Sicilian Avenue: London's Edwardian Pedestrian Oasis
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Sicilian Avenue is a Grade II listed Edwardian pedestrianized shopping street in Holborn, London, known for its distinctive neo-classical architecture featuring Ionic colonnades, terracotta dressings, and Italian marble accents. Designed by Robert Worley and completed in 1910, it offers a charming mix of shops and eateries tucked within historic red brick and white terracotta buildings, creating a serene Mediterranean-inspired retreat in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Sicilian Avenue
- 7 Sicilian Ave, London, WC1A 2QR, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Look up to admire the intricate terracotta dressings and Ionic columns that frame the avenue’s entrances.
- Visit in summer to enjoy the floral-lined walkways that enhance the avenue’s Mediterranean feel.
- Explore the small independent shops and eateries, including a branch of the Spaghetti House chain.
- Note the preserved section of original Italian marble paving near the avenue’s entrances.
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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Underground
Take the London Underground to Holborn Station, served by the Central and Piccadilly lines. From there, it’s a 5-7 minute walk to Sicilian Avenue. The station is well connected and accessible, with step-free access available. Typical fare ranges from £2.40 to £6.00 depending on travel zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near Sicilian Avenue, including routes 8, 25, and 242, connecting from various parts of central London. Bus journeys typically take 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75 per trip.
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Walking
If you are near the British Museum or Bloomsbury, walking to Sicilian Avenue is a pleasant option, taking approximately 6-10 minutes over flat, paved streets suitable for most mobility levels.
Sicilian Avenue 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 Sicilian Avenue
Architectural Elegance in the Heart of London
Sicilian Avenue stands as a unique Edwardian architectural gem nestled between Southampton Row and Bloomsbury Way in central London. Designed by architect Robert Worley and completed in 1910, the avenue showcases a Baroque Revival style with strong neo-classical influences. Its most striking features are the two grand colonnades of Ionic columns that frame the entrances, each supporting elaborate balustrades and ornate urns. The buildings lining the avenue are crafted from red brick with white terracotta dressings, adorned with engaged composite order columns and terracotta bands, reflecting a refined Italianate aesthetic.A Pedestrianized Shopping Haven with Historical Roots
Conceived as one of London’s earliest pedestrianized shopping streets, Sicilian Avenue was built on land cleared to widen the A40 and replaced older 17th-century shops and houses. Originally paved with Italian marble, much of which was replaced in the 1920s, the avenue retains a small section of this marble as a nod to its heritage. Today, it remains a tranquil shopping arcade featuring a variety of businesses, including charming bookshops and restaurants, some with Italian influences, though none specifically Sicilian. The avenue’s pedestrian-only design offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of the surrounding Holborn and Bloomsbury districts.Atmosphere and Cultural Significance
Sicilian Avenue exudes an old-world Italian charm, especially in summer when flowers and greenery line the walkway. Its serene ambiance and architectural beauty have made it a favored location for film shoots, including scenes from "Wonder Woman" and "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society." The avenue’s design has also been recognized as an early example of urban walkability, inspiring contemporary pedestrian-friendly developments. Its proximity to major cultural landmarks like the British Museum enhances its appeal as a quiet retreat amid London’s vibrant cityscape.Recent Developments and Preservation Efforts
In recent years, Sicilian Avenue has undergone careful restoration and redevelopment to preserve its historic character while adapting to modern uses. The area is part of the Holborn Links Estate, purchased in 2020 for significant investment aimed at refurbishing key buildings such as Vernon and Sicilian House. These efforts ensure that Sicilian Avenue continues to thrive as a heritage site and a functional urban space, blending history with contemporary city life.Distinctive Features and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Sicilian Avenue are greeted by the avenue’s signature colonnades, with the name elegantly inscribed in gold serif capitals on the friezes. The avenue’s open-air arcade design allows natural light to illuminate the intricate stone facades and terracotta details. Above the commercial ground floors, the upper levels once served as residential apartments but now accommodate office spaces, maintaining the avenue’s mixed-use character. The peaceful pedestrian zone invites leisurely strolls, with plenty of opportunities to admire the craftsmanship and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.Legacy and Urban Impact
Sicilian Avenue remains a testament to early 20th-century urban design that prioritized pedestrian accessibility and aesthetic appeal. Its Mediterranean-inspired style offers a distinctive contrast to typical London streetscapes, providing a cultural and architectural landmark that enriches the city’s historic fabric. As a Grade II listed site, it preserves a slice of Edwardian elegance and continues to inspire appreciation for thoughtful, human-centered urban environments.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
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Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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London Guided Walks
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Essential places to dine
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Margot
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Circus
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Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Inamo Covent Garden
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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
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Balthazar
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Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Punch & Judy
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Chez Antoinette
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Noble Rot Soho
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Good
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Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Urban Outfitters
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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
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Proud Late
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Versity Camp Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
