White Horse Street, London
White Horse Street is a short but historic street in the heart of Mayfair, part of the City of Westminster in central London. It connects the atmospheric Shepherd Market to the north with the major thoroughfare of Piccadilly to the south. Measuring just 107 metres in length, it is a peaceful side street with a rich past and a charming character that continues to attract both residents and curious visitors.
Overview and Surroundings
White Horse Street is situated in one of London’s most prestigious areas, flanked by some of the most iconic destinations in the West End. At its northern end, the street opens into the quaint and historic Shepherd Market, a delightful enclave filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and pubs nestled around a cobbled square. To the south, it meets Piccadilly, one of London’s major roads, linking St James's to Hyde Park Corner.
Surrounding streets include Shepherd Street and Trebeck Street to the north and west. The area is also a stone’s throw from Green Park and Berkeley Square, two notable green spaces in the district.
Length and Traffic
The total measured length of White Horse Street is 107 metres (351 feet). It is a narrow, one-way street with vehicular access permitted in the direction from Piccadilly northwards to Shepherd Market. Traffic is usually light, and the street has a pedestrian-friendly feel due to its short length and Mayfair setting.
History and Name Origin
White Horse Street dates back to the 18th century and is among the older thoroughfares associated with the development of Shepherd Market. It appears on John Rocque’s map of London from the 1740s. The name likely derives from a former tavern or coaching inn known as the “White Horse,” a common motif for inns in Georgian London. Taverns were essential markers for travellers in pre-modern London, and this would have been a convenient rest point for those entering the city from the west.
Pronunciation: White Horse Street is pronounced "whyt hawrs street" and in the International Phonetic Alphabet: /ˌwaɪt ˈhɔːs striːt/ 
Character and Atmosphere
The street retains a distinctly historic and secluded character. Set within the prestigious Mayfair district, its blend of understated façades, Georgian-style buildings, and nearby mews lanes contribute to a sense of quiet refinement. Despite being located just steps from bustling Piccadilly, White Horse Street feels surprisingly calm, with minimal traffic and a residential-meets-commercial feel. Street lighting and traditional architectural features add to its charm.
Points of Interest Nearby
Although White Horse Street itself is modest in scale, it lies close to numerous points of interest:
- Shepherd Market – A lively and attractive enclave of shops, restaurants, and pubs, known for its quaint alleyways and 18th-century ambience.
- Green Park – A peaceful Royal Park ideal for a stroll, located just minutes away.
- Piccadilly – This major London street leads to Hyde Park, St James's and eventually to the City.
- Burlington Arcade and Royal Academy of Arts – A short walk eastwards down Piccadilly.
Real Estate and Property
Property along White Horse Street is highly sought after due to its location in the heart of Mayfair. The area is primarily comprised of flats above shops or small office spaces, as well as mews-style residences and converted period buildings. As of mid-2025, real estate prices in this part of Mayfair range from approximately £2,500 to £3,500 per square foot (£26,910–£37,670 per sq metre) depending on size, finish, and floor level. A one-bedroom flat of about 700 sq ft (65 sq m) can fetch upwards of £2 million. These values significantly exceed the average across the City of London and Greater London as a whole.
Transport Connections
London Underground
White Horse Street benefits from proximity to several key London Underground stations:
- Green Park Station (Piccadilly Line, Jubilee Line, Victoria Line) – Approx. 4 minutes' walk
- Piccadilly Circus Station (Bakerloo Line, Piccadilly Line) – Approx. 8 minutes' walk
- Bond Street Station (Central Line, Jubilee Line) – Approx. 12 minutes' walk
For full information on these stations, visit London Underground Stations.
Bus Services
The nearest bus stops are along Piccadilly, where routes serve destinations across the City, Westminster, and beyond. Regular routes include the 9, 14, 19, 22, and 38 buses, offering quick connections across central London.
Fun Fact
White Horse Street has long had an intriguing reputation. In the early 20th century, Shepherd Market and its surrounding lanes—including White Horse Street—gained notoriety for discreet liaisons and colourful characters, a contrast to the refined airs of Mayfair. Today, it retains a slightly bohemian flair, popular with photographers and filmmakers seeking atmospheric backdrops.
Quick Facts
- Location: Mayfair, City of Westminster, London
- Length: 107 metres (351 feet)
- Direction: One-way from Piccadilly northwards to Shepherd Market
- Nearby Attractions: Shepherd Market, Piccadilly, Green Park
- Nearest Tube Stations: Green Park, Piccadilly Circus, Bond Street
- Served by: Piccadilly Line, Jubilee Line, Victoria Line, Bakerloo Line, Central Line
- Nearby Bus Routes: 9, 14, 19, 22, 38 (on Piccadilly)
- Historic Significance: Dates to the 18th century; name likely comes from a local tavern
- Pronunciation: /ˌwaɪt ˈhɔːs striːt/
- Property Prices (2025): £2,500–£3,500 per sq ft (£26,910–£37,670 per sq m)
Map of White Horse Street, London
Painting of White Horse Street, London (View image in full size)
