Thin House, 5 Thurloe Square, South Kensington
Discover London’s iconic Victorian-era Thin House, a wedge-shaped architectural marvel in South Kensington, famed for its extraordinary narrowness and artistic heritage.
The Thin House at 5 Thurloe Square in South Kensington, London, is a striking Victorian-era wedge-shaped building known for its extraordinary narrowness of just 1.2 meters (6 feet) at its slimmest point. Originally built as artists’ studios in the late 19th century, it now comprises modern flats prized for their unique architecture and prime London location near museums and luxury shopping.
A brief summary to Thin House
- 5 Thurloe Square, London, South Kensington, SW7 2TA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to capture the best light on the powder blue façade and avoid crowds of photographers.
- For the best photo, position yourself at the corner of Thurloe Place and Thurloe Square to highlight the building’s unique narrow profile.
- Explore the nearby Victoria and Albert Museum and Natural History Museum to complement your visit to this architectural curiosity.
- Note that the building is residential, so respect privacy and avoid trespassing on private property.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the District or Piccadilly Line to South Kensington Station, then walk approximately 7 minutes southwest along Thurloe Place to reach 5 Thurloe Square. The station is well-serviced with trains every 2-5 minutes during peak times. No parking is available nearby, so public transport is recommended.
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Bus
Several London bus routes, including the 14, 49, and 74, stop near South Kensington Station. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the Thin House. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with single fares costing around £1.65 using contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to 5 Thurloe Square typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £10 and £20. Note that parking is very limited in the area, so drop-off and pick-up are recommended.
Thin House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Thin House
A Unique Architectural Marvel in South Kensington
The Thin House stands as a remarkable example of Victorian ingenuity and urban adaptation. Situated at 5 Thurloe Square, this slender building occupies a narrow triangular plot that was left vacant after the demolition of several houses to make way for the expansion of the London Underground’s District Line in the late 1800s. Its narrowest width measures only about 1.2 meters (6 feet), making it one of London's most unusual and visually captivating structures.Historical Roots and Artistic Beginnings
Constructed in the late 19th century by local builder William Douglas, the Thin House was originally designed to provide seven artists’ studios within the confined triangular space. This creative use of limited land reflects the area's reputation at the time as a hub for artists and bohemians. The building’s façade features classic Victorian design elements, including columned porches and elegant detailing, blending traditional aesthetics with its extraordinary form.Modern Adaptation and Residential Use
Today, the Thin House has been converted into multiple flats, each offering a distinctive living experience shaped by the building’s narrow footprint. Apartments here are highly sought after, commanding premium prices due to their central location in South Kensington, close to landmarks such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. Despite its small size, the building includes amenities like a small terrace and access to communal gardens, enhancing its residential appeal.Optical Illusion and Photographic Appeal
The Thin House is famous for its optical illusion effect: when viewed from the front, it appears as a conventional townhouse, but from the side, its extreme narrowness is revealed. Photographers and architecture enthusiasts flock here to capture its unique shape, especially from the corner of Thurloe Place and Thurloe Square, where the building’s two-dimensional appearance is most striking. Early morning light enhances its powder blue façade, making it a favorite subject for social media and photography.Location and Urban Context
Nestled in the prestigious South Kensington neighborhood, the Thin House benefits from proximity to major cultural institutions, upscale shopping, and excellent transport links. The surrounding area retains much of its 19th-century charm, with elegant terraces and garden squares. The building’s unusual shape is a direct result of urban development pressures and the expansion of London’s Underground, offering a tangible story of the city’s growth and architectural adaptation.Legacy and Cultural Significance
More than just a curiosity, the Thin House symbolizes creative problem-solving in urban architecture and stands as a testament to London's layered history. It continues to attract visitors fascinated by its story and design, blending heritage with modern city life. Its preservation and continued use as residential flats highlight the value placed on unique architectural heritage within London’s dynamic urban fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Béla Bartók Memorial
0.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.
37 Thurloe St
0.2 km
Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.
Empire House
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.
Chelsea Old Town Hall
0.8 km
A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.
142 Cromwell Rd
1.1 km
Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.
Cheyne Walk
1.3 km
A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.
Albert Bridge
1.4 km
A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.4 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
The Old Police House
1.6 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Kensington War Memorial
1.6 km
A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.
Royal Artillery Memorial
1.6 km
A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.
Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington
1.7 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.
Wellington Arch
1.7 km
Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.
Queen Elizabeth Gate
1.7 km
A whimsical royal tribute marking the entrance to Hyde Park since 1993.
Speke Monument
1.7 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria and Albert Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of art, design, and fashion at London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum, where creativity meets history in a stunning Victorian setting.
Barts
0.3 km
Discover Barts, Chelsea's chic cocktail bar where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable night out in London.
HTB Onslow Square
0.4 km
A vibrant Anglican church blending tradition with contemporary worship in the heart of South Kensington.
Sussex Mansions
0.4 km
Historic mansion block apartments in vibrant South Kensington, blending classic London charm with cultural richness and urban convenience.
Natural History Museum
0.4 km
Explore 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history through iconic fossils, dazzling exhibits, and tranquil gardens at London’s Natural History Museum.
St Augustine's Church
0.5 km
Discover the striking Gothic Revival beauty and rich Anglo-Catholic heritage of St Augustine's Church in South Kensington, a William Butterfield masterpiece.
Science Museum
0.5 km
Explore London’s iconic Science Museum with interactive exhibits, live demos, and iconic artifacts celebrating scientific achievement.
St Luke's & Christ Church
0.5 km
Discover St Luke's & Christ Church, Chelsea — a historic Gothic Revival Anglican parish blending architectural grandeur with vibrant community spirit.
St Luke’s Gardens
0.6 km
A historic and tranquil Chelsea garden blending Neo-Gothic heritage with vibrant green spaces and family-friendly recreation.
Queen's Tower
0.6 km
Discover the Queen's Tower, a stunning historical landmark in South Kensington, showcasing Victorian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Hole in the Wall
0.6 km
A timeless, authentic London pub near Waterloo station, famed for its hearty ales, no-frills charm, and welcoming local atmosphere.
St Simon Zelotes
0.6 km
Discover the serene blend of evangelical faith and historic Anglican tradition at St Simon Zelotes in the heart of Chelsea, London.
Knightsbridge
0.7 km
Experience the epitome of London luxury in Knightsbridge, where iconic shopping, elegant architecture, and serene green spaces converge.
Imperial Cinema
0.8 km
A cozy, student-centered cinema blending academic culture and entertainment in the heart of South Kensington.
Harrods
0.8 km
Experience the grandeur of London’s largest luxury department store, where over 330 departments and world-class dining await in Knightsbridge.
Essential places to dine
Town House Kensington
0.5 km
Elegant modern British dining with global influences in the heart of South Kensington, offering all-day meals and refined ambiance.
Rabbit
0.7 km
A rustic yet refined modern British bistro on King's Road, celebrating sustainable farm-to-fork dining in the heart of Chelsea.
The Jam
1.0 km
Discover Chelsea’s iconic Italian eatery with quirky treehouse seating and authentic cuisine on King’s Road.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
1.2 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)
1.3 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian fusion restaurant in Chelsea serving fresh, bold flavours in a bright, tropical-inspired setting with creative cocktails.
The Grenadier
1.4 km
Discover The Grenadier, a historic and haunted London pub steeped in military legacy and timeless charm in the heart of Belgravia.
Grato
1.4 km
Cozy Italian dining with handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the tranquil heart of Kensington Square, London.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
1.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
1.5 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zuaya London
1.5 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Dishoom Kensington
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavours and Art Deco charm of Bombay’s iconic Irani cafés at Dishoom Kensington, London’s stylish Indian dining destination.
Akira Restaurant at Japan House London
1.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese elegance and exquisite omakase dining in the heart of Kensington at Akira Restaurant, Japan House London.
The Ivy Kensington Brasserie
1.7 km
Classic British brasserie charm meets lively Kensington atmosphere in this elegant all-day dining hotspot on High Street.
Alexandrie Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
The English Grill
2.0 km
Classic British dining perfected with expertly grilled steaks and seasonal delights in a refined, elegant setting near London’s iconic theatres.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
V&A Shop
0.2 km
Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.
The Natural History Museum Shop
0.4 km
Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.
Science Museum Shop
0.4 km
Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.
Urban Outfitters
1.5 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Jigsaw
1.6 km
Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.
Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique
1.6 km
Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.
London Souvenir Kensington
1.6 km
Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.7 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Good
1.8 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
1.9 km
Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
1.9 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Cool Britannia
2.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Buckingham Palace Shop
2.0 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
the Design Museum Shop
2.1 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
2.1 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K Bar
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.
The Hereford Arms, South Kensington
0.7 km
Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.
The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar
0.8 km
A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.
Bar 190
0.9 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
The Builders Arms
1.3 km
A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.
Stables Bar
1.4 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Evans & Peel Detective Agency
1.4 km
Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.
AMARO BAR - London
1.5 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
Piano Kensington
1.5 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
High Spirit Cocktail Bar
1.6 km
A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.
Prince of Wales
1.6 km
A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
1.8 km
Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.
The Swan, Hyde Park
2.0 km
Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.
Bbar
2.0 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The New York Bar
2.0 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dolce Night Club , London
0.3 km
Elite VIP nightclub in South Kensington blending luxurious design, R&B beats, and high-end cocktails for unforgettable weekend revelry.
B London
0.5 km
Dive into South Kensington's electric nightlife at B London, where sophisticated beats and stylish crowds fuel unforgettable nights from 9pm till dawn.
Metric
0.8 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
2.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
2.3 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.5 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.6 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.
Ricco London
2.8 km
A plush, performance‑led lounge in Kensington Olympia where cocktails, Mediterranean sharers and cabaret create theatrical late‑night nights.
The Scotch of St James
2.8 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Carwash Nightclub
2.9 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 Cuckoo Club
2.9 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Globe
3.2 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Tiger Tiger London
3.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
3.2 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
3.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Quirky
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Selfie Spots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
