Famous Streets
There are many Famous Streets in London that have an interesting story. Whilst you're staying in London, why not include visitng some in your plans. To make it easier we have gathered some of the best to see and why.
1. Oxford Street
Why is it famous?
Oxford Street is a major road in the City of Westminster in the West End of London, the world's biggest high street. It is Europe's busiest shopping street, with around half a million daily visitors, and as of 2012 had approximately 300 shops.
Where is it?
West end: Marble Arch
East end: Tottenham Court Road / Charing Cross Road
What is there to do?
Shop the very best high-street brands such as Topshop, Gap, River Island, Primark, X and the UK’s iconic department stores, including Selfridges, John Lewis & Partners, Debenhams, House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer. Also there is always something to eat with more than 500 restaurants within five minutes walking distance.
Journey from Romford: 42 mins
2. Abbey Road
Why is it famous?
Abbey Road is a thoroughfare in the borough of Camden and the City of Westminster in London. It is part of the B507 road. This road is best known for the Abbey Road Studios and the 1969 album, Abbey Road, by the Beatles.
Where is it?
St. John's Wood, London
South end: Quex Road, Kilburn
East end: Grove End Road, St. John's Wood
What is there to do?
- Take a picture at the Abbey Road crossing - this is famous worldwide as the spot captured on The Beatles Abbey Road album cover. The cover, which shows an image of each of The Beatles crossing Abbey Road, has become one of the most famous album sleeves of all time.
- See the Abbey Road Studios - famous recording studios have also seen the likes of Pink Floyd and Edward Elgar pass through their doors since 1931, and are still some of the best studios in the world. More recent recordings have included Kanye West, Adele and Florence and the Machine.
Journey from Romford: 58 mins
3. Brick Lane
Why is it famous?
In the 16th century, the ground in the area was discovered to be full of clay, useful for creating bricks and tiles. After the Great Fire of London, demand for bricks increased. A kiln was installed at the northern end of the road, and bricks were transported down the length of the street to Whitechapel Road.
Where is it?
Brick Lane
London
E1 5HA
What is there to do?
- Try the famous beigels at Beigel Bake.
- Relax with a gorgeous coffee from Nude Espresso.
- Browse the vinyl selection at Rough Trade East.
- Visit the Brick Lane Markets.
- Try some curry.
Journey from Romford: 34 mins
4. Regent Street
Why is it famous?
Regent Street is one of the world's most prestigious lifestyle destinations, famous for its flagship stores and international brands. It was constructed in 1819 and is named after George, the Prince Regent and was laid out under the direction of the architect John Nash and James Burton.
Where is it?
Regent Street
London
W1B 5TD
What is there to do?
Regent Street is a major shopping destination in London, it is home to several hundred stores meaning endless amount of shopping.
It also looks so beautiful at Christmas so is definitely worth visiting during the festive period.
Journey from Romford: 59 mins
5. Piccadilly Circus
Why is it famous?
Piccadilly Circus has to be the most famous road intersections in the world. It’s iconic for several reasons – the unique architecture surrounding it, the iconic advertisements that adorn the buildings and the statue of Eros in the middle. It’s a place that’s known all over the world.
Where is it?
Piccadilly Circus
London
W1D 7ET
What is there to do?
- Sit by the famous statue of Eros (a popular meeting point), or take some photos in front of the iconic advertising screens.
- This is where many parades take place such as the New Year’s Parade and St Patrick’s Day celebrations
Journey from Romford: 56 mins
6. Threadneedle Street
Why is it famous?
The street is famous as the site of the Bank of England; the bank itself is sometimes known as 'the Old Lady of Threadneedle Street' and has been based at its current location since 1734. The London Stock Exchange was also situated on Threadneedle Street until 2004, when it relocated.
Where is it?
Threadneedle Street
London
EC2R 8AW
What is there to do?
- Visit Bank of England Museum – there is more information about this in the “Top 10 Museums in London” blog (pages 16-19)
- Check out Tower 42 – it offers stunning views from the bar on the 42nd floor, Vertigo 42, where you can eat, drink and admire what London has to offer.
Journey from Romford: 40 mins
7. Carnaby Street
Why is it famous?
Carnaby Street is a pedestrianised shopping street in Soho in the City of Westminster, Central London. Close to Oxford Street and Regent Street, it is home to fashion and lifestyle retailers, including many independent fashion boutiques.
Where is it?
Carnaby Street
Soho, London
What is there to do?
- Abbey Road crossing - this is famous worldwide as the spot captured on The Beatles Abbey Road album cover. The cover, which shows an image of each of The Beatles crossing Abbey Road, has become one of the most famous album sleeves of all time.
- Abbey Road Studios - famous recording studios have also seen the likes of Pink Floyd and Edward Elgar pass through their doors since 1931, and are still some of the best studios in the world. More recent recordings have included Kanye West, Adele and Florence and the Machine.
Journey from Romford: 41 mins
