Blackburne's Mews, London
Blackburne’s Mews is a discreet and characterful residential mews street located in the heart of Mayfair, within the prestigious City of Westminster, London. This quiet enclave runs south from Upper Brook Street to Upper Grosvenor Street, forming a short yet elegant corridor of converted stables and carriage houses. On its western side, it is intersected by Culross Street, which itself ends in a cul-de-sac, adding to the seclusion of the area.
Street Layout and Surroundings
Blackburne’s Mews is a classic example of a London mews: narrow, cobbled, and largely residential. It serves as a hidden pocket in an otherwise grand and bustling neighbourhood. With its entrances from Upper Brook Street and Upper Grosvenor Street, both of which are wide and architecturally impressive, the mews forms an unexpected contrast of intimacy and scale.
To the west is Culross Street, another mews that intersects at a T-junction and immediately ends in a quiet cul-de-sac. This intersection further emphasises the privacy and charm that make Blackburne’s Mews appealing to residents seeking discretion and luxury in central London.
Historical Background
The mews dates to the early 19th century, having been constructed to serve the grand townhouses of Mayfair. Like many mews streets, it was originally built as a service lane where horses, carriages, and domestic staff were housed behind the more opulent façades of the main streets. Over the decades, these utilitarian structures have been transformed into fashionable and highly desirable residences.
Origin of the Name
Blackburne’s Mews is believed to be named after a prominent landowning family or developer active in the 18th or 19th century. While exact records are scarce, the name “Blackburne” was relatively common among landed families and developers in London during this period. The possessive form in the name suggests it may have once been associated with private ownership or an estate worker’s lane.
Architecture and Character
The buildings lining Blackburne’s Mews are mainly two or three-storey homes with a blend of traditional brickwork and modern refurbishments. Some properties retain charming stable-style doors and original mews architecture, while others have been updated with high-spec interiors, offering a blend of old and new.
Despite its small size, the street has a feeling of exclusivity, enhanced by its cobblestones, iron railings, and hanging flower baskets. The lack of commercial activity also contributes to its tranquil atmosphere.
Nearby Points of Interest
Blackburne’s Mews is located within easy walking distance of several of Mayfair’s most iconic attractions, including:
- Grosvenor Square – A grand Georgian garden square just minutes away.
- Hyde Park – One of London’s most famous green spaces, a short walk to the west.
- Park Lane – A major road with luxury hotels and views across the park.
- Mount Street – A chic shopping street known for designer boutiques and fine dining.
Transport Connections
The mews benefits from excellent access to public transport. The nearest London Underground stations are:
- Marble Arch Station – Central Line (about 7 minutes on foot)
- Green Park Station – Victoria, Jubilee, and Piccadilly Lines (about 10 minutes away)
- Hyde Park Corner Station – Piccadilly Line (also around 10 minutes)
Bus stops are conveniently located along Park Lane and Oxford Street, providing access to numerous routes across central London, including the 6, 23, 36, and 390.
Real Estate and Living
As of mid-2025, residential property in Blackburne’s Mews commands premium prices. Typical freehold mews houses range between 1,500 to 2,500 sq ft (140 to 230 sq metres), depending on refurbishment quality. Recent sales show asking prices from £4.5 million to over £7 million, reflecting the high desirability of the address.
This is well above the average for greater London, where similar-sized properties outside the central zones may sell for one-quarter of the price. The price premium reflects not only the postcode but the exclusivity, privacy, and historic charm offered by a mews location in Mayfair.
Fun Fact
Like many mews in the area, Blackburne’s Mews has appeared in property and lifestyle magazines as a quintessential example of “hidden” luxury. Though quiet and narrow, it’s one of the places where film scouts often look for authentic London charm with minimal foot traffic—ideal for discreet filming and photography.
Quick Facts
- Location: Mayfair, City of Westminster, London
- Connects: Upper Brook Street (north) to Upper Grosvenor Street (south)
- Intersected by: Culross Street (T-junction on west side)
- Historical Use: 19th-century mews for horses and carriages
- Current Use: Residential, luxury homes
- Nearby Attractions: Grosvenor Square, Hyde Park, Mount Street
- Nearest Underground: Marble Arch, Green Park, Hyde Park Corner
- Bus Access: Routes along Park Lane and Oxford Street
- Real Estate (2025): £4.5m–£7m for 1,500–2,500 sq ft (140–230 sq m)
- Street Character: Quiet, cobbled, exclusive, with preserved period features
Map of Blackburne's Mews, London
Painting of Blackburne's Mews, London