Little Newport Street, London
Little Newport Street is a compact yet vibrant street located in the heart of the City of Westminster, forming part of London’s energetic West End. Despite its short length, it serves as an important pedestrian link between Charing Cross Road to the east and a trio of busy streets to the west—Lisle Street, Newport Place, and Leicester Court—just steps from the lively Chinatown district.
Street Overview
Little Newport Street is known more for its strategic location and urban texture than for its length. Nestled between Soho and Chinatown, the street is largely pedestrian-friendly, providing an essential cut-through and gathering point for locals, tourists, and food-lovers alike. The road itself is paved with stone and lined with characterful architecture, small businesses, restaurants, and flats above shops.
To the east, it links directly to Lisle Street, a major east-west artery of Chinatown; Newport Place, a square-like pedestrian area at the heart of Chinatown; and Leicester Court, which provides access to Leicester Square. To the west, the street exits onto Charing Cross Road, a well-known route famous for theatres and bookshops.
Historical Background
Little Newport Street owes its name to Newport House, a 17th-century aristocratic mansion that once stood nearby. The mansion belonged to the Earl of Newport, from whom both Newport Street and Little Newport Street derive their names. The “Little” was added to distinguish it from the longer and more prominent Newport Street further south. The current alignment of the street emerged in the early 18th century, during a time when the West End was being rapidly urbanised to accommodate the growing population of London.
Character and Urban Environment
The street is now best known for its connection to Chinatown, which blossomed in the area from the 1970s onward. Numerous Chinese restaurants and shops line the nearby streets, and although Little Newport Street itself is quieter, it acts as a key pedestrian artery. The low-rise buildings here, typically three to four storeys, are often used for mixed purposes—shops or eateries at ground level and residential flats or offices above.
Nearby Sights and Attractions
Within a few minutes' walk from Little Newport Street are some of London’s most famous attractions, including:
- Leicester Square and its cinemas and entertainment venues
- Soho’s renowned bars, clubs, and dining options
- The National Gallery and Trafalgar Square
- The Chinatown Gate on Wardour Street
This makes the street a great starting point for exploring central London on foot.
Property and Real Estate
As of June 2025, residential property on and around Little Newport Street commands high prices, reflecting its central location. Flats in this area are generally compact, with one-bedroom units ranging between 450–600 sq ft (42–56 sq metres). A one-bedroom flat here typically sells for between £700,000 and £950,000, while rents range from £2,500 to £3,500 per month depending on amenities and view.
These prices are notably above the London average, due to the street’s proximity to key landmarks, transport links, and its location within the bustling West End.
Transport Connections
Little Newport Street enjoys excellent public transport access. The nearest London Underground stations are:
- Piccadilly Circus Station (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) – about 4 minutes’ walk
- Covent Garden Station (Piccadilly line) – about 7 minutes’ walk
- Leicester Square Station (Northern and Piccadilly lines) – about 3 minutes’ walk
Numerous bus routes serve nearby Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue, including the 14, 24, 29, and 176 buses, offering connectivity across central and north London.
Fun Fact
At the corner of Little Newport Street and Newport Place stands a colourful, tiled Chinese-style pagoda lamp post, a subtle nod to the area’s cultural transformation into Chinatown. Though often missed by hurried passersby, it is one of the unique urban design features that marks the area's identity.
Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, West End, central London
- Connects: Charing Cross Road (west) to Lisle Street, Newport Place, and Leicester Court (east)
- Notable for: Proximity to Chinatown, walkability, West End theatres
- Nearest Tube Stations: Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden
- Bus Routes Nearby: 14, 24, 29, 176
- Average Flat Size: 450–600 sq ft (42–56 sq metres)
- Property Prices (2025): £700,000–£950,000 for 1-bedroom flats
- Monthly Rent: £2,500–£3,500
- Street History: Named after 17th-century Newport House; developed in the 18th century
- Fun Feature: Chinese-style pagoda lamp post at Newport Place junction
References
- Survey of London: Volumes 33 and 34, St Anne Soho – British History Online
- Rightmove – Property for Sale on Little Newport Street
- Transport for London – Journey Planner
Map of Little Newport Street, London
Painting of Little Newport Street, London