Remnant Street, London
Remnant Street is a short but notable street nestled within the City of Westminster, in central London. It forms a narrow connection from Kingsway and Great Queen Street in the west to the eastern boundary at Lincoln’s Inn Fields, marking the transition between the theatrical West End and the historic legal heart of the city. Though it stretches only a short distance, the street sits at a confluence of legal, historical, and architectural significance.
Street Layout and Surroundings
Remnant Street runs east-west and is mostly pedestrian-friendly, given its narrow width and limited traffic access. To the west, it adjoins Kingsway, a major north-south artery constructed in the early 20th century. It also intersects with Great Queen Street, known for its links to Drury Lane and Long Acre. At the eastern end lies Lincoln’s Inn Fields, a large historic square popular for its gardens, historic buildings, and barristers' chambers.
The street sits close to key hubs in the capital’s transport and legal systems, making it a quiet yet crucial thoroughfare. It's surrounded by 19th and early 20th-century architecture, characterised by stone façades and civic buildings. Much of the surrounding area is occupied by offices, legal chambers, and cultural institutions.
History and Name
The origins of Remnant Street date back to early 20th-century urban renewal, particularly during the construction of Kingsway and Aldwych around 1905. The street was likely laid out during this major redevelopment phase, which saw the clearance of slums and the emergence of grander urban design plans by the London County Council.
The name "Remnant" is believed to honour Baron Remnant, a Conservative politician and philanthropist active during the time of Kingsway’s construction. The name also fittingly describes its character as a “remnant” lane or passage surviving through larger redevelopment schemes.
Pronunciation: Remnant is pronounced REM-nənt /ˈrɛmnənt/.
Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest
While Remnant Street itself is modest in size, its surroundings are rich in attractions:
- Lincoln’s Inn Fields – The largest public square in London, dating back to the 17th century, with green lawns, tennis courts, and historical legal chambers.
- Sir John Soane’s Museum – Located on the north side of Lincoln’s Inn Fields, this unique house-museum is filled with art, architecture, and curiosities.
- Freemasons’ Hall – A Grade II* listed building on Great Queen Street, home to the United Grand Lodge of England.
- Royal Courts of Justice – A short walk away on the Strand, this grand neo-Gothic courthouse is a centre of the English legal system.
Property and Real Estate
As of June 2025, property values near Remnant Street are reflective of its prestigious location near Lincoln’s Inn Fields and the West End. Residential flats in the area range from around 650 to 1,200 sq ft (60 to 110 sq m). A one-bedroom apartment of approximately 700 sq ft (65 sq m) would fetch prices in the range of £950,000 to £1.3 million. Rental prices for similarly sized flats range between £3,500 and £5,000 per month, depending on amenities and building quality.
These figures are significantly above the average for London, owing to the street's centrality, proximity to legal institutions, and historical importance.
Transport Links
London Underground
The closest London Underground Stations are:
- Holborn Station – Served by the Central and Piccadilly lines; located approximately 4 minutes’ walk northwest of Remnant Street.
- Chancery Lane Station – Served by the Central line; located about 7 minutes’ walk east along High Holborn.
Bus Services
Nearby bus stops are located on Kingsway and High Holborn, offering services that connect to major destinations such as Oxford Circus, Waterloo, Tottenham Court Road, and the City of London. Routes include the 1, 59, 68, 91, 168, and 188, among others.
Fun Fact
Though small and easily overlooked, Remnant Street has featured in numerous legal dramas and documentaries due to its proximity to Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Its quiet character and historic surroundings have made it a favourite shooting location for period television series, particularly those set in early 20th-century London.
Quick Facts
- Location: Connects Kingsway and Great Queen Street to Lincoln's Inn Fields in Westminster
- Pronunciation: REM-nənt /ˈrɛmnənt/
- Historical Context: Emerged during Kingsway redevelopment in early 20th century
- Name Origin: Possibly named after Baron Remnant; also connotes a leftover or small passage
- Nearby Attractions: Lincoln's Inn Fields, Sir John Soane's Museum, Freemasons' Hall
- Property Prices (June 2025): £950,000–£1.3 million for 700 sq ft (65 sq m) flat
- Rental Rates: £3,500–£5,000/month
- Nearest Tube Stations: Holborn Station, Chancery Lane Station
- Bus Services: Accessible via Kingsway and High Holborn with numerous route options
- Fun Fact: Frequently used as a filming location for legal and period dramas
Map of Remnant Street, London
Painting of Remnant Street, London