Gerald Road, London
Gerald Road is a quiet and elegant residential street in the heart of Belgravia, within the City of Westminster in central London. It runs in a one-way direction from Elizabeth Street in the east to South Eaton Place in the west. The street forms part of the prestigious SW1 postal district and exemplifies the Georgian and early Victorian architecture that characterises much of Belgravia.
Location and Layout
Gerald Road measures only approximately 105 metres (344 feet) in length. It is a one-way street, with vehicles entering from Elizabeth Street and exiting at South Eaton Place. This traffic flow contributes to the quiet, residential character of the road. There are pavemented footpaths on both sides, and the buildings are almost exclusively domestic in character.
Historical Background
Gerald Road was laid out in the early to mid-19th century, during a period of significant development in Belgravia, spearheaded by the Grosvenor Estate. Belgravia was transformed from marshland into a fashionable and highly sought-after residential area, known for its grand terraces and leafy squares. Gerald Road was likely completed by the 1840s as part of this sweeping urban renewal project.
Origin of the Name
The street takes its name from the Gerald family, a name closely linked to the Anglo-Norman aristocracy, particularly the FitzGeralds. While no single figure is confirmed to have directly inspired the name, it fits with the Grosvenor Estate's practice of using aristocratic and historic names for streets in the area.
The name Gerald is pronounced /ˈdʒɛrəld/ (JEH-ruhl-d 
) according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. This is the standard English pronunciation.
Character and Atmosphere
Gerald Road is a peaceful residential street, lined with three- and four-storey stucco-fronted terraced houses, most of which are Grade II listed. These properties often feature classical details such as sash windows, fanlights, and cast-iron railings. The road has a strong air of exclusivity and tranquillity, making it desirable to those seeking privacy in a central London location.
The architecture is predominantly Georgian, with well-maintained façades and a harmonious streetscape. Despite its central location, Gerald Road enjoys minimal through traffic and a village-like feel.
Notable Buildings and Nearby Sights
While Gerald Road itself is purely residential, it is surrounded by some of Belgravia's finest sights:
- Elizabeth Street: Just around the corner, this charming street is lined with independent boutiques, florists, and cafes. It's popular with both locals and visitors.
- Eccleston Yards: A revitalised courtyard offering restaurants, wellness studios, and creative co-working spaces, just a short walk away.
- Belgrave Square: One of London's grandest garden squares is located a few minutes’ walk to the north.
One notable historic building on Gerald Road was once the site of a Metropolitan Police station at No. 20 Gerald Road, which operated for decades before closing in the early 1990s. The building has since been converted into a luxury residence.
Property Prices
As of May 2025, property prices on Gerald Road reflect the high-end character of Belgravia. A typical three- to four-bedroom terraced house here can range from £4.5 million to £7.5 million, depending on condition and exact size.
Many of these homes span around 2,200–3,200 sq ft (204–297 sq m). Prices per square foot are typically between £1,800 and £2,500, well above the London average, which stands at approximately £740 per square foot as of Q1 20251.
Transport Links
Gerald Road benefits from strong public transport links:
- London Underground: The nearest station is Victoria (Victoria, District, and Circle lines), located about a 5-minute walk southeast. Also nearby is Sloane Square station (District and Circle lines), roughly 10 minutes on foot.
- National Rail: London Victoria Station provides mainline train services to destinations in southern England, including Gatwick Airport.
Bus Services
Bus stops can be found nearby on Elizabeth Street and Buckingham Palace Road. Services include:
- Bus 11: To Liverpool Street via Westminster and the Strand.
- Bus 211: To Hammersmith or Waterloo.
- Bus C1: To Kensington and White City.
Fun Fact
Gerald Road’s former police station was famously featured in a 1990s episode of the British crime drama Prime Suspect starring Helen Mirren. After the station was decommissioned, it was transformed into a private residence and reportedly sold for over £10 million in the early 2000s2.
Quick Facts
- Location: Belgravia, City of Westminster, London SW1
- Length: Approximately 105 metres (344 feet)
- Traffic: One-way east to west (from Elizabeth Street to South Eaton Place)
- History: Developed in the early to mid-19th century as part of the Grosvenor Estate
- Name Origin: Likely derived from the Gerald/FitzGerald family; pronounced /ˈdʒɛrəld/ (JEH-ruhl-d)
- Character: Quiet, residential, elegant Georgian terraced houses
- Nearby Sights: Elizabeth Street, Eccleston Yards, Belgrave Square
- Former Police Station: No. 20 Gerald Road (now a private residence)
- Property Prices: £4.5M–£7.5M (May 2025); ~£1,800–£2,500/sq ft
- Underground Stations: Victoria (5 mins), Sloane Square (10 mins)
- Nearby Bus Routes: 11, 211, C1 on Elizabeth Street and Buckingham Palace Road
- Fun Fact: Former police station featured in Prime Suspect
References
- UK House Price Index, March 2025 Summary
- The Telegraph: From Cop Shop to Luxury Pad – Gerald Road’s Police Station
Map of Gerald Road, London
Painting of Gerald Road, London (View image in full size)
