Aldwych, London
Aldwych is a distinctive crescent-shaped street in the City of Westminster, London, forming a partial loop that connects to the West End's Strand at both ends. Nestled between some of London’s most iconic cultural venues and commercial buildings, Aldwych serves as a prominent link in the capital’s historic and entertainment districts.
Street Layout and Surroundings
Aldwych begins and ends at the Strand, curving around to form an arc to the north. This elegant loop encloses a section of buildings, with notable structures such as Bush House and Australia House lining the street. Aldwych intersects with several smaller streets including Kingsway, Drury Lane (via the nearby Kemble Street), and India Place. Nearby streets such as Drury Lane and Long Acre lie to the north, further embedding Aldwych in the vibrant fabric of central London.
The street is relatively wide, accommodating bus routes, taxis, and delivery vehicles, and is lined with mature London plane trees that lend it a genteel atmosphere. The area is a popular thoroughfare for pedestrians heading between Covent Garden, Holborn, and the Embankment.
History and Origins
Aldwych was laid out in the early 20th century as part of a major redevelopment of the area, with construction beginning in 1901 and completion in 1905. It was built to improve traffic flow and modernise the medieval street plan. Its creation formed part of a larger civic effort to open up the congested city with grander, more ordered roads.
The name Aldwych is derived from the Old English word *ald wic*, meaning “old settlement” or “old village.” Historically, this part of the Strand area was a Saxon settlement prior to the Norman Conquest. The name is pronounced AWL-dich /ˈɔːl.dɪtʃ/.
Connecting Streets
- Catherine Street
- Drury Lane
- Houghton Street
- Kingsway
- Melbourne Place
- Strand
Nearby Attractions and Landmarks
Aldwych is rich in cultural and architectural heritage. Highlights along or near the street include:
- Australia House – A grand Edwardian building housing the Australian High Commission. Its majestic interiors famously served as Gringotts Wizarding Bank in the Harry Potter films.
- Bush House – Once the headquarters of the BBC World Service, now part of King’s College London.
- Novello Theatre – One of London’s renowned West End theatres, staging musicals and classic dramas.
- Somerset House – Though officially located off the Strand, this major arts and culture centre is only steps away from Aldwych.
- Aldwych Theatre – A Grade II listed theatre known for high-calibre performances.
Transport Connections
Nearest London Underground Stations
Several London Underground stations are within walking distance of Aldwych:
- Temple Station – District and Circle lines
- Holborn Station – Central and Piccadilly lines
- Chancery Lane Station – Central line
Aldwych once had its own Underground station—Aldwych Station—which closed to the public in 1994. The disused station is occasionally used for film and television productions.
Bus Services
Numerous bus stops line Aldwych and its immediate vicinity, offering routes to destinations such as Oxford Street, Euston, Waterloo, and the City. Regular buses include routes 1, 11, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 168, and 243, with night services available.
Real Estate and Property Values
As of mid-2025, Aldwych is largely commercial in nature, though there are some residential apartments and serviced flats in nearby buildings. Due to its prime location in central London, property prices here are above the city's average. A modern two-bedroom apartment measuring about 900 sq ft (84 sq m) in a converted historic building might be listed for sale at around £1.8 million, with rental values exceeding £5,500 per month1.
Studio apartments (approximately 400 sq ft / 37 sq m) in the vicinity rent for around £2,200–£2,800 per month, depending on amenities and furnishings. Prices reflect the proximity to the West End, cultural institutions, and government buildings.
Fun Fact
Aldwych Station, although closed, has a cult following among urban explorers and history enthusiasts. It is a popular filming location, used in productions such as *Atonement*, *V for Vendetta*, and *Sherlock*. Occasionally, the London Transport Museum offers guided tours of the station’s platforms and tunnels.
Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, London
- Street type: Curving crescent that joins the Strand at both ends
- Name origin: Old English *ald wic*, meaning "old village"
- Pronunciation: AWL-dich /ˈɔːl.dɪtʃ/
- Established: 1901–1905
- Main landmarks: Australia House, Bush House, Novello Theatre, Aldwych Theatre
- Underground stations: Temple, Holborn, Chancery Lane
- Bus routes: 1, 11, 26, 59, 68, 76, 87, 91, 168, 243 (plus night buses)
- Nearby areas: West End, Covent Garden, Holborn
- Property prices (2025): ~£1.8M for 900 sq ft flat; rentals from £2,200/month
- Fun fact: Disused Aldwych Station often features in film and TV productions
References
Map of Aldwych, London
Painting of Aldwych, London