Pall Mall: London's Historic Royal Thoroughfare
Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Pall Mall is a distinguished street in central London, renowned for its rich history dating back to the 17th century. Named after a royal ball game, it was the first street lit by gas and has hosted royalty, explorers, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs. Situated near St James’s Palace and St James’s Park, Pall Mall remains a symbol of aristocratic London with elegant Georgian architecture and a legacy intertwined with British heritage.
A brief summary to Pall Mall
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Look for the blue plaque at 100 Pall Mall marking the site of the world’s first gas-lit street.
- Visit the statue of explorer Robert Falcon Scott outside 116 Pall Mall to appreciate London’s commemorative art.
- Explore the Royal Opera Arcade nearby, reputedly the oldest shopping arcade in the world.
- Notice the elegant Georgian architecture and the historic gentlemen’s clubs that line the street.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Green Park station, approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk to Pall Mall. The station is well-served with frequent trains, and the walk is mostly flat and accessible. No additional cost beyond standard fares applies.
-
Bus
Use London bus routes 9, 14, or 19 which stop near Pall Mall. Travel time varies from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Buses accept contactless payment or Oyster cards, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares ranging from £8 to £15. Note that parking is limited and expensive in the area.
Pall Mall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pall Mall
The Origins of Pall Mall and Its Royal Sporting Heritage
Pall Mall’s name derives from a 17th-century ball game similar to croquet, played with a mallet and ball, popular during the reign of Charles II. The term ‘Pall Mall’ itself originates from the Italian ‘pallamaglio,’ meaning ‘ball mallet.’ This royal pastime took place on the stretch of road between St James’s Park and Trafalgar Square, which later evolved into the street known today. The area’s association with monarchy is longstanding, with the street initially called Catherine Street after Charles II’s queen, though the original name Pall Mall endured and was officially adopted. The street’s proximity to St James’s Palace and the royal park made it a prestigious address from its inception.Architectural Elegance and Notable Residents
Pall Mall is famed for its Georgian architecture and stately homes, many built for aristocrats and courtiers. The southern side of the street remains largely Crown Estate property, with one notable exception: the house once owned by actress Nell Gwyn, Charles II’s mistress, who uniquely secured the freehold. The street also boasts architectural contributions from celebrated figures such as Sir Christopher Wren, whose Marlborough House stands prominently between Pall Mall and The Mall. The Royal Opera Arcade, designed by John Nash, is another historic feature nearby, reputedly the world’s oldest shopping arcade still in existence.A Street of Innovation and Commemoration
Pall Mall holds the distinction of being the first street in the world to be lit by artificial gas lighting, an event commemorated by a blue plaque at 100 Pall Mall. This innovation was introduced by Frederick Winsor in 1807 to celebrate King George III’s birthday. The street also honors British explorer Robert Falcon Scott with a statue outside 116 Pall Mall, commemorating his ill-fated Antarctic expedition. These markers reflect Pall Mall’s blend of cultural, scientific, and historical significance.The Gentlemen’s Clubs and Social Legacy
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Pall Mall became synonymous with exclusive gentlemen’s clubs, many of which continue to operate. Clubs such as the Travellers Club, the Athenaeum, the Reform Club, and the Royal Automobile Club have made Pall Mall a hub of elite social and political life. These institutions contribute to the street’s aura of tradition and exclusivity, attracting members from aristocracy, politics, and the arts.Surrounding Landmarks and Cultural Connections
Pall Mall is bordered by significant London landmarks including St James’s Palace at its western end and the northern edge of Trafalgar Square to the east. The street’s location places it at the heart of London’s cultural and political life, with nearby institutions like the National Gallery and the Royal Academy historically linked to it. The street’s elegant setting and historical depth make it a compelling destination for those interested in London’s royal and architectural heritage.Modern-Day Pall Mall: A Blend of History and Prestige
Today, Pall Mall retains its reputation as a prestigious address, blending its historical legacy with contemporary significance. The street’s elegant facades, historic clubs, and proximity to royal parks continue to attract visitors and residents alike. Its story, from a royal game ground to a symbol of British aristocracy, encapsulates centuries of London’s evolving social and cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St James's Square
0.1 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.1 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.1 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.2 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.2 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.3 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
St. James's Palace
0.3 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.3 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Captain James Cook
0.4 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.4 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Admiralty Arch
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carlton Gardens
0.1 km
Elegant Regency architecture and serene gardens meet rich wartime history in the heart of London’s prestigious Carlton Gardens.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.1 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.1 km
Honoring Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park, the Defender of London during WWII’s Battle of Britain, through a striking bronze statue in central London.
Waterloo Pl
0.2 km
Elegant London street rich with historic monuments, grand architecture, and cultural vibrancy in the heart of St James’s.
Carlton House Terrace
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian terraces on historic royal grounds, showcasing Regency architecture and London’s aristocratic heritage.
Duke of York Column
0.2 km
A towering granite column in London honoring the Duke of York’s military legacy, crowned with a grand bronze statue atop historic Waterloo Place.
The Mall
0.2 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Christie's London
0.2 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
Masons Yard
0.2 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.2 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.2 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
The Queen's Chapel
0.3 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Experience London's historic His Majesty's Theatre, home to iconic musicals and timeless theatrical heritage in the vibrant Haymarket district.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Essential places to dine
Wild Honey St James
0.2 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Golden Lion
0.2 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Quaglino's
0.3 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
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.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Kricket Soho
0.5 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Bantof
0.6 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Mele e Pere
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Blacklock Soho
0.6 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
NOPI
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
J Sheekey
0.7 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Meet Fresh
0.7 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.3 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.4 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Burlington Arcade
0.4 km
Discover a luxurious shopping experience at Burlington Arcade, where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship in the heart of London.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.5 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Crest of London Ltd
0.5 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Cool Britania
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.6 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.6 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.6 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Machine-A
0.6 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Unique Britain
0.6 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.7 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.5 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.5 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Old Shades
0.5 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Thin White Duke
0.6 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
0.6 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Duke Of Wellington
0.7 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
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.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.7 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Two Chairmen
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Disrepute - Soho
0.7 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.
Blind Spot London
0.7 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
Below
0.7 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.2 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
TSQ Club
0.3 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.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Cuckoo Club
0.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
0.5 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 Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.6 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.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.7 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.7 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.
The Box Soho
0.7 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Heaven
0.7 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 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.
Sunset night club
0.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classic Georgian
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly