Finsbury Circus

As I walk through the City of London and go from Liverpool Street Station to Moorgate, or vice versa, one place that never fails to catch my eye is Finsbury Circus. If you're working in the Square Mile, you'll know Finsbury Circus. It's a little oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets.

Modern-Day Oasis

Today, Finsbury Circus remains a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. It's where office workers, residents, and visitors can escape the urban grind, enjoy a stroll, or relax on the well-manicured lawns. The park is graced with beautiful flowerbeds, sculptures, and even a bowling green, keeping alive the spirit of leisure and tranquillity that its creators envisioned centuries ago. It has a Lawn Bowls in the centre, which has existed in the gardens since 1925. A bandstand built-in 1955 is located nearby.

Is there an actual circus in Finsbury Circus? Read on to find out because it's steeped in history.

Finsbury Circus - A Name without a Circus

"Is there a circus in Finsbury Circus?" The short answer is no. Finsbury Circus is not home to acrobats, clowns, or performing animals. Plus, no fanfare or anything resembling a big top. The circus's name comes from the elliptical shape of the space. It is a lovely open space in the heart of the Square Mile.

A Glimpse into History

The story of this lovely oasis dates back to the 17th century when it was conceived as part of the rapid expansion of London during the reign of Charles II. The original houses, the last of which were demolished in 1921, were intended for merchants and gentlemen. London grew rapidly then, and the need for green spaces within the city became apparent.

The architect and surveyor Charles Bridgeman was the founder of Finsbury Circus. He was commissioned to design a beautiful park in what was then known as Moor Fields. It was initially part of the Manor of Finsbury, which had existed since the twelfth century. The area was originally marshy land used for sports and recreation. However, Bridgeman's vision was to transform this space into a place of refined beauty and relaxation for the residents of London.

The gardens had previously been a private space for the freeholders or leaseholders of the surrounding buildings, who objected to their compulsory purchase, fearing that their use by the public would create a nuisance which would lower the value of their property.

The Influence of London's Urban Evolution

As London continued to evolve and expand, Finsbury Circus underwent several transformations. Prominent landscape architects, including William Mason and William Atkinson, redesigned its landscape in the 18th and 19th centuries. The park became a symbolic part of London's urban fabric, known for its elegant circular layout, lush greenery, and a central area adorned with sculptures and fountains.

The Crossrail Project

Between 2010 and 2020, a significant portion of the central gardens underwent a major journey as they made way for the construction of the Liverpool Street Crossrail project. This ambitious project involved the excavation of a remarkable 16-meter diameter shaft, plunging an impressive 42 meters into the earth's depths. This formidable shaft was the gateway for constructing platform tunnels that would eventually snake beneath the bustling city streets.

Originally slated for completion in September 2018, the project encountered its fair share of challenges, primarily management-related issues. Consequently, the timeline was pushed beyond the anticipated deadline, causing a ripple effect on the project's finances. By April 2019, the budget had swelled by a substantial £896,700, a consequence of the unforeseen hurdles that had to be overcome.

However, despite the obstacles and financial constraints, the dedication and persistence of the project team prevailed. It was a journey marked by perseverance and commitment to delivering a remarkable feat of engineering. Finally, in 2020, the fruits of their labour were realised, and the Liverpool Street Crossrail project was completed, leaving behind a legacy of modern infrastructure and connectivity in the heart of London.

Parting Comments

While Finsbury Circus may not host a traditional circus in the modern sense, it is a testament to London's rich history, urban development, and the enduring beauty of well-planned green spaces. So, the next time you pass through this charming circular park from Liverpool Street Station to Moorgate, remember that its name carries a legacy of architectural ingenuity, urban evolution, and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty within the city's heart.

Thank you for your attention

Best wishes

Tabby