The Royal Arcade, London's Oldest Victorian Shopping Gallery
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair at 28 Old Bond Street, The Royal Arcade is London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, dating back to 1879. This elegant, Grade II* listed arcade features a stunning decorative arched roof and stucco façades, housing a curated collection of exclusive independent boutiques and luxury brands. It offers a refined shopping experience steeped in history and timeless charm, connecting Old Bond Street with Albemarle Street in one of the capital’s most prestigious retail districts.
A brief summary to 28 The Royal Arcade
- 28 The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, London, W1S 4BT, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Charbonnel et Walker for exquisite chocolates, a highlight of the arcade’s specialty shops.
- Take time to admire the Victorian architecture, especially the decorative stucco façades and glass arched roof.
- Explore the mix of luxury and independent boutiques for unique shopping finds.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around Mayfair to experience London’s exclusive galleries and historic streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
28 The Royal Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 28 The Royal Arcade
A Historic Gem in London's Prestigious Mayfair
The Royal Arcade stands as a testament to Victorian elegance and London's rich retail heritage. Constructed in 1879, it holds the distinction of being the oldest shopping arcade in the city. Its Grade II* listed status highlights its architectural and historic importance, with ornate stucco façades and a beautifully crafted arched glass roof that floods the interior with natural light. Situated on Old Bond Street, the arcade links this famed luxury shopping street with Albemarle Street, placing it at the center of Mayfair’s exclusive retail scene.Architectural Elegance and Atmosphere
The arcade’s design reflects the Victorian era’s attention to detail and craftsmanship. Visitors are greeted by intricate decorative elements and a sense of grandeur that contrasts with the modern retail environment outside. The glass canopy overhead creates a bright, airy atmosphere, while the arcade’s narrow, intimate passageway encourages leisurely exploration. This unique architectural setting provides a stylish backdrop for the arcade’s collection of specialty shops and luxury boutiques.A Curated Collection of Luxury and Independent Shops
The Royal Arcade hosts around a dozen specialist retailers, including renowned names such as Charbonnel et Walker, the master chocolatier, Ormonde Jayne perfumery, bespoke tailor Paul Smith, and antique specialist Simon Griffin. This mix of high-end brands and independent artisans offers an exclusive shopping experience that reflects the refined tastes of Mayfair’s clientele. Each shop contributes to the arcade’s distinctive character, making it a destination for discerning shoppers and connoisseurs alike.Immersive Shopping Experience in a Bygone Era
Stepping into The Royal Arcade is like entering a different time, where the elegance of the 19th century meets contemporary luxury retail. The arcade’s atmosphere is imbued with a sense of tradition and exclusivity, enhanced by the historic architecture and carefully curated retail offerings. It remains a stylish and atmospheric refuge from the bustling streets outside, inviting visitors to enjoy a slower, more refined pace of shopping.The Royal Arcade’s Place in London’s Cultural Fabric
Beyond retail, The Royal Arcade contributes to the cultural and historic fabric of Mayfair. Its proximity to world-class galleries, luxury hotels, and iconic London landmarks situates it within a vibrant district renowned for art, fashion, and heritage. The arcade itself is a living piece of history, offering a glimpse into Victorian London’s commercial and architectural past while continuing to serve modern shoppers.Visiting and Appreciating The Royal Arcade
While some units can be quiet at times, the arcade’s charm and architectural beauty make it worth a visit for anyone interested in London’s historic shopping culture. The presence of specialty shops, especially the famed chocolate shop Charbonnel et Walker, provides unique highlights. Exploring The Royal Arcade offers an intimate experience that contrasts with larger, more commercial shopping centers, appealing to those who appreciate history, craftsmanship, and luxury retail.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burlington House
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Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
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3 Savile Row
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Beau Brummell Statue
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Ziggy Stardust album cover
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St James's Piccadilly
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Pickering Pl
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Republic of Texas Plaque
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Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
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Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
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225 Piccadilly Circus
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Piccadilly Circus
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St James's Square
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Liberty’s clock
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sprueth Magers Gallery
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Hatchards - Piccadilly
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Explore the literary treasures at Hatchards, London's oldest bookstore in the heart of Piccadilly, offering rare and second-hand books for every avid reader.
Prestat Chocolates
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Berkeley Square
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Experience the serene beauty of Berkeley Square, a historic garden in London, ideal for relaxation and leisure amongst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
White Cube Mason's Yard
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Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
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Masons Yard
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Sotheby's London
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British Tours
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The Red Lion, Mayfair
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Clermont Club
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Golden Square
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Christie's London
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St George's Church, Hanover Square
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Hamleys
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Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
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NOPI
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Francatelli
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Seven Park Place by William Drabble
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sketch
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HIDE
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Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
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Golden Lion
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Kingly Court
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Great British Restaurant
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Bob Bob Ricard Soho
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Kricket Soho
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Mele e Pere
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Little Social
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Bantof
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
28 The Royal Arcade
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Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Burlington Arcade
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Fortnum & Mason
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Piccadilly Arcade
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Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
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Princes Arcade
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A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Bond St
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London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
Floris London
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Jermyn St
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Kingly Ct
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Regent St.
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Black Book
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Elegant
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
