Carlton Gardens, London
Carlton Gardens is a quiet and exclusive street tucked within the prestigious district of St James's, in the City of Westminster, central London. Known for its proximity to key landmarks and for hosting high-end properties, this elegant enclave is steeped in history and charm.
Layout and Structure
Carlton Gardens comprises two distinct sections, both situated at the western end of the grand Carlton House Terrace. The northern segment is a short cul-de-sac that links Carlton House Terrace to Pall Mall, while the southern segment loops to the west of Carlton House Terrace, curving gently back upon itself.
The entire street is less than 200 metres in length, and vehicular access is very limited, with most of the street restricted to local traffic and deliveries. It is not a through road, which adds to its serene and exclusive character.
History of Carlton Gardens
Carlton Gardens was developed in the mid-19th century as part of the broader plans to create Carlton House Terrace on land formerly occupied by Carlton House, the residence of the Prince Regent (later George IV). The area was designed by the famed architect John Nash, whose neoclassical vision reshaped much of the West End. The street became part of a larger scheme to transform this area into a refined residential district bordering The Mall and St James's Park.
Origin of the Name
The name "Carlton Gardens" is derived from Carlton House, which formerly stood nearby. The word Carlton is pronounced 'KAHRL-tən' (/ˈkɑːltən/ 
in the International Phonetic Alphabet). The naming commemorates the grandeur of the royal residence that once graced the area.
Character and Atmosphere
The street exudes a quiet elegance that is characteristic of St James's. With its period architecture, manicured greenery, and low traffic levels, Carlton Gardens feels almost hidden from the bustle of central London. This exclusivity makes it particularly desirable among diplomats, elite residents, and organisations seeking privacy and prestige.
Nearby Sights and Attractions
Despite its seclusion, Carlton Gardens lies within walking distance of numerous London landmarks. Nearby attractions include:
- St James’s Park – Just across the Mall, offering green space and views of Buckingham Palace.
- The Mall – A grand ceremonial road leading to Buckingham Palace.
- The Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) – Located nearby in Carlton House Terrace.
- Admiralty Arch and Trafalgar Square – A short stroll to the northeast.
- St James’s Palace – Historic royal residence nearby on Pall Mall.
Also notable is 1 Carlton Gardens, a striking building known for having served as the wartime headquarters of Charles de Gaulle’s Free French Forces during the Second World War.
Property and Real Estate
Real estate in Carlton Gardens is among the most expensive in London. As of 2024, prices for properties here typically range from £15 million to over £30 million, depending on the building's size, condition, and historic value. Flats and townhouses often exceed 5,000 sq ft (465 sq m), with some reaching 10,000 sq ft (930 sq m) or more.
These properties offer grand interiors, often with heritage-listed facades and private security. For context, the average house price in central London at the same time was approximately £1.1 million, making Carlton Gardens significantly above average.
Transport Connections
Nearest Underground Stations
- Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines) – About 7 minutes on foot.
- Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines) – Roughly 8 minutes' walk.
- Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) – Around 10 minutes' walk.
Nearby Bus Stops
Bus stops are located along Pall Mall and Trafalgar Square, providing routes to all corners of the city. Routes include the 9, 12, 15, 23, 88, 139, and 453, among others.
Fun Fact
Winston Churchill is said to have worked in the vicinity of Carlton Gardens during WWII, and the nearby government buildings in Whitehall saw much of Britain’s wartime command activity. Carlton Gardens’ discreet elegance made it ideal for diplomatic and resistance operations during the war.
Quick Facts
- Location: St James’s, City of Westminster, London
- Length: Approx. 200 metres, split in two parts
- Traffic: Mostly local access only, non-through road
- History: Developed in the mid-19th century as part of Carlton House Terrace project
- Name Origin: From Carlton House, residence of the Prince Regent
- Pronunciation: 'KAHRL-tən' (/ˈkɑːltən/)
- Nearby Sights: The Mall, St James’s Park, ICA, Trafalgar Square, St James’s Palace
- Property Prices (2024): £15–£30+ million; typically 5,000–10,000 sq ft (465–930 sq m)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Charing Cross, Green Park, Piccadilly Circus
- Nearby Bus Routes: 9, 12, 15, 23, 88, 139, 453
- Fun Fact: Home to wartime operations by Free French forces under General de Gaulle
Map of Carlton Gardens, London
Painting of Carlton Gardens, London (View image in full size)
