Pimlico Road, London
Pimlico Road is a short but historically and culturally rich street in the heart of Belgravia, within the City of Westminster. Despite its name, most of the road lies within Belgravia rather than Pimlico. It runs from Royal Hospital Road in the west to Ebury Bridge in the east, skirting the edge of Chelsea and approaching the borders of Pimlico. Known for its elegant boutiques, antiques dealers, and high-end interior design stores, Pimlico Road offers a unique fusion of artistic flair and aristocratic calm.
Location and Layout
Pimlico Road spans roughly 0.3 miles (about 500 metres) in length. It runs east-west, with traffic flowing in both directions. The road connects Royal Hospital Road near the Chelsea Flower Show grounds to Ebury Bridge Road near the Grosvenor Waterside development and the Victoria Coach Station. The western end is closest to Chelsea, while the eastern end leads into Pimlico and the broader Victoria area.
History of Pimlico Road
The road developed in the early 19th century during the expansion of Belgravia under the Grosvenor Estate, as London grew southward from the bustling districts of Mayfair and Westminster. Originally part of the marshy area leading toward the Thames, the road was constructed as part of the improvements to connect the prestigious new estate with Chelsea and the Royal Hospital.
Origin of the Name
Despite its location in Belgravia, the road likely received the name "Pimlico Road" in reference to its direction toward the then-budding area of Pimlico. The name appears on maps from the mid-1800s, when the boundaries between Pimlico, Belgravia, and Chelsea were more fluid in perception and naming.
Character and Ambience
Pimlico Road has an elegant and affluent character. It is particularly celebrated for its concentration of antique shops, design galleries, and upscale cafés. The buildings along the street are a mix of Georgian and early Victorian terraces, lending a timeless charm that blends seamlessly with modern sophistication. The road is also notably quieter than nearby King’s Road or Victoria, providing a refined atmosphere favoured by design enthusiasts and well-heeled locals.
Streets branching from Pimlico Road
- Avery Farm Row
- Bloomfield Terrace
- Buckingham Palace Road
- Dove Place
- Ebury Bridge
- Ebury Bridge Road
- Ebury Street
- Holbein Place
- Passmore Street
- Ranelagh Grove
- St Barnabas Street
Attractions and Sights
While Pimlico Road itself is known primarily for its high-end shops and stylish establishments, there are several notable sights and landmarks nearby:
- The Orange Public House – A stylish gastropub located at the corner with Ebury Street.
- The Daylesford Organic Café – A popular organic eatery with a loyal following.
- Les Senteurs – An independent perfumery offering rare and luxury fragrances.
- RHS Chelsea Flower Show grounds – Just a short walk west along Royal Hospital Road.
- Saatchi Gallery and Duke of York Square – Located to the northwest, in walking distance.
Real Estate
Pimlico Road and its surrounding area form part of one of London’s most desirable residential zones. As of early 2025, the average price for a two-bedroom flat in the area is approximately £2.5 million, with larger properties reaching £5–£8 million depending on size, location, and historic value. Flats typically range from 800 to 1,500 sq ft (74 to 140 sq m), while the grander houses can span 3,000 sq ft (280 sq m) or more. Prices here are significantly above the London average, reflecting the road’s prestigious Belgravia setting.
Transport Connections
London Underground
The nearest London Underground station is Sloane Square, served by the District and Circle lines. It is located about a 7-minute walk from Pimlico Road’s western end. Victoria Station, with access to the Victoria, District, and Circle lines, is also within walking distance to the east and offers mainline and coach services.
Bus Services
Several bus routes serve the area, with stops on Royal Hospital Road and Ebury Bridge Road. Nearby routes include the:
- 11 – from Fulham to Liverpool Street
- 170 – from Roehampton to Victoria
- 211 – from Hammersmith to Waterloo
Fun Fact
Pimlico Road is a mecca for interior designers—notably forming part of what's often referred to as the "Pimlico Road Design District." This niche yet influential creative quarter draws global clientele for bespoke furnishings, antiques, and textiles. The area is so well-known in design circles that it hosts annual interior design festivals and showroom events that rival larger commercial exhibitions.
Quick Facts
- Location: Belgravia, City of Westminster, with proximity to Chelsea and Pimlico
- Length: Approx. 0.3 miles (500 metres)
- Traffic: Two-way street
- Nearest Stations: Sloane Square (District & Circle lines), Victoria (Victoria, District & Circle lines)
- Bus Routes: 11, 170, 211
- Notable Sights: Antique shops, Orange Public House, Daylesford Organic, RHS Chelsea Flower Show (nearby)
- Property Prices (2025): From £2.5M for a flat; larger homes £5M+
- Architectural Style: Georgian and early Victorian terraces
- Fun Fact: Part of the prestigious Pimlico Road Design District
Map of Pimlico Road, London
Painting of Pimlico Road, London (View image in full size)