Finsbury Tower in London under a clear blue sky

Artillery Ground

Artillery Ground London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to the Artillery Ground in London

Set in the historic district of Spitalfields, the Artillery Ground is a living testament to London’s layered history—spanning medieval monastic origins, centuries of military innovation, and a vibrant urban community. Originally part of the Priory and Hospital of St Mary Spital, the site became an artillery training ground in 1538, serving as the home of the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), one of the world’s oldest military organizations. Today, the Artillery Ground blends its storied past with contemporary sporting events and cultural gatherings, all within a unique green space in the heart of London. Visitors can explore historic streets like Artillery Lane and Artillery Passage, appreciate Georgian and 17th-century architecture, and immerse themselves in a diverse cultural landscape. While the ground itself is mostly private, it opens to the public for select events, and the surrounding Spitalfields area offers pedestrian-friendly access, bustling markets, and abundant photographic opportunities.

This detailed guide offers everything you need to plan your visit—historical context, visiting hours, ticket information, accessibility advice, and tips for enjoying Spitalfields’ unique atmosphere. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, sports fan, or cultural explorer, use this resource to maximize your experience. For further details, consult The Past, the Honourable Artillery Company website, and The Working Line.

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting the Artillery Ground, Spitalfields
Artillery Ground London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance
Visiting the Artillery Ground London: Tickets, Hours & Events Guide
Artillery Ground Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide for London Historical Sites
Visuals and Media
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Medieval Origins and Monastic Landscape

The land now known as the Artillery Ground was part of the outer precinct of the Priory and Hospital of St Mary Spital, one of medieval London’s largest religious sites. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, the land was repurposed for secular use. Early maps, such as the Copperplate map of c.1555, show the priory’s transformation into tenements and gardens, with open fields beyond (The Past).

Establishment as an Artillery Ground (1538–1682)

Royal Foundation and Early Use
In 1538, the southern part of the former monastic precinct, called the Teasel Ground, was leased for artillery and gunnery practice. The area was enclosed with a brick wall, sections of which have survived archaeologically (The Past). It became the training site for the “Fraternity or Guild of Artillery of Longbows, Crossbows and Handguns,” later evolving into the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) (London Fandom).

Military Training and Innovation
The Artillery Ground was central to Tudor and Stuart military technology, evidenced by finds such as timber firing platforms, musket balls, and a possible cannon ball (The Past). Buildings included stables, stores, an armoury, and the brick-built Master Gunner’s house from 1581.

Expansion and Fortification
During the 1630s, a large “Star Fort” was constructed for military drills. Archaeological digs have revealed a deep ditch and shallow graves, potentially linked to training accidents or religious dissenters (The Past).

Transition to Urban Development (1682–18th Century)

From Military Ground to Suburb
By the late 17th century, the Artillery Ground’s military role declined. The HAC moved to Bunhill Fields in 1658, and the land was sold to speculative builders in 1682, paving the way for new streets—Fort Street, Gun Street, Artillery Passage, and Artillery Lane (London Fandom).

Arrival of Immigrant Communities
This urban renewal coincided with the arrival of French Huguenot refugees, skilled in silk weaving, who settled in the area and contributed to Spitalfields’ growth as a textile hub (The Past).

Mapping and Urban Fabric
Maps from 1676 by Ogilby and Morgan document the evolving street layout. By the mid-18th century, the area had matured into a thriving suburb centered on Spitalfields Market (The Past).

Early Housing and Commercial Development
Development along Artillery Lane and Passage began in the 1640s, with surviving houses like No. 3 Artillery Passage showcasing period architecture (British History Online).

Commercialization and Changing Uses
In the 18th and 19th centuries, residential buildings gained shopfronts and the area’s fabric reflected a blend of commercial and domestic life (British History Online).

Administrative Changes
In 1900, the Old Artillery Ground and Liberty of Norton Folgate merged into the Metropolitan Borough of Stepney, and later became part of Tower Hamlets (London Fandom).

Visiting the Artillery Ground, Spitalfields

Location and Access

Located in Spitalfields, the Artillery Ground is accessible via Liverpool Street Station and Shoreditch High Street Overground. Bus routes and pedestrian-friendly streets make the area easy to visit.

Visiting Hours and Entry

The Artillery Ground’s streets and public spaces are open for exploration without charge. The grounds themselves are private and open only during scheduled events or tours; check the HAC website for current access details.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided walking tours of Spitalfields, including the Artillery Ground area, are offered by local organizations. Special events and open days provide deeper engagement with the site’s history and culture.

Accessibility

The area is generally accessible, but some historic lanes and buildings may be challenging for those with mobility impairments. Confirm accessibility for specific events or tours in advance.

Nearby Attractions and Photographic Spots

Spitalfields Market, Artillery Lane, and Artillery Passage offer historic architecture and bustling market scenes, perfect for photography and further exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there entry fees?
A: Public streets are free; some events or tours may require tickets.

Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Weekends often feature markets and events.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through various local organizations and on special open days.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, but check for restrictions during private or military events.

Artillery Ground London: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

The Artillery Ground, bordered by Artillery Lane, Gun Street, and Bishopsgate, is a rare green space with a rich military heritage. Still home to the Honourable Artillery Company, the ground is not open to the public daily but is accessible during events such as open days and festivals. Tickets for public events can be purchased via the HAC website, with prices and schedules varying by event.

The grounds host sports—especially cricket—as well as corporate, private, and military events. The HAC’s headquarters, Armoury House, is a listed Georgian building and the regimental headquarters for ceremonies and commemorations. The site is wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry and accessible restrooms. For event updates, visit the HAC website.

Visiting the Artillery Ground London: Tickets, Hours & Events Guide

Events such as the London Concours, a luxury car show, and cricket matches provide rare public access to the grounds. Tickets must be purchased in advance—check the HAC official website or event-specific sites for details. During events, amenities include restrooms, food and beverage stalls, and accessible facilities. Moorgate and Old Street stations are nearby, and accessibility provisions are in place for visitors with special needs (Ents24; ianVisits).

Photography is usually allowed during public events. The grounds offer a peaceful, historic atmosphere set against the London skyline. Dress smart-casual for events and plan for outdoor weather conditions.

Artillery Ground Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide for London Historical Sites

The Artillery Ground is located in Finsbury, north of the City of London, with the main entrance at Armoury House, City Road, London EC1Y 2BQ (HAC official site). Public access is typically during special events, open days, or by museum appointment. The HAC Museum, within Armoury House, is open by appointment and free to visit, though donations are encouraged (IanVisits). For private hire, including weddings and corporate events, contact the HAC.

Facilities include restrooms, catering during events, and wheelchair accessibility. The grounds offer a tranquil space with a rich military legacy, and the museum showcases regimental artifacts and historical documents.

Nearby, explore Spitalfields and Artillery Lane, Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, and the wider City of London for more historic sites. Security is present during events, and standard London travel precautions apply (EasyTravel4U).

Visuals and Media

Historic map of the Artillery Ground with alt text: “Historic map of Artillery Ground London showing its boundaries and surroundings.”
Cricket match photo with alt text: “Cricket match at Artillery Ground London, showcasing the green pitch and pavilion.”
Armoury House image with alt text: “Georgian Armoury House at the Artillery Ground, London, headquarters of the Honourable Artillery Company.”

Browse the HAC website for virtual tours and event photo galleries.

Conclusion

The Artillery Ground stands at the crossroads of London’s history—military, architectural, and cultural. Its rare public access during special events, proximity to Spitalfields Market, and enduring connection to the Honourable Artillery Company make it a unique destination. Plan your visit around event schedules, book tickets in advance, and explore the wider area for a rich, multifaceted experience. For the latest updates and guided tours, visit the Honourable Artillery Company website.

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