Burlington Arcade: London's Historic Luxury Shopping Haven
Step into Burlington Arcade, London’s oldest covered shopping arcade, where Regency elegance meets luxury boutiques and timeless charm in the heart of Mayfair.
Burlington Arcade, opened in 1819, is London’s oldest covered shopping arcade, nestled in the heart of Mayfair at 51 Piccadilly. This elegant, 179-metre-long arcade offers a refined shopping experience with over 40 exclusive boutiques featuring fine jewellery, luxury accessories, and bespoke footwear. Known for its timeless Regency charm, strict etiquette upheld by the iconic Beadles, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the city bustle, it remains a favored destination for discerning shoppers and visitors seeking a glimpse of London’s aristocratic heritage.
A brief summary to Burlington Arcade
- 51 Piccadilly, London, W1J 0QJ, GB
- +442074931764
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter and more relaxed shopping experience away from weekend crowds.
- Look out for the Beadles patrolling the arcade in their traditional uniforms, a unique historic feature.
- Photography for personal use is allowed inside; capture the arcade’s beautiful Regency architecture and boutique displays.
- Combine your visit with nearby luxury shopping on Bond Street and a stroll through Mayfair’s elegant streets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Green Park station, which is approximately a 5-minute walk from Burlington Arcade. The station is well connected and accessible, with step-free access available. Typical journey times from central London stations range from 10 to 20 minutes. A single journey costs around £2.50 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Piccadilly and nearby streets, including routes 14, 19, 22, and 38. Bus stops are within a 5 to 10-minute walk of Burlington Arcade. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and fares are £1.65 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you off directly at 51 Piccadilly. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £20.
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Walking
If you are exploring central London, Burlington Arcade is a pleasant 15 to 25-minute walk from Oxford Street or Regent Street. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Burlington 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 Burlington Arcade
A Regency Gem in the Heart of Mayfair
Burlington Arcade stands as a testament to early 19th-century London elegance, having opened its doors in 1819 by the 1st Earl of Burlington. Originally constructed to protect his garden from passers-by and to offer a dedicated space for fashionable jewellery and fancy goods, the arcade quickly became a symbol of refined taste and exclusivity. Stretching approximately 179 metres, it is one of the longest and oldest covered shopping arcades in England, retaining its Regency architectural charm with a graceful glass roof and polished interiors that evoke a bygone era.Luxury Boutiques and Timeless Elegance
Inside, visitors find a curated collection of over 40 specialist boutiques offering everything from exquisite jewellery and watches to bespoke footwear and fine accessories. The arcade’s shops include heritage brands and contemporary designers, creating a unique blend of tradition and modern luxury. The peaceful ambiance, enhanced by the arcade’s covered design, offers a calm oasis amid the vibrant West End, making it a preferred destination for royalty, celebrities, and London’s elite.The Unique Role of the Burlington Beadles
A distinctive feature of Burlington Arcade is its Beadles, a private police force established to maintain order and decorum. Dressed in traditional frock coats and top hats designed by Henry Poole, the Beadles enforce a strict code of conduct forbidding running, whistling, and other boisterous behavior, preserving the arcade’s tranquil atmosphere. This tradition adds an element of historical continuity and charm, connecting visitors with the arcade’s storied past.Historic Events and Cultural Significance
Over its two centuries, Burlington Arcade has witnessed many notable moments, including a dramatic 1964 robbery involving luxury cars and a large haul of jewellery. The arcade has adapted to modern times while carefully preserving its heritage, occasionally undergoing makeovers for special occasions such as film premieres. It remains a cultural landmark that embodies London’s aristocratic shopping tradition and architectural heritage.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The arcade is fully accessible with step-free entrances and wide walkways accommodating wheelchairs and prams. Visitors can enjoy photography for personal use, and the serene environment invites leisurely exploration. Its central location between Piccadilly Circus and Bond Street makes it an ideal stop for luxury shopping itineraries or a peaceful retreat from busy city streets.Operating Hours and Atmosphere
Burlington Arcade typically opens Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The arcade is gated and closes securely outside these hours, ensuring a safe and exclusive environment. The combination of historic architecture, luxury retail, and the Beadles’ presence creates a unique atmosphere blending tradition with sophistication.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beau Brummell Statue
0.1 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Burlington House
0.1 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
3 Savile Row
0.2 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
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.
St James's Square
0.4 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
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.
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.
St. James's Palace
0.4 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Carlton Gardens
0.5 km
Elegant Regency enclave in London’s St James’s, famed for WWII Free French HQ and serene historic gardens.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Spirit of Soho Mural
0.5 km
Discover the Spirit of Soho Mural, a captivating tribute to London's vibrant culture and artistic heritage in the heart of Soho.
Waterloo Pl
0.5 km
Experience the historic elegance of Waterloo Place in London, where stunning architecture meets vibrant city life in a beautiful urban square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Piccadilly Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Fortnum & Mason
0.1 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.1 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Princes Arcade
0.1 km
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Prestat Chocolates
0.1 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.1 km
Step into London’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic elegance meets exclusive luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.2 km
Discover over 150 years of British chocolate mastery and timeless elegance at Charbonnel et Walker in London’s Royal Arcade.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.2 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
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.
St James's Piccadilly
0.2 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a historic Wren-designed church blending artistic heritage and serene gardens in the heart of London’s vibrant West End.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.2 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.
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.
Jermyn St
0.2 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
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.
The Royal Institution
0.3 km
Explore centuries of groundbreaking science and iconic lectures at London’s historic Royal Institution, home to Faraday’s legacy and the famous Christmas Lectures.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.1 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Golden Lion
0.3 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Great British Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
NOPI
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Kricket Soho
0.4 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
HIDE
0.4 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Mele e Pere
0.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.5 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Bantof
0.5 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
sketch
0.5 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Blacklock Soho
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Wild Honey St James
0.5 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Evelyn's Table
0.6 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.1 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Floris London
0.2 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.
LONGCHAMP
0.4 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.5 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Hamleys
0.5 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
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.
Regent St.
0.5 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Shepherd Market
0.5 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Carnaby St
0.5 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
Machine-A
0.6 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Canvas Collection
0.6 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Liberty
0.6 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival icon blending heritage craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and timeless design in the heart of London’s West End.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.6 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
M&M'S London
0.6 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.4 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 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.
Cahoots London
0.5 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Thin White Duke
0.5 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
0.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
0.6 km
Discover a stylish Mayfair speakeasy blending inventive cocktails, retro charm, and attentive service in London's vibrant Pollen Street scene.
Village Soho
0.6 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Duke Of Wellington
0.6 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.6 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.7 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.7 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Basement Sate
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.7 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Argyll Arms
0.8 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Ku Bar
0.8 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tabu London
0.1 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 Cuckoo Club
0.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
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.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.3 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
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.
Tiger Tiger London
0.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Sunset night club
0.6 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.
TSQ Club
0.7 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.
The Penthouse London
0.7 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
St Moritz Club
0.8 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Carwash Nightclub
0.8 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- 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
- Selfie 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly