Caxton Street, London
Caxton Street, Westminster - A Historic Link Between Broadway and Buckingham Gate
Streets that connect to Caxton Street
Caxton Street is located in the City of Westminster, in central London. It runs in a west-east direction, connecting Broadway to Buckingham Gate, just a stone's throw from St James's Park and Victoria.This street lies in a prime location for visitors exploring Westminster, as it's surrounded by key government buildings, hotels, and notable institutions.
Length and Layout
Caxton Street is a relatively short street, measuring approximately 180 metres (about 590 feet) in length. Despite its modest size, it is packed with architectural interest and historical significance.Historical Background
Caxton Street dates back to the mid-19th century, emerging during a period of major urban development in Westminster. It was laid out at a time when the area was being reshaped by Victorian planners aiming to modernise the city's street layout and improve access across the borough.The buildings that line the street today reflect a blend of styles from different periods, most notably the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
How Caxton Street Got Its Name
The street is named after William Caxton (c. 1422-1491), the first English printer. Caxton introduced the printing press to England in 1476, an innovation that revolutionised literature and learning across the country.The street was so named in the late 19th century to honour Caxton's contribution to English culture and publishing, symbolising progress, communication, and education - ideals valued in Victorian society.
Connecting Roads
Caxton Street connects two notable roads in Westminster:- Broadway - on its eastern end, a busy thoroughfare near Victoria Street
- Buckingham Gate - on its western end, which leads toward the royal precincts of Buckingham Palace
Notable Buildings and Attractions
Caxton Street is lined with elegant brick buildings, many of which have been converted into offices, residences, and hospitality venues. Key sites include:- St Ermin's Hotel - a grand Edwardian hotel with links to World War II espionage activities. MI6 agents reportedly met here during the early days of the war.
- Caxton Hall - formerly a town hall and now converted into luxury apartments. It was once used for civil marriages and has hosted weddings for celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Diana Dors.
Character of the Street
Today, Caxton Street is primarily mixed-use, with a balance of commercial and residential properties. The presence of St Ermin's Hotel gives the street a distinguished character, and its quiet charm stands in contrast to the busier roads nearby.
Nearest London Underground Stations
The nearest stations are:- St James's Park (served by the District and Circle lines) - approximately 2 minutes' walk
- Victoria Station (served by the Victoria, District, and Circle lines) - approximately 7 minutes' walk
Fun Fact
During World War II, Caxton Street and the adjoining St Ermin's Hotel played a secretive role as a rendezvous point for British intelligence officers and members of the Special Operations Executive (SOE). This lends the street a fascinating connection to London's wartime spy history.Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, Central London
- Connects: Broadway and Buckingham Gate
- Length: Approximately 180 metres
- Named After: William Caxton, England's first printer
- Nearby Stations: St James's Park (District/Circle), Victoria (Victoria/District/Circle)
- Major Sites: St Ermin's Hotel, Caxton Hall
- Street Type: Mixed-use (residential, hotel, office)
- Fun Fact: Used by British intelligence during WWII
Map of Caxton Street, London
Painting of Caxton Street, London (View image in full size)