Moreton Place, London
Moreton Place, Pimlico SW1
Introduction
Moreton Place is a short, elegant residential street located in Pimlico, part of the City of Westminster in Central London. Nestled between Charlwood Street and Moreton Street, it sits within the iconic Pimlico Grid, a planned network of handsome streets and garden squares laid out during the 19th century.
Location and Length
Moreton Place runs east–west for approximately 130 metres (about 425 feet), forming a quiet, tree-lined link between Charlwood Street on its western end and Moreton Street to the east. It lies just a few streets south of Lupus Street and a short walk north of St George's Square and the River Thames.
History and Development
Moreton Place was developed as part of the broader expansion of Pimlico during the mid-19th century. The area was largely built up under the direction of the Grosvenor family, who owned much of the land. The development followed a neoclassical and Italianate architectural style that continues to define the area's character today.
The street appears on maps by the 1860s and has retained much of its historic charm, with stucco-fronted buildings, sash windows, and black iron railings. Many of the buildings here are either Grade II-listed or fall within the Pimlico Conservation Area, helping to preserve their original aesthetic.
Origin and Pronunciation of the Name
Moreton Place takes its name from the same root as nearby Moreton Street. The name “Moreton” likely traces to Moreton Hall in Staffordshire, which had connections to the Grosvenor family estate holdings.
It is pronounced as “MOR-t'n” — with a soft “t”, almost like “More-tun” — and in the International Phonetic Alphabet, it is rendered as /ˈmɔːtən/ 
.
Character and Atmosphere
Moreton Place is a quiet and refined residential street with little through traffic. The atmosphere is peaceful, defined by its symmetry and classic architecture. The properties are well maintained, often with traditional black railings, and several have front lightwells and lower ground floors.
The street appeals particularly to professionals, retirees, and diplomatic staff due to its central location and low-key charm. It's not a commercial street, which enhances its appeal as a calm retreat just minutes from the hustle of central London.
Nearby Points of Interest
While Moreton Place itself is residential, several attractions lie within easy walking distance:
- St George’s Square: A spacious garden square to the south, great for a stroll.
- Tate Britain: Just across the river in Millbank, featuring a renowned collection of British art.
- Pimlico Farmers’ Market: Held on Saturdays in nearby Orange Square.
- Lillington Gardens Estate: A nearby post-war housing development known for its award-winning design.
Real Estate and Property Sizes
As of May 2025, property values in Moreton Place remain high compared to most of London, although they are typical for Prime Central London. A two-bedroom flat on the street averages around £1.3 million, while entire houses — if available — can reach upwards of £2.5 million.
Flat sizes typically range between 750–1,200 sq ft (70–110 sq metres), while houses may offer 1,800–2,500 sq ft (170–230 sq metres). Many properties have been converted into flats or maisonettes, and some offer access to shared garden courtyards.
Transport Links
Underground Stations
Moreton Place is within easy walking distance of two London Underground stations:
- Pimlico Station (Victoria line) – approx. 5 minutes’ walk to the southeast
- Victoria Station (Victoria, District, Circle lines + National Rail) – approx. 10–12 minutes’ walk to the north
Bus Stops
The closest bus stops are found along Lupus Street and Belgrave Road. Services here include:
- Bus 24 (Hampstead Heath – Pimlico)
- Bus 360 (Elephant & Castle – Royal Albert Hall)
- Bus C10 (Canada Water – Victoria)
Fun Fact
The street once appeared in a background shot of a 1980s BBC detective drama, chosen for its timeless Georgian architecture and relative quiet during filming. Locals sometimes refer to it as the "forgotten film set" of Pimlico.
Quick Facts
- Location: Pimlico, City of Westminster
- Length: Approx. 130 metres (425 feet)
- Connects: Charlwood Street to Moreton Street
- Built: Mid-19th century
- Name Origin: Linked to Moreton Hall (Staffordshire)
- Pronunciation: "MOR-t'n" /ˈmɔːtən/
- Character: Quiet, residential, elegant Georgian-style architecture
- Nearby Attractions: Tate Britain, St George’s Square, Pimlico Farmers’ Market
- Property Prices (May 2025): Flats ~£1.3m, Houses ~£2.5m
- Flat Sizes: 750–1,200 sq ft (70–110 sq m)
- Nearest Tube: Pimlico (Victoria line), Victoria (Victoria, District, Circle lines)
- Nearby Bus Routes: 24, 360, C10
- Fun Fact: Used as a backdrop in a 1980s BBC detective show
Map of Moreton Place, London
Painting of Moreton Place, London (View image in full size)