Harriet Street, London
Harriet Street is a refined and discreet residential street located in the distinguished Belgravia district of central London. Situated in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, it stretches from Sloane Street in the west to Lowndes Square in the east, offering a tranquil passage just moments from the fashionable amenities of Knightsbridge.
Geography and Layout
The street runs for approximately 170 metres (560 feet) in length and is laid out on an east-west axis. It is a two-way street, though with limited vehicle traffic due to its primarily residential nature. Roughly halfway along its course, Harriet Street is intersected by Harriet Walk—a one-way north-to-south street that enhances the local connectivity within this quiet enclave.
Historical Background
Harriet Street was laid out during the early-to-mid 19th century as part of the broader development of Belgravia, an area established under the direction of Richard Grosvenor, the 2nd Marquess of Westminster. Much of the land was developed by the Grosvenor Estate, and the architecture reflects the classical elegance typical of this period in London's urban expansion.
Name and Pronunciation
The street is believed to be named after Harriet Sloane or a member of the extended Grosvenor family, though direct historical documentation is scarce. The name Harriet is pronounced HA-ree-uht and represented in the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ˈhæriət/. 
The naming convention fits within the pattern of personal names used in this part of Belgravia and Knightsbridge during the Victorian era.
Street Character and Ambience
Harriet Street exudes a serene, understated elegance. It is lined with Georgian and Victorian townhouses, many of which have been carefully maintained or sympathetically modernised. The architecture showcases stucco-fronted façades, wrought-iron railings, and period-style lantern lighting, all contributing to the street's refined charm.
There is no commercial frontage on Harriet Street, which adds to its peaceful, residential feel. The street is particularly attractive to those seeking privacy and seclusion just a short walk from the buzz of Knightsbridge.
Points of Interest Nearby
While Harriet Street itself is largely residential, its proximity to world-famous sights and institutions is a key draw. Notable locations within walking distance include:
- Harrods – The iconic luxury department store is less than 5 minutes away on foot.
- Hyde Park – One of London’s largest and most famous parks lies to the north-west, accessible via Sloane Street or Knightsbridge.
- Lowndes Square – At the eastern end of Harriet Street, this leafy square offers a tranquil public garden for local residents.
- Sloane Street – Known for its designer boutiques and fashionable allure, it borders the street’s western end.
Real Estate and Property Prices
Properties on Harriet Street are among the most exclusive in central London. As of early 2025, the average property price on the street is approximately £3,500 to £4,500 per square foot (£37,675 to £48,440 per sq metre), depending on condition, layout, and whether the property includes outdoor space or a mews extension.
Typical homes here range in size from 1,800 to 3,000 sq ft (167 to 279 sq m), and many are arranged over multiple floors. The area is popular among international buyers, diplomats, and professionals due to its prestigious address and security.
Transport Connections
Nearest London Underground Stations
- Knightsbridge Station – Served by the Piccadilly line, located about a 6-minute walk to the north-west.
- Sloane Square Station – Served by the District and Circle lines, roughly a 10-minute walk to the south.
Nearby Bus Routes
The nearest bus stops are located on Sloane Street and Knightsbridge. Frequent services include:
- Bus 137 – Connecting to Oxford Street and Clapham.
- Bus 19 – Running from Battersea to Finsbury Park.
- Bus 22 – Serving King’s Road and Piccadilly Circus.
Fun Fact
Despite its small size and understated appearance, Harriet Street has occasionally featured in location scouting for films and TV shows due to its picturesque setting and period architecture. Its proximity to both Harrods and Hyde Park makes it a surprising spot for paparazzi encounters with celebrities heading to private residences or high-end events nearby.
Quick Facts
- Location: Belgravia, City of Westminster, London
- Length: Approximately 170 metres (560 feet)
- Direction: Runs east-west; intersects with Harriet Walk (north-south)
- Nearby Roads: Sloane Street (west), Lowndes Square (east)
- Pronunciation: /ˈhæriət/ ("HA-ree-uht")
- History: Developed in the early-to-mid 19th century by the Grosvenor Estate
- Character: Quiet, residential, with Georgian and Victorian homes
- Nearest Tube: Knightsbridge (Piccadilly), Sloane Square (District & Circle)
- Nearby Sights: Harrods, Hyde Park, Lowndes Square, Sloane Street
- Average Property Price (2025): £3,500–£4,500 per sq ft (£37,675–£48,440/sq m)
- Typical Property Size: 1,800–3,000 sq ft (167–279 sq m)
- Bus Routes: 19, 22, 137 (via Sloane Street & Knightsbridge)
- Fun Fact: Sometimes used in film shoots and celebrity photo-ops
Map of Harriet Street, London
Painting of Harriet Street, London (View image in full size)