Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque at 22 Gladstone Avenue, Feltham
Discover the modest Feltham home where Freddie Mercury’s legendary musical journey began and his legacy is forever commemorated.
The Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque commemorates the legendary Queen frontman’s first London home at 22 Gladstone Avenue, Feltham. Installed by English Heritage in 2016, the plaque marks the house where Mercury lived as a teenager after his family fled Zanzibar in 1964. It was here that he began developing his musical talents and met future bandmates Brian May and Roger Taylor, shaping the early days of Queen’s iconic legacy.
A brief summary to Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
- 22 Gladstone Ave, Feltham, TW14 9LL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the plaque and the quiet residential setting.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Feltham to explore the neighborhood that shaped Mercury’s youth.
- Respect the privacy of current residents as the plaque is on a private home in a residential area.
- Learn about Mercury’s early life and Queen’s history beforehand to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the South Western Railway from London Waterloo to Feltham station, a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes. From Feltham station, a 15-minute walk through residential streets leads to 22 Gladstone Avenue. Note that train services may vary on weekends, and there is no direct bus to the exact address.
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Car
Driving from central London to Feltham takes about 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is limited on Gladstone Avenue, so plan to park on nearby residential streets. Be mindful of local parking restrictions and avoid blocking driveways.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to 22 Gladstone Avenue typically takes 35-50 minutes. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be costly during peak times, with fares estimated between £30-£50.
Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
A Humble Beginning in Feltham
The blue plaque at 22 Gladstone Avenue, Feltham, marks the childhood home of Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara. His family moved to this modest terraced house in 1964 after fleeing the violent revolution in Zanzibar. Mercury was just 17 years old and beginning to explore his musical gifts. This unassuming house witnessed the early formation of his identity as a musician and artist, far from the stadiums where he would later captivate millions.Meeting Future Bandmates and Musical Roots
It was while living here that Mercury met Brian May and Roger Taylor, who would become his Queen bandmates. Brian May fondly recalled spending days at this house listening to Jimi Hendrix on Mercury’s Dansette record player, sharing musical ideas and inspirations. The house became a creative hub during Mercury’s formative years, nurturing the talents that would soon revolutionize rock music.The Blue Plaque and Its Significance
Erected in 2016 by English Heritage, the ceramic blue plaque honors Mercury’s impact as a singer and songwriter. The inscription simply reads: “FREDDIE MERCURY (FRED BULSARA) 1946–1991 Singer and Songwriter lived here.” The plaque serves as a tangible link to Mercury’s early life in London and celebrates his enduring legacy in British music history.Personal Stories and Legacy
Mercury’s mother recalled how he would write music before college, carefully hiding his compositions under his pillow. Despite his flamboyant stage persona, Mercury was known to be private and shy offstage. The Feltham home was a place of both family life and artistic incubation. After moving out around 1970, Mercury continued to visit his parents here, maintaining a connection to his roots.Context Within London’s Blue Plaques
This plaque is part of the broader English Heritage London blue plaques scheme, which links notable figures with the buildings where they lived or worked. Mercury’s plaque stands alongside those commemorating other musical legends, highlighting London’s rich cultural and musical heritage.Enduring Cultural Impact
Freddie Mercury remains one of rock music’s most iconic figures, with songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” still beloved worldwide. The plaque at Feltham offers visitors a quiet, reflective glimpse into the early life of a star who transformed music and popular culture. It is a symbol of humble origins, creative passion, and lasting influence.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
