Hatton Garden: London’s Diamond District

Hatton Garden is a street in the City of London, and is famous for being the home of many jewellers and diamond merchants. Also sometimes called the diamond district of London, it's also where you'll find some of the most exquisite engagement rings in London. If you're looking for something truly special to propose with, then a ring from Hatton Garden is the way to go.

In this blog post, I am going to run you through what makes Hatton Garden such a special place to buy engagement rings, wedding rings and all your other jewellery.

What to expect:

-        Why Hatton Garden
-        Planning your trip
-        Do I need an appointment?
-        Other things to do whilst in the area
-        BONUS: Fun facts about Hatton Garden

Why Hatton Garden

Hatton Garden was more recently launched into the spotlight due to the infamous Hatton Garden Heist, but it is more widely known as the Diamond District of London due to its selection of jewellery shops that house beautiful diamonds and engagement rings. The ‘go-to’ place to buy a diamond engagement ring these days, it’s a perfect place to buy that ring your fiancé has been asking for... and for a fraction of the price.

Hatton garden is mostly independent family run jewellers so you're not stuck paying for branded goods, but getting the same if not better-quality rings (A lot of high-end jewellers use Hatton Garden workshops).

Although when first coming into Hatton Garden you may be a little overwhelmed by the choice, after spending a little time you will soon make sense of it all and realise there is so much on offer. With each store having expertise in a wide range of things from antiques and coloured stones to the latest ring trends, there is something for everyone.

Planning your trip

If you're planning a trip to Hatton Garden, it's a good idea to do a little research first. With the vast choice of jewellers sometimes coming in with no idea of what you want can be a little bit daunting. Maybe do a little bit of research on the basics of diamond knowledge (take a look at our guide here) but also know the wealth of knowledge in the area is undeniable considering it has been a home for jewellers for over 100 years and some jewellers today have been there for 30+ years, so expect to learn a thing or two whilst you visit.

If you're wondering what makes us unique, Webley London prides itself on our eye for detail and craftsmanship. We believe in creating lasting memories with our jewellery rather than making quick money. We understand jewellery is about the journey and the meaning so we work to create the best pieces with can with your requirements in mind. But don’t let me tell you all about it... experience it for yourself.

Do I need an appointment?

Hatton Garden is a mix of appointment-based jewellers as well as walk-ins. So, if you aren't too sure about who you wish to visit then feel free to visit the garden and browse. Although during busy times such as weekends and bank holidays, as well as occasions like Christmas, I would advise making bookings to make sure you can be seen as these times are busy in Hatton Garden.

We personally do walk-ins as well as appointments. You can book an appointment here if you like or feel free to visit us whenever suits you. An appointment allows us to get everything set up for your arrival, meaning we can give you the best experience possible.

Other things to do whilst in the area

If you're spending a day in Hatton Garden, there are plenty of other things to do. Just next to Hatton Garden is Leather Lane which is home to one of the best food markets in London, offering everything from Mexican to Brazilian cuisine, so you can refuel after all that shopping. And if you're looking for something to do in the evening, there's plenty of nightlife to be had in the area, with venues like Bounce which offers drinks and table tennis and a recently opened BeAtOne.

BONUS: Fun facts about Hatton Garden

1.     Hatton Garden is home to over 300 businesses as well as 55 shops. The shops are mostly made up of jewellers and jewellery trade shops. But many creative businesses have moved into the area such as photography studios and global digital marketing agencies.

2.     Sir Hiram Maxim created the first machine gun in Hatton Garden from a small factory in 1884. Known as the ‘Maxim machine gun’.

3.     Charles Dickens lived in Hatton Garden for part of his life. It played a part in setting the scene for a few of his novels. The novel Little Dorrit mention the bleeding-heart yard which is now a well-known restaurant on Greville street right next to Hatton Garden. Another Novel based on the street is Saffron Hill which is next to Greville street and inspired the tale of Oliver Twist.

4.     The street is named after Sir Christopher Hatton, a London politician and a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I. He owned the garden of Ely place which is now the location that we speak of and why it is called Hatton Garden.

So, if you're looking for a one-stop-shop for all your jewellery needs, then Hatton Garden is the place to go. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, wedding ring, pair of earrings or a necklace, you'll be able to find it here. So, what are you waiting for? Start browsing today!