Great Windmill Street, London
Great Windmill Street is a short but vibrant one-way road in the City of Westminster, situated in the heart of London’s West End. Running from Coventry Street to Shaftesbury Avenue in the south, and from Shaftesbury Avenue to Brewer Street in the north, the street is intersected near its midpoint by Archer Street and Ham Yard. Despite its modest length, it boasts a rich history, lively surroundings, and a central location that makes it a unique destination for locals and visitors alike.
Overview and Character
Great Windmill Street is urban in nature, lined with a mix of restaurants, bars, offices, and small-scale residences. It has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel and remains a popular thoroughfare for pedestrians traversing Soho and Piccadilly. As a one-way street, it carries northbound traffic from Shaftesbury Avenue to Brewer Street, linking two lively arteries of the West End. The immediate area is known for its energetic vibe, thanks to the nearby theatres, music venues, and clubs that draw tourists and Londoners day and night.
The architecture along the street is mixed, featuring late Victorian facades, post-war structures, and contemporary refurbishments. While much of the street is commercial, upper floors are often used as private flats or boutique offices, contributing to a bustling and layered urban environment.
Historical Background
Great Windmill Street was laid out in the 17th century and is named after a literal windmill that once stood nearby on what was then open farmland. The mill itself gave way to residential development as London expanded westward during the late 1600s. By the 18th century, the street was fully urbanised and developed a reputation as a place of entertainment and nightlife.
One of the street’s most intriguing historical associations is with Dr. William Hunter, who established an anatomy school on Great Windmill Street in 1767. The building became an important centre for medical education and would later be absorbed into King’s College London.
Famous Neighbours and Local Attractions
Within and around Great Windmill Street are several cultural and entertainment landmarks:
- Ham Yard Hotel – A luxurious and design-forward boutique hotel located at the junction with Ham Yard, known for its stylish interiors, rooftop terrace, and in-house theatre.
- The Windmill Soho – A renowned cabaret venue that historically operated as a theatre with continuous performances, even during the Blitz.
- Soho Theatre and Piccadilly Theatre – Both within a few minutes’ walk and hosting an array of plays, comedies, and musicals.
- Piccadilly Circus – A famous junction and tourist magnet just to the west, known for its neon signs and statue of Eros.
The street is also just steps away from vibrant streets like Wardour Street, Rupert Street, and Dean Street, each offering an array of dining, nightlife, and shopping options.
Transport Connections
London Underground
Great Windmill Street is well connected to the London Underground network. The nearest station is Piccadilly Circus Station, just a three-minute walk to the west. This station is served by both the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines, providing direct links to Charing Cross Station and Leicester Square Station.
Bus Stops
Nearby bus stops can be found on Shaftesbury Avenue and Regent Street. Routes serving the area include the 14, 19, 38, and 453, providing convenient access to destinations such as Hyde Park, King's Cross, and Clapham Junction.
Real Estate on Great Windmill Street
Residential property is limited but in high demand due to the street’s central location. As of mid-2025, studio and one-bedroom flats on or near Great Windmill Street typically range from 350–650 sq ft (33–60 sq metres). Sale prices can range between £750,000 to £1.5 million depending on finish, view, and floor level, while rental prices fall in the range of £2,500 to £4,500 per month.
This places Great Windmill Street well above average London prices, which hover around £530,000 for a one-bedroom flat and £2,000/month for equivalent rent. However, the premium is justified by the walkability, historic charm, and abundance of local amenities in the West End.
Fun Fact
During World War II, The Windmill Theatre on Great Windmill Street famously adopted the motto “We Never Closed,” and was one of the few London venues that remained open throughout the Blitz, even as bombs fell on the surrounding streets. It became a cultural symbol of British resilience and entertainment defiance.
Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, West End, London
- Direction: One-way from Shaftesbury Avenue (south) to Brewer Street (north)
- Intersecting Streets: Archer Street, Ham Yard
- Historic Origin: 17th century, named after a windmill that once stood nearby
- Famous Sites: The Windmill Theatre, Ham Yard Hotel
- Transport: Nearest Tube – Piccadilly Circus Station (Bakerloo, Piccadilly lines)
- Nearby Buses: Routes 14, 19, 38, 453
- Real Estate (2025): Flats sell from £750,000 to £1.5M; rent from £2,500–£4,500/month
- Average Flat Size: 350–650 sq ft (33–60 sq metres)
- Fun Fact: Windmill Theatre stayed open throughout the Blitz with non-stop performances
Map of Great Windmill Street, London
Painting of Great Windmill Street, London