Broadway, London
Where Government Meets the Historic Heart of Westminster
Broadway is a short but historically significant street in the City of Westminster, London. It is situated just south of St James’s Park and north of Victoria Street, making it an important connector within the central government and administrative quarter of the capital.The street runs from its junction with Victoria Street and continues northeast until it meets Tothill Street and Petty France. This area is known for its proximity to key government buildings and offices, and lies just a short walk from the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.
Length and Layout
Broadway is a relatively short street, measuring approximately 300 metres (around 980 feet) in length. Despite its modest size, the street plays an important role in the layout of Westminster’s civic core.Its shape gently curves and narrows as it leads from Victoria Street toward Tothill Street. The street is flanked by large institutional and office buildings and has wide pavements with limited retail activity, reflecting its businesslike character.
Historical Background
Broadway dates back several centuries and evolved as part of Westminster’s expansion during the 17th and 18th centuries. The area around Broadway was once open land known as Tothill Fields, used for markets and public gatherings. Over time, the fields gave way to dense development as Westminster grew into the administrative heart of the British government.By the 19th century, Broadway had become associated with civil administration and public service, a legacy that continues to this day. It was never a commercial high street or residential boulevard, but rather a functional and strategic corridor close to the power centres of British politics.
Origin of the Name
The name "Broadway" likely originates from the street’s relatively wider dimensions compared to surrounding lanes and alleys of old Westminster. “Broadway” was a common name used across England for wider-than-usual roads in medieval and early modern periods.While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact date the name was formally adopted, records show the street being referred to as Broadway in maps and documents from the mid-18th century onwards.
Map of Broadway, London
Streets that connect to Broadway
- Caxton Street
- Dacre Street
- Petty France
- Queen Anne's Gate
- St Ermin's Hill
- Tothill Street
- Victoria Street
Major Buildings and Institutions
Broadway is lined with key government and public service buildings, reinforcing its status as a centre of officialdom:- 55 Broadway – An iconic Art Deco building and former headquarters of London Underground, designed by Charles Holden. It was once the tallest office block in London and is a Grade I listed building.
- UK Passport Office – A major branch of His Majesty’s Passport Office is located along Broadway, often attracting visitors from across the country.
- New Scotland Yard (former site) – From 1967 to 2016, Broadway was home to the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Service. Its revolving sign became one of London’s iconic symbols. The HQ has since moved to Victoria Embankment, but the building remains a notable address.
Painting of Broadway, London
Sights and Attractions Nearby
While Broadway itself is not tourist-oriented, it lies within easy reach of major Westminster landmarks:- St James’s Park – Just to the north, this royal park offers views of Buckingham Palace and quiet green spaces.
- Westminster Abbey – Only a few minutes’ walk away, this historic church is central to British ceremonial life.
- Houses of Parliament – Accessible via Tothill Street and Parliament Square.
Character and Use
Broadway is firmly in the administrative and institutional category of London streets. It is dominated by government buildings, public offices, and corporate headquarters.There is minimal retail activity, though a few cafés and coffee shops serve the working population. The street is quiet during weekends but busy on weekdays due to footfall from civil servants and business visitors.
In short, Broadway’s character is professional, governmental, and utilitarian, with little residential presence.
Transport and Nearest Underground Stations
Broadway is exceptionally well-served by public transport. Two London Underground stations are very close:- St James's Park Station – Located directly at the eastern end of Broadway, this station is on the District and Circle lines.
- Victoria Station – Just a short walk southwest via Victoria Street, served by the Victoria, District, and Circle lines, as well as National Rail and coach services.
Fun Fact
One of London’s most celebrated buildings, 55 Broadway, was controversial when completed in 1929 due to the presence of nude sculptures on its exterior. The sculptures, by artists like Eric Gill and Henry Moore, caused a public outcry at the time but are now considered important examples of British modernist art.Quick Facts
- Borough: City of Westminster
- Length: Approx. 300 metres
- Connected Streets: Victoria Street, Tothill Street, Petty France
- Main Use: Government and public services
- Nearest Tube Stations: St James’s Park (District & Circle), Victoria (Victoria, District & Circle)
- Notable Buildings: 55 Broadway, former New Scotland Yard, HM Passport Office
- Nearby Sights: Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Houses of Parliament
- Fun Fact: 55 Broadway’s nude sculptures sparked 1920s controversy