Turpentine Lane, London
Turpentine Lane is a short but characterful one-way street in the heart of Pimlico, in the City of Westminster, Central London. Tucked between Lupus Street to the south and Sutherland Street to the north, it serves as a quiet connector road with distinct charm and understated significance.
Where It Is
Located in Pimlico, just a stone’s throw from the River Thames, Turpentine Lane runs north-south between Lupus Street and Sutherland Street. The street lies just east of the Peabody Avenue housing estate.
Length and Traffic Direction
The road spans approximately 120 metres (about 400 feet) in length. It is a narrow, one-way lane allowing vehicular traffic to travel only in a northbound direction—from Lupus Street towards Sutherland Street. However, there is a short section near the junction with Sutherland Street that permits southbound access solely for entry into Peabody Avenue.
History and Development
Turpentine Lane was laid out during the late 19th century, a time when Pimlico was expanding with organised street grids and philanthropic housing developments. The lane originally served as a rear service road for surrounding Victorian terraced houses and was later incorporated into urban housing schemes of the early 20th century, such as the Peabody Trust buildings nearby.
Origin of the Name
The name Turpentine Lane appears on maps as early as the 1880s. It likely derives from a nearby warehouse or factory associated with turpentine—a fluid derived from tree resin, commonly used in the 19th century for paint and varnish production. Such industrial names were not unusual for minor lanes and alleys in London at that time.
Pronunciation: Turpentine is pronounced as TUR-puhn-tyne, and in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) it is /ˈtɜː.pən.taɪn/ 
.
Character and Surroundings
Today, Turpentine Lane retains a distinctly residential and utilitarian character. It is mostly lined with the rear façades and garden walls of adjoining properties. The southern end borders the Peabody Avenue Estate, with its handsome red-brick flats and modest communal courtyards. Despite its functional nature, the lane contributes to Pimlico's sense of quiet order and historic continuity.
Nearby Sights and Attractions
While Turpentine Lane itself is understated, it lies close to several local highlights:
- Peabody Avenue – A model of Victorian social housing with attractive architecture.
- Lupus Street shops and cafes – Local conveniences including bakeries, a pharmacy, and corner shops.
- Riverside Walk – Just a few minutes south, the Thames Path offers river views and peaceful walks.
- Tachbrook Street Market – A lively market with international food stalls, located a short walk away.
Real Estate and Property Values
Properties adjacent to Turpentine Lane—particularly on Peabody Avenue and Sutherland Street—tend to be a mix of council-owned flats and private conversions. As of early 2025, the average price for a one-bedroom flat in the area is approximately £520,000, while two-bedroom flats average around £750,000.
Typical property sizes range from 500 to 800 sq ft (46–74 sq m). These prices are modestly below central London averages, making the area relatively affordable for Zone 1, particularly given its proximity to the Thames and Victoria Station.
Transport Connections
Nearest Underground Stations
- Pimlico Station (Victoria line) – approx. 7 minutes' walk.
- Victoria Station (Victoria, District, and Circle lines, plus National Rail) – approx. 12 minutes' walk.
Bus Stops Nearby
- Lupus Street – Routes 24, 360, and C10 serve this street, providing direct links to Westminster, Camden, Elephant & Castle, and the South Bank.
- Sutherland Street – Served by local routes including the 24 and 11.
Fun Fact
Though little-known today, Turpentine Lane was once listed in Victorian London trade directories for small-scale industrial activity, including a cooper (barrel-maker) and a brush-handle turner—remnants of a time when even Pimlico had working trades among its quiet residential streets.
Quick Facts
- Location: Pimlico, City of Westminster, London SW1V
- Length: Approx. 120 metres (400 ft)
- Traffic Direction: One-way, northbound; southbound permitted at top for Peabody Avenue entry
- Established: Late 19th century
- Name Origin: Possibly from a 19th-century turpentine warehouse or factory
- Pronunciation: TUR-puhn-tyne /ˈtɜː.pən.taɪn/
- Character: Quiet, residential lane behind Peabody housing
- Nearby Sights: Peabody Avenue, Lupus Street shops, Thames Path
- Property Prices (2025): 1-bed ~£520k, 2-bed ~£750k; 500–800 sq ft (46–74 sq m)
- Nearest Tube Stations: Pimlico (Victoria line), Victoria (multiple lines)
- Nearest Bus Routes: 11, 24, 360, C10
- Fun Fact: Once home to Victorian trades like coopers and brush-handle makers
Map of Turpentine Lane, London
Painting of Turpentine Lane, London (View image in full size)