Goodge Street, London
Goodge Street lies in Fitzrovia, within the London Borough of Camden, in the heart of Central London. The street runs east–west, beginning at Mortimer Street in the west and ending at Tottenham Court Road in the east. Just north of Oxford Street, it sits at the intersection of historic charm and urban dynamism, surrounded by cultural landmarks, dining spots, and offices.
Length and Layout
Goodge Street is a short but busy route, measuring around 300 metres (980 feet) in length. It functions as both a residential and commercial passage, with low-rise Georgian buildings and shops lining its length. Though compact, it plays a key role in the pedestrian and vehicle flow across Fitzrovia, intersecting with streets like Charlotte Street and Whitfield Street.
History of Goodge Street
When Was It Built?
Goodge Street was laid out in the late 18th century as part of the planned development of Fitzrovia, an area that evolved from pastureland to a fashionable residential quarter. During the Victorian period, the area saw denser development and became a hub for artisans, writers, and small workshops.
Origin of the Name
The street is named after John Goodge, a significant landowner in this part of London during the 1700s. He oversaw the development of several plots in the area, which led to his name being memorialised in this central street.
The name “Goodge” is pronounced like “Gooj”, rhyming with “stooge”. The IPA pronunciation is /ɡuːdʒ/ 
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Street Character and Atmosphere
Today, Goodge Street is a vibrant mix of historic architecture, independent eateries, and small offices. While quieter than nearby Soho or Covent Garden, it has a distinct creative and academic feel, owing to its proximity to University College London (UCL) and nearby publishing and media firms. You'll find Georgian brick façades alongside 20th-century buildings, reflecting the area's long evolution.
Sights and Landmarks Nearby
Although the street itself is compact, Goodge Street is surrounded by interesting spots, many of which are favourites with both locals and tourists.
- Goodge Street Underground Station – Located at the eastern end, it retains its original Edwardian design and is one of the few remaining deep-level stations with lift-only access.
- Pollock’s Toy Museum – A charming museum just off the street, featuring antique toys and theatrical prints in a historic townhouse.
- Charlotte Street – This nearby road is a foodie’s paradise, home to dozens of restaurants and wine bars, from Italian trattorias to Michelin-recommended spots.
- Fitzroy Tavern – Located on nearby Charlotte Street, this pub was a favourite haunt of literary figures including George Orwell and Dylan Thomas.
- BT Tower – Visible from the street, this iconic London landmark rises above Fitzrovia and has dominated the skyline since the 1960s.
Property Prices and Real Estate (2025)
Being located in Fitzrovia within the Borough of Camden, Goodge Street commands premium property prices relative to much of London. Its central location and historic charm contribute to continued demand, especially for well-maintained period flats and modern apartments.
- 1-bedroom flats: £775,000–£950,000 (approx. 500–650 sq ft / 46–60 sq m)
- 2-bedroom flats: £1.1 million–£1.4 million (approx. 750–900 sq ft / 70–84 sq m)
As of May 2025, these prices are significantly above the London average (roughly £540,000), reflecting the street’s desirability, transport links, and access to the West End.
London Underground Connections
Goodge Street Station sits right at the eastern end of the street and is served by the:
- Northern line (Charing Cross branch)
Other nearby stations include:
- Tottenham Court Road – Northern, Central, and Elizabeth lines
- Warren Street – Northern and Victoria lines
- Oxford Circus – Just a 10-minute walk away, with Victoria, Bakerloo, and Central lines
Bus Services
While there are no bus stops directly on Goodge Street, the nearby Tottenham Court Road and Gower Street host several high-frequency routes including:
- Routes 14, 24, 29, 73, 134, 390
These provide easy access to key destinations such as Camden Town, Euston, Trafalgar Square, Oxford Circus, and King's Cross.
Fun Fact: Wartime Secrets Beneath the Street
Beneath Goodge Street lies one of London's lesser-known deep-level air-raid shelters, constructed during the Second World War. During the D-Day preparations, the shelter was reportedly used by General Dwight D. Eisenhower and other Allied staff. While not open to the public today, it remains an important part of London’s wartime history and adds a hidden layer of intrigue to the street.
Quick Facts
- Location: Fitzrovia, London Borough of Camden
- Length: Approx. 300 metres (980 feet)
- Connected Streets: Mortimer Street (west), Tottenham Court Road (east)
- Pronunciation: ‘Gooj’ (/ɡuːdʒ/)
- Named After: John Goodge, 18th-century landowner
- Street Character: Georgian buildings, cafés, boutique offices
- Nearby Landmarks: Pollock’s Toy Museum, BT Tower, Fitzroy Tavern
- Property Prices (2025): £775,000–£1.4m for flats (46–84 sq m)
- Nearest Tube: Goodge Street (Northern line)
- Other Nearby Stations: Tottenham Court Road, Warren Street
- Nearby Bus Routes: 14, 24, 29, 73, 134, 390
- Fun Fact: WWII deep-level shelter once used by Eisenhower located beneath the street
Map of Goodge Street, London
Painting of Goodge Street, London (View image in full size)