Vincent Street, London
Vincent Street, Westminster - Connecting the Past and Present
Vincent Street is a short but historically rich street in the heart of Westminster, running east to west between Marsham Street and Vincent Square. It showcases a blend of architectural charm, political history, and central London convenience.Vincent Street is located in the southern part of the City of Westminster, London SW1. It runs in a gentle curve from Marsham Street in the east to Vincent Square in the west. This quiet, tree-lined street is set within a neighbourhood steeped in history and surrounded by key institutions such as the Home Office and the Houses of Parliament. Despite its central location, Vincent Street enjoys a calm, residential atmosphere.
Length of Vincent Street and Size of Vincent Square
Vincent Street measures approximately 250 metres (820 feet) in length. While short, it plays a connective role in linking two significant points in Westminster’s urban fabric.At its western end lies Vincent Square, a spacious and private garden square of approximately 4.5 acres (18,200 square metres), dominated by the playing fields of Westminster School. This green expanse adds an open, tranquil feel to the area, contrasting with the busier government buildings to the east.
History of Vincent Street
Vincent Street was developed in the early 19th century as part of the expansion of the Millbank Estate, which was originally farmland belonging to the Abbey of Westminster. After the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII, the land passed into various private hands and saw gradual development.The area began to take its modern shape around the 1820s and 1830s, with streets like Vincent Street being laid out to accommodate London’s growing middle classes. Over time, many of the houses were rebuilt or refurbished during the Victorian period, and some were later replaced with modern buildings in the mid-20th century.
How Did Vincent Street Get Its Name?
The street is named after Vincent Square, which in turn is believed to be named in honour of Dean Vincent, a former Dean of Westminster Abbey (Dean William Vincent, 1739–1815).Dean Vincent was known for his scholarship and long service at Westminster School, one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. The name was first recorded officially in the early 19th century when the square and surrounding roads were being mapped and formalised.
Real Estate Prices and Property Sizes (As of April 2025)
Vincent Street is a desirable residential address, primarily consisting of converted flats in Victorian or post-war buildings, along with a few modern low-rise developments. Most properties here range in size from:- 500–750 sq ft (46–70 sq m) for one-bedroom flats
- 750–1,200 sq ft (70–112 sq m) for two-bedroom flats
- One-bedroom flat: £725,000–£850,000
- Two-bedroom flat: £950,000–£1.4 million
Character of the Street
Vincent Street is primarily residential, with a calm, neighbourly feel. The street has low vehicle traffic, which adds to its appeal for families and professionals working in nearby government offices.Although mostly residential, the street lies within walking distance of several commercial and civic buildings, making it highly convenient. The mix of period architecture and modern flats reflects the evolving character of this part of Westminster.
Nearest Underground Stations and Transport Links
Vincent Street benefits from excellent transport links. The nearest London Underground stations are:- St James’s Park (Circle & District lines) – approx. 7 minutes on foot
- Victoria Station (Victoria, Circle & District lines + National Rail) – approx. 10 minutes’ walk
- Westminster Station (Jubilee, Circle & District lines) – approx. 12 minutes’ walk
Fun Fact About Vincent Street
A little-known fun fact is that Vincent Street lies just a few minutes' walk from the site of the former Millbank Prison, which once stood near the Thames and served as a major departure point for British convicts being transported to Australia.The prison was demolished in the 1890s, but remnants of its history remain in the street names of the area. Vincent Street, with its quiet charm, lies just outside the footprint of this once-infamous institution, making it part of London’s hidden criminal past.
Quick Facts About Vincent Street
- Location: Westminster, London SW1
- Length: Approx. 250 metres (820 feet)
- Connects: Vincent Square (west) to Marsham Street (east)
- Named After: Dean William Vincent of Westminster School
- Development Era: Early 19th century
- Property Prices (2025): £725,000–£1.4 million
- Character: Predominantly residential
- Nearest Stations: St James’s Park, Victoria, Westminster
- Nearby Landmark: Vincent Square playing fields
- Interesting Fact: Near former Millbank Prison site
Map of Vincent Street, London
Painting of Vincent Street, London (View image in full size)