Chesham Place, London
Chesham Place is a refined and architecturally distinguished street in the heart of Belgravia, London. Known for its white stucco-fronted mansions, embassies, and historical townhouses, the street has a unique, three-branch layout that links a number of Belgravia’s most notable streets.
Street Layout and Traffic
The total length of Chesham Place across its three branches is approximately 457 metres (1,499 feet). The configuration forms a loosely triangular shape, offering multiple entry and exit points. Traffic flow along Chesham Place varies by segment, with some sections designated as one-way to accommodate residential access and reduce congestion, while other parts support two-way traffic. It is generally calm, with limited through-traffic, making it a tranquil area within central London.
History and Naming
Chesham Place was laid out during the early 19th century as part of the grand vision of Thomas Cubitt, the master builder of Belgravia. This area was developed under the auspices of the Grosvenor Estate, transforming marshy land into one of London’s most exclusive residential quarters.
The street is named after Chesham, a town in Buckinghamshire, to reflect the Grosvenor family's ancestral ties—specifically, the family title of Earl Grosvenor of Chesham. The name Chesham is commonly pronounced as “Chess-um”, with the International Phonetic Alphabet notation being /ˈtʃɛsəm/. 
Streets connected to Chesham Place
- Belgrave Mews West
- Belgrave Place
- Belgrave Square
- Chesham Street
- Loundes Place
- Lowndes Street
- Lyall Street
- Pont Street
Character and Atmosphere
Chesham Place has a highly refined, diplomatic character. The street is lined with white stucco terraces and mid-19th-century buildings that are now used as embassies, private homes, and elegant flats. It has a distinct air of exclusivity, with manicured trees, black wrought-iron railings, and stone steps gracing the entrances to many properties.
Unlike busier commercial streets, Chesham Place remains mostly residential, providing a quiet environment appreciated by diplomats, wealthy homeowners, and discreet international residents.
Nearby Sights and Landmarks
Chesham Place is just steps away from Belgrave Square, a key landmark of Belgravia with its grand central garden and impressive foreign embassies. Other nearby attractions include:
- Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Street – a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture.
- Cadogan Hall – a well-regarded venue for classical music performances.
- Elizabeth Street – a charming shopping street known for boutiques and floral displays.
- Hyde Park – a short walk away to the north-west, ideal for leisure and exercise.
Property and Real Estate
Chesham Place commands some of the highest property prices in London. As of early 2025, residential homes here typically range from £4 million to £25 million, depending on size and finish. A 3-bedroom flat of approximately 2,000 sq ft (186 sq m) may sell for around £7–10 million, while larger townhouses measuring 4,000–6,000 sq ft (372–557 sq m) fetch significantly more.
This is substantially higher than the London average, making Chesham Place one of the capital’s most prestigious addresses. Many homes here have been refurbished into luxury apartments, often retaining the original stucco façades and period features.
Transport Links
London Underground
The closest Tube station to Chesham Place is Knightsbridge (Piccadilly line), approximately 7 minutes' walk. Also nearby is Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line) and Sloane Square (District and Circle lines).
Bus Services
Several Transport for London bus stops are conveniently located near Chesham Place:
- Pont Street / Cadogan Place – serves routes 19, 22, and 137, with connections to the West End and Clapham.
- Knightsbridge Station – served by routes 9, 14, 52, 74, and more.
Fun Fact
One of the most intriguing aspects of Chesham Place is its diplomatic role. Over the decades, it has hosted multiple embassies and consular offices—including those of nations like Slovakia, Serbia, and Sweden at various times. This concentration of foreign presence gives the street an air of global importance while remaining quietly understated.
In addition, Chesham Place appeared as a backdrop in several period dramas and films thanks to its preserved 19th-century charm and visual grandeur.
Quick Facts
- Location: Belgravia, City of Westminster
- Total Length: Approx. 457 metres (1,499 feet)
- Connects To: Lowndes Street, Pont Street, Lowndes Place, Belgrave Square, Belgrave Place, Chesham Street, Lyall Street
- Traffic: Mix of one-way and two-way sections
- Named After: Chesham, Buckinghamshire
- Pronunciation: “Chess-um” (/ˈtʃɛsəm/)
- Built: Early 19th century, part of Cubitt’s Belgravia plan
- Character: Elegant, residential, diplomatic
- Nearby Sights: Belgrave Square, Holy Trinity Church, Elizabeth Street
- Property Prices (2025): £4m–£25m; ~£7m for 2,000 sq ft flat
- Nearest Tube: Knightsbridge (Piccadilly), Sloane Square (District/Circle)
- Nearby Buses: 9, 14, 19, 22, 52, 74, 137
- Fun Fact: Hosts several embassies; used in period films
Map of Chesham Place, London
Painting of Chesham Place, London (View image in full size)