Charles Street, London
Charles Street is a distinguished and architecturally rich street located in the City of Westminster, forming part of the exclusive Mayfair district in central London. Known for its well-preserved Georgian townhouses and private residences, it runs between Waverton Street in the west and the northeast corner of Berkeley Square in the east. It offers a mix of stately heritage and modern-day affluence.
Layout and Traffic Flow
The street has a relatively short but stately presence. It is configured with a one-way traffic system for the majority of its length, running eastward. However, a specific section between the junctions of Chesterfield Street and Queen Street operates with two-way traffic, offering a rare break in the otherwise standard Mayfair street layout. This makes Charles Street partially more navigable by car compared to nearby residential lanes.
Streets connected to Charles Street
- Berkeley Square
- Chesterfield Hill
- Chesterfield Street
- Fitzmaurice Place
- Hay's Mews
- Queen Street
- Waverton Street
History and Name
Charles Street was laid out in the early 18th century, part of the planned development of Mayfair as a fashionable residential district. It was built during a time when the Grosvenor family was shaping the urban footprint of this part of London. The street likely derives its name from a member of the aristocratic Grosvenor or Berkeley families—both with Charles among their ranks—though no definitive namesake has been confirmed. The naming fits with the era’s tradition of honouring royals and nobility in street nomenclature.
Character and Architecture
Charles Street is known for its quiet elegance. The properties along its length are primarily Georgian townhouses, many of which have been maintained in excellent condition or tastefully converted into diplomatic residences, members’ clubs, and boutique offices. Some buildings feature Grade II-listed status due to their historical and architectural significance.
The street is particularly admired for its:
- Decorative wrought-iron balconies
- Sash windows with original glazing
- Red-brick and Portland stone façades
Nearby Sights and Attractions
Charles Street is located just west of Berkeley Square, one of the most famous squares in central London, known for its plane trees and luxurious surroundings. A short walk brings visitors to Green Park Station and the adjacent Green Park itself. Other nearby attractions include:
- The Royal Academy of Arts
- Burlington Arcade
- Shepherd Market – a charming enclave of pubs, boutiques, and eateries
Public Transport Connections
The nearest London Underground stations to Charles Street are:
- Green Park Station – served by the Jubilee Line, Piccadilly Line, and Victoria Line
- Bond Street Station – served by the Jubilee Line and Central Line
- Oxford Circus Station – served by the Bakerloo Line, Victoria Line, and Central Line
The closest bus stops are located along Piccadilly and Berkeley Square, providing connections to Oxford Street, Victoria, and the West End. Popular London bus routes serving the area include routes 8, 14, 19, 22, and 38.
Real Estate and Living
Properties along Charles Street reflect some of the highest-end residential real estate values in London. As of Q2 2025, a 4,000 sq ft (372 sq m) Georgian townhouse may command asking prices of £15 million to £20 million depending on the level of refurbishment. Flats within subdivided properties on the street typically range from £2 million to £6 million for units between 1,000 and 2,000 sq ft (93–186 sq m). These values place Charles Street at the very top of Westminster's already elite property market.
A Fun Fact
Charles Street was once home to Harry Gordon Selfridge, the American founder of Selfridges, during the peak of his fame in the early 20th century. The house he occupied has been preserved and occasionally features on architectural walking tours of the Mayfair area.
Nearby Roads and Connections
Charles Street is bounded by several notable streets:
- Waverton Street – at the western end, a quieter, lesser-known lane
- Chesterfield Street – connects to the northern side and is also lined with heritage buildings
- Queen Street – marks the end of the two-way traffic zone
- Berkeley Square – the eastern terminus of the street, a famous London landmark
Quick Facts
- Location: Mayfair, City of Westminster, Central London
- Length: Connects Waverton Street to Berkeley Square
- Traffic Flow: One-way eastbound except between Chesterfield Street and Queen Street (two-way)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Green Park, Bond Street, Oxford Circus
- Nearby Lines: Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria, Bakerloo, Central
- Nearby Bus Routes: 8, 14, 19, 22, 38
- Architecture: Georgian townhouses, many with Grade II-listed status
- Nearby Attractions: Berkeley Square, Green Park, Shepherd Market
- Average Property Prices (2025): £15M–£20M for townhouses (4,000 sq ft); £2M–£6M for flats (1,000–2,000 sq ft)
- Notable Former Resident: Harry Gordon Selfridge
Map of Charles Street, London
Painting of Charles Street, London