Chesham Street, London
Chesham Street is a short, refined one-way street in the distinguished neighbourhood of Belgravia, located within the City of Westminster, London. It stretches for approximately 145 metres (475 feet) between Eaton Place to the south and Chesham Place to the north. The street is one-way running from south to north, directing traffic uphill from Eaton Place to the intersection at Chesham Place.
History and Origin of the Name
Chesham Street dates back to the mid-19th century, when Belgravia was being laid out and developed by the Grosvenor family, one of the wealthiest landowning families in Britain. The area was planned as an elegant residential district, designed to attract aristocracy, professionals, and wealthy merchants.
The name “Chesham” likely derives from the town of Chesham in Buckinghamshire, reflecting the Grosvenor family's pattern of naming streets in Belgravia after locations in the English countryside. Chesham (the town) was historically linked to the Grosvenor estate through various landholdings and associations.
Pronunciation: Chesham is typically pronounced “CHEE-səm” /ˈtʃɛsəm/ 
in British English.
Character and Streetscape
Chesham Street has a refined and understated character, in keeping with the general feel of Belgravia. The street is flanked by white stucco-fronted terraced houses in classic 19th-century style. Many buildings have been converted into luxury flats, boutique offices, or embassy-related accommodations, though some remain as elegant single-family townhouses.
The overall atmosphere is quiet and residential, with minimal commercial presence, which adds to its exclusivity. Architectural details include porticoed entrances, black wrought-iron railings, and sash windows — a visual homage to Victorian and Regency tastes.
Streets connected to Chesham Street
Property and Real Estate
Chesham Street is considered prime central London real estate. As of May 2025, property prices on Chesham Street typically range from £2.5 million to £6 million for a flat, depending on size and floor level. A three-bedroom apartment of approximately 1,600 sq ft (149 sq m) might sell for around £4 million. Full freehold townhouses with multiple storeys and garden space can exceed £10 million, although they are rarely available.
These figures are significantly above the London average, reflecting the prestige of Belgravia, proximity to landmarks, and architectural charm.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Belgrave Square: A few steps west of Chesham Street, this grand square is home to embassies, statues, and green space.
- Sloane Street: Within walking distance to the east, known for high-end fashion boutiques and shopping.
- Hyde Park: Roughly 10 minutes on foot to the north-west, offering open greenery and the Serpentine lake.
- Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Street: A fine example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, also nearby.
Transport Connections
Nearest Underground Stations
- Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line) – approximately 6 minutes' walk to the north-west.
- Sloane Square (District and Circle lines) – roughly 8 minutes' walk to the south-east.
- Knightsbridge (Piccadilly line) – around 10 minutes on foot to the north.
Bus Services
Nearby bus stops are located along Chesham Place and Eaton Place. Key routes passing through the area include:
- Bus 19: Connecting Battersea Bridge and Finsbury Park, via Sloane Square and Holborn.
- Bus 22: Serving Putney Common to Oxford Circus.
- Bus 11: Linking Fulham Broadway to Liverpool Street Station.
Fun Fact
Despite its small size, Chesham Street is frequently used in period dramas and films set in Victorian or Edwardian London due to its authentic architecture and absence of modern street clutter. The street has also reportedly been home to several international diplomats and celebrities seeking a quiet but central location.
Quick Facts
- Location: Belgravia, City of Westminster, London
- Length: Approximately 145 metres (475 feet)
- Traffic Direction: One-way from Eaton Place (south) to Chesham Place (north)
- Built: Mid-19th century as part of Grosvenor Estate development
- Named after: Chesham, Buckinghamshire
- Pronunciation: “CHEE-səm” /ˈtʃɛsəm/
- Character: Residential, elegant, predominantly white stucco buildings
- Property Prices: £2.5m–£6m for flats; £10m+ for townhouses (May 2025)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Hyde Park Corner, Sloane Square, Knightsbridge
- Bus Routes: 11, 19, 22
- Nearby Sights: Belgrave Square, Sloane Street, Hyde Park
- Fun Fact: Frequently used in period dramas for its classic London look
Map of Chesham Street, London
Painting of Chesham Street, London (View image in full size)