Emerald Court: London's Narrowest Historic Alley
Discover Emerald Court, London’s famously narrow alley, a hidden passage steeped in history and architectural contrasts in Bloomsbury.
Emerald Court, located in London’s Bloomsbury area near Great Ormond Street Hospital, is renowned as one of the city’s narrowest alleys, measuring just 26 inches (67 cm) at its slimmest point. Originally named Green Street, it was renamed in the late 18th century to avoid confusion with other similarly named streets. The alley offers a fascinating glimpse into London’s layered urban history, bridging Georgian-era Rugby Street with a mix of 20th-century architecture.
A brief summary to Smallest Street in London
- Emerald Ct, London, WC1N 3QZ, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to better appreciate the alley’s tight dimensions and surrounding architectural details.
- Look for the camouflaged alarm box near the Susannah Hunter store as a quirky point of interest.
- Explore nearby Rugby Street to see fine Georgian houses and learn about the Rugby Estate’s history.
- Notice the plaque at the former French’s Dairy shop commemorating the White Conduit’s medieval water system.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Russell Square station on the Piccadilly Line, then walk approximately 10 minutes through Bloomsbury’s streets to reach Emerald Court. The journey typically takes 20–30 minutes from central London. No additional cost beyond standard tube fare applies.
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Bus
Use London bus routes 7, 19, or 38 to reach stops near Theobalds Road or Southampton Row, about a 5-minute walk from Emerald Court. Bus travel times vary from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic, with standard bus fares applicable.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations to Emerald Court typically takes 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £10–£20. Note that narrow streets nearby may limit drop-off points.
Smallest Street in London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Smallest Street in London
A Unique Urban Relic in Central London
Emerald Court stands out as one of London’s most extraordinary narrow alleys, barely wide enough for a person to pass comfortably. Measuring approximately 26 inches (67 cm) at its narrowest point, it challenges visitors to squeeze through a tight slit in the streetscape. This alley is tucked away in Bloomsbury, near the Great Ormond Street Hospital, and is often cited as the narrowest alley in London, rivaling other contenders such as Brydges Place and Crawford Passage.Historical Evolution and Naming
Originally called Green Street, Emerald Court was renamed in the late 18th century to avoid confusion with other green-themed streets nearby. The surrounding area, known as the Rugby Estate, traces its origins back to a 1567 charitable bequest of land to Rugby School by Lawrence Sherriff, a grocer from Rugby. The land transitioned from farmland to urban development in the early 18th century, with Rugby Street (formerly Chapel Street) and Emerald Court established by 1814. The alley’s enduring presence on maps from the 18th century highlights its historical significance within London’s evolving cityscape.Architectural Contrast and Surroundings
Emerald Court forms a narrow passageway between the Georgian-era buildings lining Rugby Street and a block of modern flats behind the shops. This juxtaposition of architectural styles encapsulates the layered history of the area, where 18th-century elegance meets 20th-century urban development. The alley’s modest size contrasts with the grandeur of the surrounding streets, making it a curious and intimate urban feature.Hidden Historical Features
Near the alley, the former French’s Dairy shop front retains a plaque commemorating the White Conduit, an ancient water conduit supplying Greyfriars Monastery. Beneath the shop lie remains of a stone chamber and tank with an arched chalk roof, discovered in 1907. These hidden historical elements add depth to the area’s rich heritage, connecting the narrow alley to London’s medieval past.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Emerald Court’s extreme narrowness creates a distinctive experience for visitors, evoking a sense of discovery and curiosity. The alley’s intimate scale invites exploration and offers a rare glimpse into London’s lesser-known urban fabric. Despite its modest size, the alley is a notable landmark for those interested in London’s architectural quirks and historical layers.Legacy and Local Significance
While other alleys like Brydges Place and Crawford Passage compete for the title of narrowest street, Emerald Court remains a celebrated contender due to its historical context and enduring presence. It reflects the complex evolution of London’s streets and estates, preserving a fragment of the city’s past within its tight confines. The Rugby Estate’s continued ownership by a charitable trust underscores the area’s unique social and historical legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Thomas Coram
0.4 km
A seated bronze tribute to the philanthropist who saved thousands of abandoned children from London's streets.
Sicilian Avenue
0.5 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
190 High Holborn
0.7 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
John Wilkes statue
0.9 km
Explore the John Wilkes Statue in London, a significant cultural landmark celebrating civil liberties and the fight for free speech.
covent Garden ,
0.9 km
Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Woburn Walk
0.9 km
London's first pedestrianized shopping street, a beautifully preserved Regency gem in literary Bloomsbury.
Royal Courts of Justice
1.0 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece where British justice convenes beneath soaring pinnacles and intricate stone carvings.
Temple Bar Memorial
1.0 km
Historic gateway marking the City of London's boundary, crowned by a fierce dragon and rich with royal and civic heritage.
Bow St
1.0 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Bomber Harris Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
St Clement Danes Church
1.0 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
1.0 km
Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
Prince Henry's Room
1.0 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
St Pancras New Church
1.0 km
A majestic Greek Revival church in London, blending ancient Athenian design with rich history and vibrant community life.
Hodge The Cat Statue
1.0 km
Discover the charm of Hodge The Cat Statue in London, a delightful tribute to literary history and a must-visit for cat lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Persephone books
0.1 km
Explore the unique literary treasures of Persephone Books, a London bookshop dedicated to uncovering forgotten works by women authors.
The Lamb
0.2 km
Step into The Lamb on Lamb's Conduit Street, a Georgian gem with Victorian charm, famed for its snob screens, real ales, and literary heritage.
Charles Dickens Museum
0.2 km
Step into the Victorian world of Charles Dickens at his only surviving London home, where literary history and personal stories come alive.
Coram's Fields
0.2 km
A historic seven-acre playground and community hub in London dedicated exclusively to children and young people.
1 Queen Square
0.3 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden square renowned for medical heritage, tranquil gardens, and Georgian architecture.
Queen Square
0.3 km
A historic Bloomsbury square blending Georgian charm, royal ties, and a world-renowned medical heritage in tranquil garden surroundings.
Brunswick Square Gardens
0.4 km
Historic Bloomsbury garden where literary giants walked beneath ancient plane trees and bohemian dreams took root.
The Postal Museum
0.4 km
Discover five centuries of postal history and ride London’s secret underground Mail Rail at The Postal Museum in Clerkenwell.
Curzon Bloomsbury
0.4 km
Discover world-class arthouse cinema and documentary premieres at Curzon Bloomsbury, nestled in the iconic Brunswick Centre.
Foundling Museum
0.5 km
Explore the Foundling Museum, where art, music, and history unite to tell the story of Britain’s first children’s charity and its enduring legacy.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.5 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Russell Sq
0.5 km
A peaceful Georgian garden square in Bloomsbury, blending historic charm with serene green spaces in central London.
The Brunswick Centre
0.5 km
A Grade II listed modernist residential and shopping complex blending architecture, community, and culture in Bloomsbury, London.
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.5 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
0.6 km
London’s largest historic square blending centuries of legal heritage, dramatic history, and tranquil green space in the heart of Holborn.
Essential places to dine
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Margot
0.9 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Sarastro
0.9 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Circus
1.0 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Inamo Covent Garden
1.0 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
1.0 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.1 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
1.1 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
1.1 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Balthazar
1.1 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
St. John
1.1 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Punch & Judy
1.2 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Chez Antoinette
1.2 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Palm Court Brasserie
1.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Fancy That of London
0.7 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.9 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
1.0 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Rokit Covent Garden
1.0 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
1.0 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
Twinings - The Strand
1.0 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Good
1.0 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
1.0 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
1.0 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
The Store X
1.1 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Primark
1.1 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
1.1 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
London Transport Museum - Shop
1.2 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke
0.1 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.5 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Coral Room
0.9 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
The Old Bank of England
1.0 km
Historic Victorian pub on Fleet Street housed in a former Bank of England branch with grand interiors and legendary London tales.
Be At One - Russell Street
1.0 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
The Escapologist Bar
1.1 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Plume Wine Bar
1.1 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
1.1 km
A quirky, retro-inspired cocktail bar in Kings Cross with lively music, creative drinks, and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Chocolate Cocktail Club
1.1 km
London’s intimate chocolate cocktail bar blending rich flavors, stylish ambiance, and over 20 unique chocolate-infused drinks.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
1.1 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
1.1 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Crusting Pipe
1.1 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Prelude by Oriole
1.2 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
Cosy Cocktail Bar
1.2 km
A stylish speakeasy in King's Cross offering expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, intimate setting perfect for evenings and private events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.8 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
1.0 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
1.1 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Ivy Club
1.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Club49Soho
1.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Proud Late
1.3 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
101 Nightclub London
1.4 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
1.4 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
St Moritz Club
1.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.5 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sophisticats Soho
1.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
