Spencer Square

Spencer Square is a historic Regency and Georgian residential square. It is famous for its well-preserved period architecture, tranquil community-led gardens, sporting facilities, and deep historical connections to legendary cultural figures.

The Square’s name originates from the prominent local Spencer family, who owned the land before the Georgian-era square was developed. Prior to the construction of the surrounding Grade II-listed homes, the site was utilized as a military parade ground and cavalry barracks during the Napoleonic Wars. Click here for information on the Architecture.

Vincent Van Gogh

The square’s most famous resident was the Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, who lived here in the spring of 1876 at the age of 23. He rented an attic room at 11 Spencer Square while working as a language teacher at a nearby boys’ boarding school. Though he was not yet a painter, some of his earliest known sketches were pen-and-ink drawings of the sea view from the school’s window.

The central lawn is named the “Van Gogh Garden”. It features a prominent bronze bust of the artist sculpted by Anthony Padgett, surrounded by sunflowers.

Blue plaques mark the buildings where Van Gogh lived and worked.

Wimbledon Links

The square has historic ties to Spencer Gore, the winner of the very first Wimbledon Championship in 1877, who is buried in Ramsgate.

Tennis & Pickleball

The Spencer Square Tennis Courts feature three outdoor hard courts and six dedicated pickleball courts.

Vincent’s Café

Vincent’s Café located in the tennis pavilion offers outdoor seating overlooking both the courts and the central gardens.

Walks :

You can start a Self Guided Walk from here, to follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, click here for more information.

Dog Friendly :

Yes. Dogs are welcome in the square itself, and the on-site cafe, Vincent’s, caters specifically to pooches with complimentary tennis balls, treats, and water bowls.

Accessibility :

Accessible for pedestrians, pushchairs, and wheelchair users, featuring step-free access and flat pathways.

Activities :

Occasional activities mainly based around the Tennis Courts and Café. For more information on activities, see the Visit Ramsgate Monthly Events Calendar or Vincent’s Café’s Social media.

MAP

CONTACT

📍Address : Spencer Square, Ramsgate CT11 9LA/CT11 9LD

🌐 Website (Volunteer Group) : Click here