Duke of York Street, London
Duke of York Street is a short but historic street nestled in the elegant district of St James’s in the City of Westminster, London. Running in a northeast-southwest direction, it connects the refined thoroughfare of Jermyn Street at its southern end to the prestigious St James's Square at its northern end. Cutting right through the midpoint is a pair of narrow alleys, Ormond Yard to the west and Apple Tree Yard to the east. Though only approximately 110 metres (about 360 feet) in length, this street packs a remarkable amount of heritage and prestige into its compact footprint.
Orientation and Traffic
Duke of York Street operates as a one-way street for vehicular traffic, running northbound only from Jermyn Street to St James's Square. The road is relatively narrow, flanked by high-end offices and discreet entrances to exclusive clubs and buildings, typical of the St James's area.
Origin and Name
The street derives its name from the title Duke of York, traditionally held by the second son of the reigning British monarch. This naming convention reflects the aristocratic heritage of the district, which has long been associated with royal patronage and the upper echelons of British society. The name is pronounced as: Duke of York /djuːk əv jɔːk/. 
Historical maps and records indicate that Duke of York Street was laid out during the Georgian period, likely in the late 17th or early 18th century, when the surrounding St James’s area was being developed as a fashionable residential quarter close to the royal palaces.
Character of the Street
Duke of York Street exudes an atmosphere of elegant restraint. Unlike some of the more bustling parts of Westminster, it maintains a relatively quiet and stately feel. The architecture along the street is a blend of Georgian and early 20th-century styles, with several buildings designated as listed structures. The street is lined with office spaces, members’ clubs, and discreet entrances to fine residences and boutiques.
Nearby Sights and Points of Interest
Though the street itself is modest in length, it is steps away from some of London's most historically and culturally rich sites. Notable nearby attractions include:
- St James's Square – a beautifully landscaped square that is home to numerous private clubs, historical buildings, and the London Library.
- Jermyn Street – famous for its traditional British men's outfitters and fine shirtmakers.
- The Royal Academy of Arts – a few minutes' walk away on Piccadilly, offering rotating exhibitions and a glimpse into British artistic heritage.
- Burlington Arcade and Fortnum & Mason – nearby upscale shopping landmarks.
Property and Real Estate
Real estate along Duke of York Street is among the most expensive in London. Properties here are primarily commercial offices and converted luxury apartments, reflecting the elite nature of St James’s. As of early 2025, small office suites (around 1,200 sq ft / 111.5 sq m) can command upwards of £3 million, while residential apartments in the vicinity may sell for over £4,000 per sq ft (£43,000 per sq m), placing them well above the London average1.
Rental values are similarly premium, driven by proximity to central government offices, clubland, and high-end businesses.
Transport Links
Nearest London Underground Stations
- Piccadilly Circus Station (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) – approx. 5-minute walk to the north.
- Green Park Station (Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly lines) – approx. 7-minute walk to the west.
- Charing Cross Station (Northern and Bakerloo lines, plus mainline trains) – within 10 minutes’ walking distance to the east.
Nearby Bus Stops
The nearest bus stops are located along Piccadilly, Pall Mall, and Haymarket, all within a few minutes’ walk. These stops are served by several routes including:
- Routes 9, 14, 19, 38 – connecting to Kensington, Holborn, and North London.
- Route 6 – towards Aldwych and Kilburn.
Fun Fact
Despite its modest size, Duke of York Street has been featured in various literary works and historical accounts. It once hosted the offices of elite publishers and political journals during the 19th century. Its proximity to the gentlemen’s clubs of Pall Mall made it a discreet address for editors and writers wishing to mingle with political power brokers.
Quick Facts
- Location: St James's, City of Westminster, London
- Length: Approximately 110 metres (360 feet)
- Direction: One-way, northbound from Jermyn Street to St James's Square
- Historical Origin: Developed during the Georgian period
- Name Origin: Named after the title Duke of York; pronounced /djuːk əv jɔːk/
- Street Character: Elegant, quiet, with Georgian and early 20th-century architecture
- Nearby Sights: Jermyn Street, St James's Square, Royal Academy, Burlington Arcade
- Property Prices (2025): £4,000+ per sq ft (£43,000+ per sq m)
- Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, Charing Cross
- Nearby Bus Routes: 6, 9, 14, 19, 38
- Fun Fact: Once home to influential 19th-century publishers and editors
References
Map of Duke of York Street, London
Streets connected to Duke of York Street
Painting of Duke of York Street, London (View image in full size)
