Tothill Street, London
Where Is Tothill Street?
Tothill Street is located in the heart of the City of Westminster, central London. It stretches between the junction of Broadway to the west and Storey’s Gate to the east. It lies just a short walk from Parliament Square and the Palace of Westminster, placing it within one of the most politically significant districts in the UK.How Long Is Tothill Street?
Tothill Street is relatively short—only about 250 metres (or roughly 820 feet) in length. Despite its compact size, it plays a key role in connecting pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the Westminster area.The History of Tothill Street
Tothill Street has been around for centuries. Historical references date back to at least the 14th century, when it served as part of the route connecting Westminster Abbey with the nearby medieval Tothill Fields. The street developed over time alongside the expansion of Westminster, gradually filling with inns, civic buildings, and theatres.How Tothill Street Got Its Name
The name "Tothill" is derived from the old English words "toot" meaning lookout or watchtower and "hill" referring to a rise in the landscape. It likely referred to the raised ground in Tothill Fields, once a large open space used for public gatherings and military musters. The name has been in use since the medieval era, with the street becoming known as Tothill Street by at least the 1500s.Map of Tothill Street, London
Roads That Connect to Tothill Street
Key Buildings and Attractions on Tothill Street
Although a short street, Tothill Street has several significant structures and points of interest:- Westminster Abbey’s Chapter House and Jewel Tower are located just a few steps to the east, at Storey’s Gate.
- St James’s Park Theatre (also known historically as the Westminster Theatre) once stood on Tothill Street before it was destroyed by fire in the early 21st century. It had a long and lively history as a venue for drama and political satire.
- Government offices and administrative buildings line the street today, serving various Westminster functions.
The Character of the Street
Tothill Street has a largely institutional and administrative character. It is not primarily commercial or residential but serves as a transitional street for workers, civil servants, and tourists moving between key destinations in Westminster. Its proximity to Whitehall, Victoria Street, and Parliament means that it sees steady footfall from those on government business or visiting nearby landmarks.
Painting of Tothill Street, London
Nearby Tube Stations and Transport Links
Tothill Street benefits from excellent transport connectivity. The nearest London Underground stations include:- St James’s Park Station – on the District and Circle lines, located just 2 minutes’ walk west along Broadway.
- Westminster Station – on the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines, approximately 5 minutes’ walk to the east via Storey’s Gate.
- Victoria Station – a major transport hub on the Victoria, District, and Circle lines, and National Rail services, is about a 10–12-minute walk away.
Fun Fact About Tothill Street
In the early 18th century, Tothill Street was a place of literary interest. It was home to several printers and publishers, including some involved in publishing controversial political pamphlets during the reigns of Queen Anne and George I. This gave it a minor reputation as a centre for dissent and free speech during a time when such material could be risky to print.Quick Facts About Tothill Street
- Location: City of Westminster, central London
- Length: Approximately 250 metres
- Connects: Broadway and Storey’s Gate
- Nearby Stations: St James’s Park, Westminster, Victoria
- Nearby Sights: Westminster Abbey, Jewel Tower, St James’s Park
- Street Character: Governmental and administrative
- Historic Use: Route to Tothill Fields, home to theatres and publishers
- Name Origin: Old English for “lookout hill”