New Burlington Street, London
New Burlington Street is a short but notable thoroughfare in the heart of the City of Westminster, central London. It forms a graceful connection between Savile Row to the west and Regent Street to the east, placing it in one of the most prestigious fashion and retail districts in the capital.
Overview and Character
New Burlington Street is approximately 170 metres (about 560 feet) in length and runs in an east–west direction, with one-way traffic flowing westbound from Regent Street towards Savile Row. The street is known for its elegant Georgian architecture, high-end commercial properties, and private clubs, making it one of the most refined and exclusive roads in central London.
The street is pedestrian-friendly, thanks to wide pavements, discreet signage, and well-maintained frontages. While vehicular traffic is minimal due to one-way restrictions and loading bays, the area remains bustling with foot traffic, especially with visitors heading to Regent Street’s shops or Savile Row’s famous tailors.
History of New Burlington Street
New Burlington Street was laid out during the early 18th century, as part of the expansion of London’s fashionable West End. It was developed on land owned by the Burlington Estate, managed by the Cavendish family. The street's planning coincided with the broader effort to bring orderly, stylish residential and commercial development to Mayfair and Westminster.
The street was completed in stages during the 1720s and 1730s. It was designed to reflect the refined tastes of the Georgian elite, with houses built in a harmonious terrace style. These buildings have since evolved, with many being adapted into office space, boutiques, and art galleries, yet they retain their original architectural character.
Origin and Pronunciation of the Name
New Burlington Street takes its name from the Burlington family, particularly Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington, a noted patron of architecture in the early 18th century. The name distinguishes it from the older and nearby Burlington Street (now Old Burlington Street).
Pronunciation: BYUR-ling-ton /ˈbɜː.lɪŋ.tən/ 
Architectural Character and Ambience
New Burlington Street is lined with a blend of early Georgian façades and modern adaptations. Most buildings along the street are three to five storeys high and built in brick with elegant stone detailing, portico entrances, and sash windows. Several listed buildings still stand, offering a glimpse into the 18th-century vision for refined urban living.
The ambience is quiet and sophisticated, contrasting the more commercial buzz of nearby Regent Street. The street is often used as a passageway by fashion-conscious visitors, office workers, and those seeking a quieter cut-through to Savile Row.
Nearby Sights and Attractions
Although compact, New Burlington Street lies amidst a concentration of cultural and commercial landmarks:
- Regent Street: One of London’s premier shopping destinations, featuring flagship stores such as Liberty London and Apple.
- Savile Row: World-famous for bespoke tailoring, home to tailors serving royalty and celebrities alike.
- Royal Academy of Arts: Located nearby on Piccadilly, offering major art exhibitions and public programs.
- Burlington Arcade: An elegant shopping arcade dating from 1819, filled with luxury boutiques.
Real Estate and Commercial Value
New Burlington Street commands extremely high property values, owing to its proximity to Regent Street and its prestigious architectural setting. As of mid-2024, commercial leaseholds along the street often exceed £140 per square foot (£1,507 per sq metre), which is significantly above the London average for commercial space.
Retail and office units typically range between 2,000 and 5,000 square feet (185 to 465 sq metres). Residential properties, while rare, would likely exceed £3,000 per square foot (£32,292 per sq metre) given the exclusivity and central location.
Transport Links
Nearest Underground Stations
- Oxford Circus Station (4-minute walk): Served by the Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines.
- Piccadilly Circus Station (8-minute walk): Served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines.
Nearby Bus Stops
- Regent Street / Conduit Street (Stop RF): Served by routes 12, 22, 88, 139, 453, N3, and N109.
- Oxford Circus Station (Stops RG, RH): Served by multiple central London routes including 7, 10, 55, and 73.
Fun Fact
New Burlington Street was home to the famous Sir Joseph Banks, the 18th-century naturalist and botanist who travelled with Captain Cook. He lived at No. 32, where he kept an impressive collection of natural specimens and hosted frequent gatherings of scientists and intellectuals.
Quick Facts
- Location: City of Westminster, central London
- Length: Approx. 170 metres (560 feet)
- Direction: One-way westbound from Regent Street to Savile Row
- Named After: The Burlington family, notably the 3rd Earl of Burlington
- Pronunciation: BYUR-ling-ton /ˈbɜː.lɪŋ.tən/
- Architectural Style: Georgian with modern refurbishments
- Nearest Tube Stations: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, Victoria), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly, Bakerloo)
- Nearby Bus Routes: 12, 22, 88, 139, 453, N3, N109, and others
- Notable Residents: Sir Joseph Banks (18th-century botanist)
- Nearby Sights: Savile Row, Regent Street, Burlington Arcade, Royal Academy of Arts
- Typical Commercial Prices (2024): £140+ per sq ft (£1,507+ per sq m)
- Residential Values (estimate): £3,000+ per sq ft (£32,292+ per sq m)
Map of New Burlington Street, London
Painting of New Burlington Street, London (View image in full size)
