman wall – which can also be found near St Giles-without-Cripplegate church and at Noble Street – as well as a Medici vase.
Salters’ Hall Gate London
Just outside the charming Salters’ Garden stands a fascinating protected gate.
This is a wrought-iron grille dating from 1887, made for the former headquarters of the Worshipful Company of Salters on St Swithin’s Lane (near Cannon Street).
During the WWII Blitz, the guild’s building was totally destroyed by bombs, leaving only these Victorian gates standing.
You can admire the coat of arms of the Salters’ Company on them: they feature three silver “salt cellars.” You will also find their Latin motto: “Sal sapit omnia” (Salt savours all).
It is fascinating to be in a place so steeped in history; Victorian gates, a piece of the Roman wall, medieval church ruins at St Alphage right next door, a Medici vase, all surrounded by brutalist buildings and skyscrapers.
It is truly a “history lasagna,” a perfect spot to walk if you are an overthinker or simply looking for places in London to write or read.
Salters’ Garden London Photo Gallery
London’s Salters’ Garden: A Hidden Gem Close to Barbican
Once you have finished discovering Salters’ Garden and the nearby ruins of St Alphage, you will find many other historical spots in the City of London.
For instance, Cleary Garden, built on the site of a Roman bathhouse, or St Dunstan in the East, and even Postman’s Park – a nearby quiet space famous for the Watts Memorial to Heroic Self-Sacrifice.
If you wish to return to modern life, I also suggest discovering some beautiful colorful spots, as well as instagrammable cafes and unique shops to pick up some wonderful London souvenirs!
Salters’ Garden London
Address: 4 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5DE
Website: Salters’ Hall