Bedford Street, London
Bedford Street is a short but historically rich road in the City of Westminster, forming a small part of the bustling West End of London. It stretches southeast from the junction of Garrick Street and New Row to the Strand, one of London’s most iconic thoroughfares. Despite its modest length, Bedford Street is steeped in heritage and plays host to a lively mix of businesses, residential addresses, and connections to London’s cultural and commercial hubs.
Pronunciation and Location
The name “Bedford” is typically pronounced as BED-fuhd, and in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈbɛdfəd/.
Connecting Streets
Street Layout and Traffic
Bedford Street begins as a two-way street at the junction of Garrick Street and New Row. It remains so until it intersects with Chandos Place. From that point, it continues as a one-way route heading southeast towards the Strand. The traffic design reflects the street’s compact size and central positioning within the often-congested West End.
History and Etymology
The street traces its origins to the 17th century, when it was laid out as part of the Bedford Estate development. It was named after the Russell family, the Dukes of Bedford, who were among the major landowners in central London during this period. This development helped establish the urban fabric of Covent Garden and the surrounding area. Although it has evolved over time, the street retains echoes of its early planning and aristocratic roots.
Local Attractions and Sights
While Bedford Street itself is primarily a working street, its surroundings are teeming with notable destinations. Within easy walking distance are:
- Covent Garden – Famous for its piazza, shopping, and Royal Opera House
- The National Gallery – Located on nearby Trafalgar Square
- Adelphi Theatre and Vaudeville Theatre – Along the Strand
- St Martin-in-the-Fields – A historic church near Charing Cross
The immediate vicinity includes charming eateries, small galleries, and boutique offices, making it a quiet gem amidst the bustle.
Public Transport Links
Underground Stations
Bedford Street is within easy reach of several London Underground stations. The closest are:
- Charing Cross Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines)
- Leicester Square Station (Northern and Piccadilly lines)
Both stations are within a 5-minute walk, providing quick access to much of Greater London.
Bus Routes
Several bus stops are located on the Strand and Charing Cross Road. Routes serving these stops include:
- Bus 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139, 176
These routes provide direct links to destinations such as Oxford Street, Aldwych, Trafalgar Square, and Waterloo.
Real Estate and Property Values
As of Q2 2025, Bedford Street remains part of a highly desirable property market typical of central Westminster. Residential properties on the street are relatively rare and often converted from period buildings. Typical flats range from:
- Studio apartments: approx. 400 sq ft (37 sq m)
- One-bedroom flats: 550–700 sq ft (51–65 sq m)
- Two-bedroom flats: 800–1,200 sq ft (74–111 sq m)
Sale prices average around £1,400–£2,200 per sq ft (£15,000–£23,500 per sq m), depending on layout and finish. A one-bedroom flat could command between £900,000 and £1.4 million, while a two-bedroom may sell for £1.6–£2.5 million.
Rental prices in mid-2025 range from £600 to £950 per week for one-bedroom flats and up to £1,500 per week for two-bedroom units, reflecting strong demand for compact, centrally located residences.
Commercial properties are mostly office and retail units. Prime retail spots on the lower half of Bedford Street near the Strand attract rates upward of £150–£250 per sq ft annually, depending on visibility and frontage.
Fun Fact
Bedford Street was once home to publishing houses and literary figures in the 19th century. In the 1860s, it was known for its printers and bookbinders, a nod to the Strand’s long tradition as a publishing hub.
Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, West End of London
- Connects: Garrick Street/New Row to the Strand
- Traffic: Two-way until Chandos Place, then one-way to the Strand
- Named After: Dukes of Bedford, 17th-century landowners
- Pronunciation: BED-fuhd (/ˈbɛdfəd/)
- Nearest Stations: Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern), Leicester Square (Northern, Piccadilly)
- Nearby Buses: Routes 6, 9, 11, 15, 23, 87, 91, 139, 176
- Residential Prices (2025): £1,400–£2,200 per sq ft
- Rental Rates (2025): £600–£1,500 per week
- Nearby Attractions: Covent Garden, The Strand theatres, National Gallery
Map of Bedford Street, London
Painting of Bedford Street, London