South Street, London
South Street is a refined and tranquil residential street nestled in the heart of Mayfair, a district within the City of Westminster, London. Running east to west, it connects the grand thoroughfare of Park Lane with the quieter and more intimate Farm Street. This elegant enclave is known for its historic architecture, secluded atmosphere, and reputation as one of London's most prestigious addresses.
Location and Character
South Street lies in the western reaches of Westminster, between the hustle of Park Lane and the genteel charm of Farm Street. The street sits just north of Curzon Street and parallel to Upper Grosvenor Street, placing it within easy walking distance of Hyde Park and central Mayfair's high-end shops, clubs, and restaurants.
The ambience is one of understated luxury. Flanked by Georgian and early 20th-century mansion blocks, interspersed with elegant townhouses, South Street exudes a quiet, exclusive character. Traffic is minimal, and much of the street is residential, with gated mews and private front doors giving a village-like feel in the centre of a global city.
Streets connecting to South Street
- Balfour Mews
- Chesterfield Hill
- Farm Street
- Park Lane
- Park Street
- Rex Place
- South Audley Street
- Waverton Street
History and Development
South Street was laid out in the 18th century as part of the grand Mayfair estate development, designed to house the upper classes within proximity to Hyde Park and the political heart of the country. The street's architecture reflects a range of styles, from classic Georgian to Edwardian brickwork, with many properties retaining period features and ornate detailing.
The name “South Street” likely reflects its position on the southern portion of the original Mayfair grid layout. While there is no dramatic historical tale behind the name, it follows a typical London pattern of pragmatic, directional street-naming common in 18th-century developments.
Notable Buildings and Nearby Attractions
One of South Street's most famous former residents was Winston Churchill, who lived at 28 South Street as a young man. His time there in the late 19th century is commemorated with a plaque, offering a small historical touchpoint for visitors.
Nearby attractions include:
- Grosvenor Square – a leafy square with diplomatic buildings, just a short walk north.
- Hyde Park – one of London's largest royal parks, accessible via Park Lane.
- Farm Street Church – the elegant Jesuit church at the eastern end of the street.
- Shepherd Market – a historic and lively pocket of Mayfair filled with boutiques and eateries.
Property and Real Estate
South Street's real estate is among the most desirable in London. As of 2025, townhouses here can fetch prices starting from £10 million for a 4,000 sq ft (approx. 372 sq m) home, with penthouses and larger freeholds reaching upwards of £25 million1. Flats in converted mansions or purpose-built blocks range from £3 million for a 1,500 sq ft (139 sq m) apartment to significantly higher depending on amenities, outlook, and historical significance.
In terms of price per square foot, South Street properties routinely exceed £3,000 per sq ft, placing them among the priciest in the City of Westminster and indeed all of London.
Transport Links
London Underground
The nearest London Underground stations are:
- Green Park Station – serving the Jubilee Line, Piccadilly Line, and Victoria Line (10-minute walk)
- Bond Street Station – on the Central Line and Jubilee Line (also connects to the Elizabeth Line)
- Oxford Circus Station – connecting the Bakerloo Line, Central Line, and Victoria Line
These stations offer fast links across central and greater London and provide easy access to the wider London Underground Stations network.
Bus Routes
Nearby bus stops are located along Park Lane and Curzon Street. Routes including the 2, 16, 36, 73, 148, and 390 serve these stops, connecting South Street with areas such as Marble Arch, Victoria, Notting Hill, and King's Cross.
Fun Fact
Winston Churchill, one of the most famous British Prime Ministers, lived at 28 South Street in the 1890s. The young Churchill would often pace the area while dictating notes and speeches, and it was here that he began his prolific writing career. Today, the house remains a privately-owned residence with its original façade intact.
Quick Facts
- Location: Mayfair, City of Westminster, London
- Connects: Park Lane (west) to Farm Street (east)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Green Park, Bond Street, Oxford Circus
- Nearby Bus Routes: 2, 16, 36, 73, 148, 390
- Known For: Exclusive residences, quiet elegance, Churchill's former home
- Real Estate Prices (2025): From £3 million for flats, over £25 million for townhouses
- Property Sizes: Ranging from 1,500 sq ft (139 sq m) to 5,000+ sq ft (465+ sq m)
- Nearby Sights: Hyde Park, Grosvenor Square, Farm Street Church
- Fun Fact: Winston Churchill lived at 28 South Street in the late 19th century
References
Map of South Street, London
Painting of South Street, London
Page Details
This page was created on 3 June 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.Moving to London?
New to London and need a place to live? Read our Renting A Flat Guide. This guide covers everything you need to know about renting a flat in London, from viewing to signing.Streets of London
Come, let's explore and discover the streets of London together! Listed here afre the Streets of London that I have documented. Dive in and discover!Map of Streets in London
View all the streets that I have documented on Google Maps in this Map of Streets in London.Want to share your London travel experiences or get tips from fellow travellers?
Join the London Travel Tips Facebook GroupMore information for visiting London
Here are some related articles to help you get to know London better.- Cost of Living in London: Discover the true cost of living in London, including housing, transport, groceries, and more - plus tips for budgeting in one of the world's most expensive cities.
- Driving in London: Planning to drive in London? Learn about roads, car rentals, parking, tolls, and key tips for tourists and visitors from outside the capital.
- Driving Tips for Visiting London: Thinking of driving to London? Discover the best times to travel, congestion tips, parking apps, breakdown help, and petrol advice for a smoother journey.
- Evolution of London's Streets: Discover the fascinating history of how London's streets developed from ancient footpaths to today's complex network of roads across the capital.
- History of Immigration to London: Discover the rich history of immigration to London, from Huguenots to Bangladeshis, and how diverse communities have shaped the city's vibrant identity.
- How Big Is London Compared to Other World Cities?
- How London's Streets Measure Up: A Global Comparison of Road Widths
- How Streets of London are Named: Discover how London streets get their names, who decides them, and how historic, political, and public influences shape street naming in the capital.
- How the Grosvenor Family Came to Own Much of Mayfair, Belgravia and Pimlico: Explore how the Grosvenor family came to own much of Mayfair, Belgravia, and Pimlico, and learn about their historical connection (or lack thereof) with the British royal family and government.
- Living and working in London
- London's Quiet Collapse: How Living Standards Fell as Costs Skyrockted (1975-2025): Explore how London residents endured rising costs and falling living standards from 1975 to 2025 - from rocketing rents to wage stagnation and inflation.
- Marvel of the London Underground: Discover the history, challenges, and triumphs of the London Underground - the world's first underground railway and a vital transport lifeline for the UK capital since 1863.
- Moving to London: Expat Tips for Settling in Westminster: Essential advice for expats moving to London's Westminster: neighborhood insights, cost of living, transportation, housing, healthcare, schools, and tips to help you feel at home in the heart of the city.
- Places in London that aren't pronounced the way they're spelled
- Shopping in London: Discover London's diverse shopping scene
- Taking the bus in London: This is your complete guide to taking the bus when in London.
- The Anglican Faith: A Visitor's Guide to the Church of England: Learn about the Anglican faith and its deep ties to London's landmarks like Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral.
- Top 10 London Streets Every Visitor Must See: Discover London through its most iconic thoroughfares - 10 streets every visitor must experience. From historic Abbey Road to vibrant Camden High Street, explore culture, shopping, and hidden gems.
- Why are most roads in Central London so narrow? Learn why there are so few multi-lane roads and elevated highways in the heart of the city.
