Great College Street, London
How Long Is It?
Great College Street is a relatively short street, measuring approximately 320 feet (about 98 metres) in length.Its brevity belies its importance, as it serves as a key passage connecting two significant streets and lies adjacent to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom.
The History of Great College Street
Great College Street dates back to the early 18th century, developing as part of the westward expansion of Westminster.The area around Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster was already densely built-up by this time, and the creation of Great College Street helped facilitate local access and urban planning improvements.
Over the centuries, the street has remained largely unchanged in layout, preserving its quaint scale and charm even as the surrounding city modernised.
How It Got Its Name
Great College Street is named after Westminster School, originally known as the Royal College of St. Peter in Westminster, which has occupied part of the precincts of Westminster Abbey since the 12th century. The name “Great College Street” first appeared in the early 1700s and was so designated to distinguish it from nearby “College Street” and to signify its proximity to this grand and influential educational institution.Streets That Connect to Great College Street
Great College Street links two notable Westminster roads:- Millbank – which runs south from Parliament Square along the River Thames.
- Tufton Street – a historic road heading northward into the heart of Westminster’s political quarter.
- Great Peter Street
- Dean’s Yard
- Marsham Street
Real Estate Prices on Great College Street
As of April 2025, property prices on Great College Street reflect its prime Westminster location and limited availability of residential properties.Homes on this street typically consist of period terraced houses or converted flats within historic buildings. A three-bedroom property of around 1,500 sq ft (139 sq m) recently sold for approximately £2.85 million.
By comparison, the average price per square foot here is around £1,900, considerably higher than the London-wide average of about £720 per sq ft.
Rental properties, when available, command premium prices due to proximity to Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and top private schools.
The Character of Great College Street
Great College Street is predominantly residential and characterised by a quiet, scholarly charm.The street’s historical buildings, many of which are Grade II listed, provide a dignified and elegant atmosphere. While commercial activity is minimal on the street itself, numerous government buildings, schools, and cultural institutions lie just steps away.
It is a street that offers a tranquil oasis right in the midst of London’s political and historic core.
Nearest Underground Stations
Great College Street is exceptionally well served by public transport. The nearest London Underground stations are:- Westminster Station (served by the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines) – about 6 minutes' walk away.
- St James’s Park Station (served by the District and Circle lines) – about 8 minutes' walk.
- Victoria Station (served by the Victoria, District, and Circle lines, as well as National Rail) – about 15 minutes' walk.
Fun Fact About Great College Street
One intriguing detail about Great College Street is that it was once the address of a building used as an annex for Westminster School, and that certain scenes of internal school life took place in properties here well into the 19th century.The street’s name also sometimes causes confusion with College Street further north, though “Great” in its name has nothing to do with its size and everything to do with the importance of the adjacent “Great School” of Westminster.
Quick Facts About Great College Street
- Location: Westminster, City of Westminster, central London
- Length: Approximately 320 feet (98 metres)
- Connects: Millbank and Tufton Street
- Named After: Westminster School (The Royal College of St. Peter)
- Character: Residential and historic
- Nearby Stations: Westminster (Jubilee, District, Circle), St James’s Park, Victoria
- Average Property Price (April 2025): £2.85 million for a 1,500 sq ft (139 sq m) home
- Fun Fact: The street was historically used by Westminster School as an extension of school facilities
Map of Great College Street, London
Painting of Great College Street, London (View image in full size)