The Royal Arcade, London's Historic Victorian Shopping Gallery
Discover London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, blending historic elegance with exclusive luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
The Royal Arcade in Mayfair, London, is the city's oldest purpose-built shopping arcade, dating back to 1880. Nestled between Old Bond Street and Albemarle Street, it offers an elegant Victorian atmosphere with a stunning arched glass roof and a curated selection of luxury independent boutiques. This refined arcade is a quiet haven amidst London's bustling high-end shopping district, perfect for discovering exclusive brands and experiencing a touch of historic charm.
A brief summary to 28 The Royal Arcade
- 28 The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, London, W1S 4BT, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the renowned chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker for exquisite handmade chocolates at the Bond Street entrance.
- Explore the boutique stores for unique luxury items including bespoke fashion, fine perfumes, and antiques.
- Admire the Victorian architecture, especially the decorative ironwork and glass roof, while strolling through the arcade.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience away from weekend crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the Jubilee, Victoria, or Piccadilly lines to Green Park station. From there, it is a 5 to 7-minute walk along Piccadilly to reach The Royal Arcade. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the route is accessible with lifts available. No additional cost beyond the standard London Underground fare applies.
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Bus
Several bus routes including numbers 14, 19, 22, 38, N19, N22, N38, and N97 stop near Old Bond Street/Royal Academy on Piccadilly. From the stop, it is a 5 to 8-minute walk to the arcade. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with fares payable by contactless or Oyster card.
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Car
Limited metered parking is available on Albemarle Street and Old Bond Street near the arcade. Alternatively, the NCP car park at Carrington Street (postcode W1J 7AF) is about a 10-minute walk away. Parking fees vary but expect around £3–£6 per hour. Traffic and parking restrictions apply in Mayfair.
28 The Royal Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 28 The Royal Arcade
A Glimpse into London's Oldest Shopping Arcade
The Royal Arcade stands as London's oldest purpose-built shopping arcade, completed in 1880 by architects Archer & Green. It is a Grade II* listed building, preserving its Victorian-era charm and architectural significance. The arcade runs between 12 Albemarle Street and 28 Old Bond Street, right in the heart of Mayfair, one of London's most exclusive neighborhoods. Its highly decorative arched glass roof floods the interior with natural light, creating an inviting and atmospheric shopping environment that echoes a bygone era.Exclusive Boutiques and Luxurious Retail Experience
Inside the arcade, visitors find a carefully curated mix of around a dozen specialist retailers, including renowned names such as designer Paul Smith, perfumer Ormonde Jayne, antique specialist Simon Griffin, and the master chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker. These shops offer a unique blend of luxury goods, from bespoke fashion and fine fragrances to exquisite chocolates and antiques, making the arcade a refined destination for discerning shoppers.Mayfair's Elegant Setting and Cultural Context
Situated in Mayfair, the Royal Arcade is surrounded by some of London's finest parks, world-class galleries, and luxury hotels. The area is synonymous with high society, featuring Michelin-starred dining and upscale nightlife. The arcade's location on Old Bond Street places it among the city's premier shopping streets, known for haute couture and luxury brands. Its historic and cultural context enriches the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into London's elite retail heritage.Architectural and Historical Significance
The arcade's Victorian architecture is notable for its intricate ironwork, mosaic flooring, and the elegant glass roof that arches overhead. This design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reflects 19th-century innovations in commercial architecture. The Royal Arcade has maintained much of its original character and continues to be a treasured landmark, representing the evolution of London's retail landscape.A Quiet Retreat Amidst London's Bustle
Unlike some busier arcades nearby, the Royal Arcade offers a more tranquil and intimate shopping experience. While some units have faced challenges maintaining occupancy, the arcade remains a charming destination for those seeking luxury shopping away from the crowds. Its atmosphere invites leisurely exploration, where visitors can appreciate both the architecture and the quality of the shops.Visiting and Exploring the Arcade
Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and Sundays from 10am to 5pm, the Royal Arcade welcomes visitors to browse its elegant shops and soak in the historic ambiance. Its proximity to Green Park Underground station and several bus routes makes it easily accessible. Whether you are a shopper, architecture enthusiast, or history lover, the Royal Arcade offers a unique London experience blending heritage and luxury retail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burlington House
0.1 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
3 Savile Row
0.2 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.2 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.2 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Pickering Pl
0.5 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.5 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.5 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
St James's Square
0.5 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Liberty’s clock
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Liberty's Clock, an iconic landmark in Carnaby, London, embodying the city’s rich heritage and architectural beauty.
St. James's Palace
0.6 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Pall Mall
0.6 km
Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Clarence House
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Clarence House, a royal residence that embodies British elegance in the heart of London.
Soho
0.6 km
London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charbonnel et Walker
0.0 km
Discover over 150 years of British chocolate mastery and timeless elegance at Charbonnel et Walker in London’s Royal Arcade.
The Royal Institution
0.1 km
Explore centuries of groundbreaking science and iconic lectures at London’s historic Royal Institution, home to Faraday’s legacy and the famous Christmas Lectures.
Burlington Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.2 km
An intimate bronze sculpture of Churchill and Roosevelt sharing a bench, symbolizing 50 years of peace and the enduring UK-US alliance on London’s New Bond Street.
Sprueth Magers Gallery
0.2 km
A leading contemporary art gallery in London’s West End showcasing innovative exhibitions by international artists.
Fortnum & Mason
0.2 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
Piccadilly Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.2 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Savile Row
0.2 km
Savile Row, London’s legendary street, is the global heart of bespoke tailoring, where tradition meets timeless style and craftsmanship.
Princes Arcade
0.3 km
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Prestat Chocolates
0.3 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Bond St
0.3 km
Discover Bond Street, London’s iconic luxury shopping street where history, high fashion, and exclusive boutiques converge in elegant Mayfair.
St James's Piccadilly
0.3 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a historic Wren-designed church blending artistic heritage and serene gardens in the heart of London’s vibrant West End.
Berkeley Square
0.3 km
A timeless Georgian garden square in Mayfair, blending historic grandeur, iconic plane trees, and cultural elegance in central London.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.3 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.2 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
NOPI
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
sketch
0.4 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
HIDE
0.4 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Golden Lion
0.4 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Great British Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.4 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Mele e Pere
0.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Little Social
0.5 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
Bantof
0.5 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Starbucks Coffee
0.5 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.2 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Floris London
0.3 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
LONGCHAMP
0.3 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
John Lobb St. James
0.4 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Lillywhites
0.5 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.5 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Liberty
0.5 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Canvas Collection
0.5 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Machine-A
0.6 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.6 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Beyond Retro Soho
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.7 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Pop Up 38
0.7 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
237 Oxford St
0.7 km
Step into the heart of London’s shopping legacy at 237 Oxford Street, where history meets modern retail energy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.4 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
Cahoots London
0.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Thin White Duke
0.5 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
0.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Argyll Arms
0.7 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Village Soho
0.7 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Duke Of Wellington
0.7 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Basement Sate
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.7 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.7 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.7 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
NQ64 Soho
0.8 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.8 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Nellie Dean
0.8 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.2 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
0.2 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
0.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Scotch of St James
0.3 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Sunset night club
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.6 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
St Moritz Club
0.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
TSQ Club
0.8 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly