Man In Moon Passage, London
Man In Moon Passage is a narrow, unassuming pedestrian passageway nestled in the heart of London's West End, connecting Vine Street to the internationally renowned Regent Street. Though only a few metres long, this discreet alleyway adds to the rich tapestry of hidden routes and cut-throughs that characterise central London’s historic street network.
Overview and Layout
The passage runs in an east-west direction, beginning at Vine Street on the east and terminating at Regent Street on the west. It is exclusively for pedestrian use, with no vehicular traffic permitted. The entire passage measures approximately 30 metres (about 98 feet) in length and is barely wide enough to allow two people to pass comfortably. The paving is relatively even and maintained by Westminster City Council, making it easy to walk through at all hours.
History of the Passage
Man In Moon Passage dates back to at least the early 18th century, when many such alleys and mews developed alongside the expansion of Mayfair and St James’s. Originally, it likely served a utilitarian purpose—providing backdoor access for service staff, deliveries, and movement between major streets without disrupting the grand thoroughfares. Despite modern development around it, the passage has retained its old-world charm.
Origin of the Name
The name “Man In Moon Passage” is believed to derive from a former public house that once stood nearby, likely called “The Man in the Moon.” Pubs often lent their names to adjacent streets or alleys, and in this case, the name stuck long after the original establishment disappeared.
In modern spelling, the name is written as “Man In Moon Passage” and pronounced man in moon /ˈmæn ɪn muːn/ 
in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). While occasionally misspelled with “the” or hyphens, official signage omits them entirely.
Character and Atmosphere
The passage has a quaint, almost secretive feel. Its high walls, formed by the rear facades of surrounding buildings, create a slightly enclosed atmosphere, making it an ideal short cut but also a curiosity for tourists. It is well-lit, particularly in the evening, and though not wide enough for shops, it contributes to the labyrinthine charm of this part of Westminster. The passage is free of clutter and tends to remain quiet throughout the day.
Nearby Attractions
Though Man In Moon Passage itself lacks commercial establishments, it lies within a few moments’ walk of some of London’s most iconic locations:
- Regent Street: A major shopping street known for its elegant Georgian architecture and flagship stores.
- Piccadilly Circus: Just a few blocks away, one of London’s most visited squares, bustling with lights, people, and performance.
- Golden Square: A small historic garden square a short walk to the north, often overlooked by tourists.
- Theatres of Shaftesbury Avenue: Within a 5-minute walk, you’ll find the heart of the West End’s theatre district.
Property and Real Estate
Because of its pedestrian nature and short length, Man In Moon Passage does not have residential properties facing directly onto it. However, surrounding buildings, particularly those along Vine Street and Regent Street, include a mix of high-end flats and offices.
As of Q2 2025, properties in the area are commanding high prices, typical for this part of Westminster. Flats nearby range from £1.2 million to £4 million, depending on size and view, with an average cost of about £2,500 per sq ft (£26,900 per sq m). Most units are compact, with luxury one-bedroom flats measuring around 600 sq ft (56 sq m) and larger two-bedroom flats reaching up to 1,200 sq ft (111 sq m).
Transport Links
Nearest London Underground Stations
- Piccadilly Circus Station – About a 3-minute walk to the south; served by the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines.
- Oxford Circus Station – About 6 minutes to the north; served by the Victoria, Bakerloo, and Central lines.
- Green Park Station – Within 10 minutes walking distance, offering the Jubilee, Victoria, and Piccadilly lines.
Bus Connections
Several bus stops can be found along Regent Street and Piccadilly, with regular routes connecting to key destinations across the capital. Notable stops include:
- Regent Street / Hamleys Toy Store (northbound services toward Oxford Circus and beyond)
- Piccadilly Circus (southbound routes to Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and Victoria)
Fun Fact
Although little known to the general public, Man In Moon Passage is often used in cinematic productions and fashion shoots due to its urban, atmospheric look. Its discreet charm and central location make it a go-to location scout favourite when a narrow London alley is needed.
Quick Facts
- Name: Man In Moon Passage
- Location: Connects Vine Street to Regent Street, City of Westminster
- Length: Approx. 30 metres (98 feet)
- Traffic: Pedestrian-only, east-west orientation
- Pronunciation: /ˈmæn ɪn muːn/
- Nearest Underground: Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Circus, Green Park
- Bus Stops: Along Regent Street and Piccadilly
- Nearby Sights: Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Golden Square, Shaftesbury Avenue
- Real Estate Prices (2025): ~£2,500 per sq ft (~£26,900/sq m) in surrounding areas
- Notable: Named after a former pub; occasionally used in filming and photo shoots
Map of Man In Moon Passage, London
Painting of Man In Moon Passage, London (View image in full size)
