Half Moon Street, London
Half Moon Street is a charming and elegant street located in the heart of Mayfair, within the City of Westminster, central London. This short yet iconic road runs northbound from Piccadilly to Curzon Street and boasts a rich history, distinctive character, and proximity to some of London's finest landmarks and amenities.
Overview and Location
Half Moon Street is a one-way thoroughfare measuring approximately 290 metres (950 feet) in length. Traffic flows in a single direction, entering from the southern end at Piccadilly and exiting at the northern end at Curzon Street. The street lies within the prestigious West End of London, close to St James's and a short distance from the City.
Surrounding roads include Shepherd Market, White Horse Street, and Charles Street. Half Moon Street offers easy access to Green Park Station, served by the Jubilee Line, Piccadilly Line, and Victoria Line. Bus stops are conveniently located on nearby Piccadilly, providing numerous connections throughout London.
Origin of the Name
The street was laid out in the early 18th century, around the 1730s, during a period of rapid development in the Mayfair district. It is believed to have been named after the Half Moon public house that once stood in the vicinity. The pronunciation of the street name is Half Moon Street /hɑːf muːn striːt/
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Historical Context
Half Moon Street gained popularity in the Georgian and Victorian periods for its discreet but desirable lodgings. Its location, just off Piccadilly and near the aristocratic clubs of Pall Mall, made it a sought-after address for gentlemen and literary figures. Famous residents included James Boswell, the biographer of Samuel Johnson, and fictional characters such as Algernon Moncrieff from Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.
Character and Atmosphere
Today, Half Moon Street retains a refined and quiet atmosphere. It is lined with historic Georgian and Regency-style buildings, many of which have been converted into luxury apartments, boutique hotels, and elegant townhouses. The street has an understated charm, free from the bustle of nearby thoroughfares, making it a hidden gem in the heart of Westminster.
Architectural Highlights
- No. 23 Half Moon Street: A striking example of Regency architecture, once home to James Boswell.
- The Flemings Mayfair Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel occupying a row of converted townhouses.
- Historic façades: Most buildings along the street are Grade II listed and feature ornate cornices, sash windows, and wrought-iron balconies.
Property and Real Estate
Real estate along Half Moon Street is among the most exclusive in central London. As of 2025, one-bedroom flats typically range from £1.5 million to £2.2 million for properties around 800 sq ft (74 sq m), while larger townhouses of 3,000 sq ft (279 sq m) or more can fetch upwards of £8 million, depending on condition and amenities. These prices reflect the street’s prime location, architectural heritage, and proximity to Hyde Park, Green Park, and exclusive dining and shopping venues in Mayfair.
Nearby Sights and Attractions
Within a short walking distance of Half Moon Street are several iconic London attractions:
- Green Park: A tranquil Royal Park just steps away, ideal for relaxation or a stroll.
- Burlington Arcade: A historic covered shopping gallery on Piccadilly.
- Royal Academy of Arts: A leading art institution showcasing British and international exhibitions.
- Shepherd Market: A quaint and lively square with cafés, pubs, and boutique shops.
Nearest London Underground Stations
- Green Park Station (Jubilee, Piccadilly, Victoria Lines) – 5 minutes’ walk
- Piccadilly Circus Station (Piccadilly and Bakerloo Lines) – 10 minutes’ walk
- Bond Street Station (Jubilee and Central Lines) – 12 minutes’ walk
Fun Fact
Half Moon Street appears in several works of fiction. Most notably, it is the home of Algernon Moncrieff in Oscar Wilde’s 1895 play The Importance of Being Earnest. The street’s discreet charm and association with high society also made it a setting for spy thrillers and romantic dramas in 20th-century literature and film.
Quick Facts
- Location: Mayfair, City of Westminster, Central London
- Length: Approximately 290 metres (950 feet)
- Traffic Direction: One-way northbound from Piccadilly to Curzon Street
- Pronunciation: Half Moon Street /hɑːf muːn striːt/
- Historic Origins: Established in the early 18th century
- Name Origin: Named after the former Half Moon tavern
- Nearby Underground Stations: Green Park, Piccadilly Circus, Bond Street
- Nearby Bus Stops: On Piccadilly
- Architecture: Georgian and Regency style buildings, many listed
- Average Property Prices (2025): £1.5M–£2.2M for flats, £8M+ for houses
- Famous Residents: James Boswell; fictional character Algernon Moncrieff
- Nearby Attractions: Green Park, Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington Arcade, Shepherd Market
Map of Half Moon Street, London
Painting of Half Moon Street, London (View image in full size)
