Cecil Court
Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
Tucked between Charing Cross Road and St Martin’s Lane, Cecil Court is a cobbled pedestrian alleyway steeped in history. Once the heart of early British cinema and a temporary home to Mozart, it’s now famed as Bookseller’s Row, lined with independent bookshops, antique dealers, and quirky boutiques. The street’s Victorian charm, plaques marking its storied past, and vibrant literary atmosphere make it a must-visit for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Cecil Court
- Cecil Ct, London, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful browse through the bookshops.
- Look for the blue plaques marking the street’s historical connections to Mozart and early cinema.
- Don’t miss Watkins Books, the oldest esoteric bookshop in London, for rare and unique finds.
- Take your time exploring the narrow alley; each shop has its own character and hidden gems.
- Check out the street’s connection to Jewish refugee history and the inspiring artwork it inspired.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Leicester Square Underground Station, walk east along Charing Cross Road for about 5 minutes to reach Cecil Court. The street is pedestrian-only and easy to access on foot.
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Public Transport
Take the Northern or Piccadilly line to Leicester Square Underground Station, then follow signs to Charing Cross Road. Cecil Court is a short walk from the station, with clear signage.
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Cycling
Cycle along Charing Cross Road and turn onto Cecil Court. There are cycle racks nearby, but the street itself is pedestrian-only.
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Taxi
A taxi can drop you off at the entrance to Cecil Court on Charing Cross Road. The street is pedestrian-only, so you’ll need to walk the last few meters.
Cecil Court location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cecil Court
A Literary and Cinematic Legacy
Cecil Court’s story begins in the 17th century, but its modern identity was forged in the late Victorian era. The street’s transformation into Bookseller’s Row began before the First World War, with independent booksellers and publishers establishing themselves alongside the burgeoning film industry. Today, the alley is home to over 20 secondhand bookshops, each offering rare finds, first editions, and niche subjects. The oldest, Watkins Books, has occupied its premises since 1901, while the legendary Foyles bookstore once started here before moving to Charing Cross Road. The street’s literary heritage is palpable, with shop windows brimming with vintage maps, children’s books, and esoteric titles.From Mozart to Movie Makers
In 1764, the eight-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived in Cecil Court with his family, lodging with a local barber. Tickets for his first London concerts were sold from the barber’s shop, and it’s believed he composed his first symphony here. The street’s cinematic fame began in 1897, when it became the UK’s first concentration of film-related businesses. Early pioneers like Cecil Hepworth and James Williamson, as well as international companies such as Gaumont and Nordisk, set up offices here, earning Cecil Court the nickname “Flicker Alley.” The street’s role in the birth of British cinema is commemorated by plaques and its enduring presence in film history.A Refuge and a Mystery
Cecil Court has also been a haven for those seeking sanctuary. In the 1930s, it became a well-known meeting place for Jewish refugees, inspiring the artist R.B. Kitaj’s painting now held in the Tate Collection. The street’s history is not without intrigue: in 1961, a murder in one of its shops led to the first use of an ‘identikit’ picture in a British police investigation, marking a landmark in criminal justice. These stories add layers of depth to the street’s character, making it a place where history feels alive.Victorian Charm and Modern Allure
The buildings that line Cecil Court today were laid out in 1894, giving the street its distinctive Victorian charm. The cobbled pavement, narrow alleyway, and historic shopfronts create an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. Despite its small size, the street is a hub of activity, with visitors browsing for rare books, antique maps, and unique souvenirs. The pedestrian-only nature of the street ensures a relaxed, unhurried experience, perfect for exploring at your own pace.Diagon Alley Inspiration
Cecil Court’s magical atmosphere has inspired more than just history and literature. Rumor has it that J.K. Rowling strolled through the street and found inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. The shop windows, filled with curiosities and magical literature, evoke a sense of enchantment that resonates with fans of the wizarding world. Whether you’re a book lover, a history buff, or a fan of Harry Potter, Cecil Court offers a unique blend of charm and intrigue.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cecil Court
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Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
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West End
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Vue Cinema London - West End (Leicester Square)
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National Portrait Gallery
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Edith Cavell Memorial
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Leicester Square
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Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
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New Loon Fung Restaurant
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Clos Maggiore
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Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Meet Fresh
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Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Rules
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Evelyn's Table
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Gauthier Soho
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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La Bodega Negra Restaurant
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Chez Antoinette
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Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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St Martin's Courtyard
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MUJI Covent Garden Store
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The Moomin Shop London
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La Boutik
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Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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Urban Outfitters
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Good
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
