Bond Street in London is renowned worldwide for its sophisticated boutiques, exquisite art, and fine antiques. Nestled in the heart of the upscale Mayfair district, Bond Street is also one of the most coveted properties in the game of Monopoly.
Your Luxury Guide to Bond Street London
Bond Street hosts some of the top luxury retail brands, including Burberry, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. Classic Georgian townhouses have been transformed into modern boutiques, such as the Louis Vuitton store located at 17 New Bond Street.
The street is also lined with prestigious art galleries and auction houses, as well as an array of upscale restaurants and lavish hotels.
If you’re seeking a day or night filled with luxury and elegance, Bond Street is the destination for you. Here are some of our top picks on this iconic street.
Location of Bond Street
Bond Street is nestled in London’s prestigious West End, specifically in the exclusive Mayfair neighborhood. It runs from Piccadilly to Oxford Street. Interestingly, there are two streets known as Bond Street: Old Bond Street and New Bond Street. Both are distinct roads but are commonly referenced together as Bond Street.
The original Bond Street connected Burlington Gardens to Piccadilly and was designated as Old Bond Street once New Bond Street was inaugurated in 1720.
A Brief History of Bond Street
The area that now comprises Bond Street was originally farmland surrounding Clarendon House on Piccadilly, which was redeveloped by Sir Thomas Bond. It quickly transformed into one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods, attracting illustrious residents such as Admiral Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton.
By the turn of the century, Bond Street became a popular social hub for the aristocrats and upper class living in Mayfair. This led to the establishment of many prestigious shops.
Though Bond Street saw a decline as a social hotspot in the 19th century, it has maintained its status as a prominent shopping destination in London.
Today, Bond Street is the most expensive retail street in Europe, with top-end prices soaring to $1,714/sq ft (£1,335/sq ft).
What Is Bond Street Renowned For?
Bond Street is celebrated for its high-end shopping, exceptional art galleries, and antique shops. It is home to some of the most exclusive luxury brands globally, including Gucci, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton.
From bespoke tailoring to exquisite jewelry, Bond Street showcases the finest luxury goods. However, it’s not solely recognized for shopping; the area is also distinguished for its elegant Georgian architecture and blue plaques honoring notable former residents like Lord Nelson.
Art on Bond Street
Several leading art auction houses, such as Bonhams and Sotheby’s, have a presence on Bond Street. Notably, you’ll find the striking bronze sculpture entitled Horse and Rider, created by Elisabeth Frink, positioned outside the Ralph Lauren flagship store.
In addition, there are numerous art galleries, including the Halcyon Gallery at 29 New Bond Street, which specializes in contemporary art. Eden Fine Art Gallery also highlights modern art from well-known artists like Romero Britto and David Kracov. The Richard Green Gallery at 147 New Bond St exhibits Old Master and Impressionist paintings.
Gray’s Antiques Market is situated a short walk away at 58 Davies Street, housing nearly 100 dealers spread over two floors.
The Royal Academy of Arts is located nearby on Piccadilly within Burlington House, a stunning example of Palladian architecture.
Bond Street Attractions
Be sure to visit the “Allies” statue depicting Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt engaged in conversation on a bench. Sculpted by Lawrence Holofcener, this statue was unveiled by Princess Margaret in May 1995.
This statue has become a favorite spot for passersby who can take photos sitting between these two historic world leaders.
Interestingly, the interlocking letter Cs on the lampposts in Westminster are said to commemorate Coco Chanel, a tribute from the Duke of Westminster, who was infatuated with her. Although the council mentions that the CCs denote City Council, it’s a charming urban legend!
At 103 New Bond Street, you can find the primary blue plaque honoring Admiral Lord Nelson, who resided there in 1798. Another tribute plaque is located at 147 New Bond Street, as he had also lived there a year earlier.
Bond Street in Popular Culture
This iconic London street has been prominently featured in various films, songs, and literature, including:
- Bond Street – a 1948 film by Gordon Parry about a bride’s dress.
- Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell – a novel by Susanna Clarke.
- Maid of Bond Street – a song by David Bowie.
- Mrs Dalloway – a novel by Virginia Woolf.
- Sense and Sensibility – a novel by Jane Austen.
Dining Options Near Bond Street
While there are few dining establishments directly on Old or New Bond Street, an array of cafés and restaurants can be found in the vicinity. Here are some of the best dining options in Mayfair:
- Bond Street Kitchen – located within Fenwick’s department store, perfect for a healthy light lunch.
- Goodman Mayfair – known for its steaks on Maddox Street.
- Hush – located in Lancashire Court, offering outdoor dining.
- Ladurée – renowned for its macaroons and tea in the Burlington Arcade.
- Sketch – found on Conduit Street for afternoon tea or dinner.
- Umu – a stylish Japanese restaurant on Bruton Place.
Shopping on Bond Street
Recognized as the most exclusive shopping destination in London, Bond Street is a favorite among royalty.
Brands holding the Royal Warrant on Bond Street include:
- Asprey – specializing in jewelry, gold, and silver items.
- Cartier – known for exquisite watches and jewelry; during Christmas, the store is adorned with a giant bow.
- Daks – offering menswear and womenswear.
- Smythson – renowned for luxury stationery.
Additionally, many flagship stores for international fashion labels such as Dior and Bvlgari can be found along these streets. Some notable mentions include:
- Chanel at 159 New Bond Street, recognized as the largest Chanel store globally, ideal for purchasing authentic Chanel products.
- Hermes, located in the Grade II listed Time and Life Building at 155 New Bond Street, embellished with a Henry Moore frieze on its façade.
- Ralph Lauren Flagship Store at 1 New Bond Street, housed in an Art Deco building that was once home to the National Westminster Bank.
- Salvatore Ferragamo at 24 Old Bond Street, a Grade II listed structure adorned with gilded decorations and the Atkinson Carillon bell.
Interestingly, the well-known Taylor of Old Bond Street shop is not actually located on Bond Street but on the nearby Jermyn Street in St James’s.
London’s premier art galleries and high-end antique shops are clustered around Sotheby’s auction house and the Fine Art Society toward the southern end of Bond Street.
Burlington Arcade runs parallel to Bond Street and is home to 46 boutiques, including the only men’s shoe store by Manolo Blahnik in the world.
This historic shopping arcade is one of the longest in Great Britain, extending over 196 yards. It is monitored by the Beadles, who are recognized as the oldest and smallest police force in existence.
The Royal Arcade extends from 28 Old Bond Street to 12 Albemarle Street.
This Victorian arcade boasts a stunning high glass ceiling, showcasing lovely shops like Charbonnel et Walker for gourmet truffles and Ormonde Jayne for perfumes.
For additional information on shopping in the area, you can visit The Bond Street Association’s website for a detailed list of shops along Old and New Bond Street.
Accommodation Options Near Bond Street
Mayfair boasts some stunning luxury apartments for rent. The renowned Browns Hotel on Albemarle Street and The Connaught on Carlos Place both afford luxurious five-star accommodations very close to Bond Street. The latter is also home to one of the best hotel bars in London.
Other excellent options in Mayfair include The Beaumont, Claridge’s, and The Biltmore Mayfair, the latter featuring a popular restaurant by chef Jason Atherton called The Betterment.
Best Times to Visit Bond Street
You can visit Bond Street at any hour, day or night. However, keep in mind that stores have specific opening times.
The typical hours of operation are from 10 am to 7 pm, Monday through Saturday, and from 12 pm to 6 pm on Sundays. Burlington Arcade remains open daily until 8 pm.
Getting to Bond Street
Bond Street is situated between Green Park and Oxford Street. If you’re using public transport, the closest underground stations are Green Park and Bond Street, both only a few minutes walk away.
There aren’t any public car parks on Bond Street; however, Q-Park on Old Burlington Street is conveniently close.
Final Thoughts: Your Guide to Bond Street
If you’re searching for an excellent place to shop in London, Bond Street is the ultimate destination. With its opulent shops and chic boutiques, Bond Street caters to everyone’s luxury needs.
And if you feel the need to take a break from the shopping experience, an array of cafés and restaurants are nearby. So, the next time you’re in London, make sure to visit Bond Street! For further insights into what to do in London, don’t forget to explore our other articles.
Have you ever been to Bond Street? What is your favorite store along Bond Street?
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