John Islip Street, London
It runs roughly north to south, linking Dean Ryle Street at its northern end with Vauxhall Bridge Road at its southern end. It lies just to the west of Millbank and close to the River Thames, offering convenient access to key central London landmarks.
How Long is It?
John Islip Street is approximately 300 metres (984 feet) in length.Despite its modest size, the street plays an important role in local connectivity, bridging the civic and cultural hubs of central Westminster with the wider road network via Vauxhall Bridge Road.
History of John Islip Street
John Islip Street was laid out during the urban developments of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coinciding with the modernisation of the Millbank area.This area had previously been marshland, then used for prisons and industrial functions before transitioning into a zone for residential and cultural institutions. Its development reflected the broader Victorian-era transformations of London into a modern metropolis.
Origin of the Name
The street is named after John Islip (d. 1532), a notable Abbot of Westminster who played a key role in the early Tudor period.Abbot Islip oversaw considerable improvements to Westminster Abbey, including the construction of new chapels and the strengthening of its political and religious role. The naming of the street commemorates his contributions to the ecclesiastical and civic life of Westminster.
It is believed the street received its name during the area’s redevelopment in the early 20th century, following the relocation of the old Millbank Prison and the improvement of local infrastructure.
Connecting Roads
In addition to Dean Bradley Street and Vauxhall Bridge Road, John Islip Street connects with:- Atterbury Street
- Bulinga Street
- Marsham Street
- Page Street
- Ponsonby Place
- Ponsonby Terrace
Real Estate on John Islip Street
John Islip Street is a desirable address within central London. As of May 2025, average residential property prices on the street are around £1,300 per square foot (£13,993 per sq metre), slightly below the Westminster average but still significantly higher than the Greater London average.Properties range in size and type, including:
- One-bedroom flats (~550 sq ft / 51 sq m): approx. £715,000–£775,000
- Two-bedroom flats (~900 sq ft / 84 sq m): approx. £1.1M–£1.3M
- Luxury penthouses (1,200–1,500 sq ft / 111–139 sq m): £1.6M–£2.2M+
Character of the Street
John Islip Street has a primarily residential character, but with a notable presence of cultural and civic institutions nearby.Its peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by nearby green spaces and low traffic. Modern apartment buildings are complemented by offices, galleries, and small retail units, giving the area a mixed but quiet feel — ideal for professionals and retirees alike.
Nearest Underground Stations
John Islip Street is conveniently located near several London Underground stations:- Pimlico (Victoria Line) – about a 7-minute walk to the south
- St James’s Park (District & Circle Lines) – approximately a 12-minute walk to the north
- Westminster (Jubilee, District & Circle Lines) – about a 15-minute walk along Millbank
Fun Fact
Just off John Islip Street is the headquarters of the Tate Britain museum on Millbank — a national gallery of British art and the oldest of the Tate network.Although its main entrance is on Millbank, visitors approaching from John Islip Street can enjoy a quieter route to the museum. The nearby Millbank Millennium Pier also offers scenic boat rides along the Thames, with direct service to the Tate Modern.
Quick Facts About John Islip Street
- Location: Westminster, City of Westminster, London
- Connects: Dean Bradley Street to Vauxhall Bridge Road
- Length: Approx. 300 metres (984 feet)
- Named After: Abbot John Islip of Westminster (d. 1532)
- Character: Primarily residential with cultural nearby
- Property Prices (May 2025): Avg. £1,300/sq ft (£13,993/sq m)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Pimlico, St James’s Park, Westminster
- Fun Fact: Close to Tate Britain and the River Thames
Map of John Islip Street, London
Painting of John Islip Street, London (View image in full size)