Princes Arcade, London's Elegant Shopping Passage
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Princes Arcade is a charming shopping arcade in central London, linking Piccadilly and Jermyn Street. Built between 1929 and 1933 within the historic Princes House, it blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary menswear brands, offering a refined retail experience in the heart of the city’s luxury shopping district.
A brief summary to Princes Arcade
- 196 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9DY, GB
- +442074848152
- 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 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more personalized service.
- Explore both traditional shoemakers and innovative sustainable menswear brands within the arcade.
- Combine your visit with nearby luxury arcades and iconic shopping streets like Jermyn Street and Piccadilly.
- Check opening hours as some shops may close earlier on Sundays.
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 about a 7 to 10-minute walk from Princes Arcade. The station is well-connected and accessible, with frequent service. Expect a fare around £2.50–£5 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Piccadilly, including routes 9, 14, and 19. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with travel times varying from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. A contactless payment card or Oyster card is recommended for fares around £1.75–£2.50.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more costly, generally £10–£20.
Princes Arcade location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Princes Arcade
A Historic Passageway in London’s Shopping Heritage
Princes Arcade occupies a distinctive place in London’s retail landscape, nestled within Princes House at 196 Piccadilly. Originally known as Princes Hall, this building opened in 1883 as the home of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, embedding a creative legacy into its foundations. The arcade itself was constructed between 1929 and 1933 to provide a covered pedestrian link between the bustling thoroughfares of Piccadilly and Jermyn Street, two of London’s most prestigious shopping streets.A Blend of Tradition and Modernity in Retail
Today, Princes Arcade offers an eclectic mix of shops that reflect both the heritage and innovation of British menswear and accessories. Traditional brands like Loake Shoemakers, renowned for their handcrafted footwear, sit alongside newer, sustainable fashion labels such as SIRPLUS, which creates quality menswear from surplus fabrics. This fusion of old and new creates a shopping experience that honors craftsmanship while embracing contemporary ethical practices.The Arcade’s Architectural and Cultural Ambience
The arcade’s design evokes the elegance of early 20th-century London arcades, with its intimate, covered passageway providing shelter from the city’s often unpredictable weather. Its location within the St James’s area places it among a network of historic arcades celebrated for their refined atmosphere and luxury offerings. Though more understated than some of London’s grander arcades, Princes Arcade retains a quiet charm and exclusivity that appeals to discerning shoppers and visitors.Connection to London’s Luxury Shopping Traditions
Princes Arcade is part of a rich tradition of London arcades that began in the early 19th century, inspired by Parisian models. These arcades were designed as elegant, protected environments for shopping, combining architectural beauty with commercial activity. Princes Arcade continues this legacy by hosting a curated selection of retailers that emphasize quality, style, and British heritage, contributing to the enduring appeal of the St James’s shopping district.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Princes Arcade can enjoy a relaxed and intimate shopping environment, sheltered from the city’s hustle. The arcade’s compact scale encourages leisurely browsing, with a focus on personalized service and artisanal products. Its blend of classic and contemporary brands makes it a destination for those seeking unique menswear, fine footwear, and thoughtful design in a setting rich with history.Preserving a Distinctive Urban Character
While modern retail developments have transformed much of London, Princes Arcade preserves the character of the traditional shopping arcade. It stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to maintaining spaces that combine heritage, craftsmanship, and modern retail innovation. This balance ensures that Princes Arcade remains a valued part of London’s cultural and commercial fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St James's Piccadilly
0.1 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.1 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Burlington House
0.2 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.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
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.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 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
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 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 Square
0.3 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
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.
Pall Mall
0.3 km
Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Savile Row
0.4 km
Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Unmissable attractions to see
Prestat Chocolates
0.0 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.0 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Fortnum & Mason
0.1 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
St James's Piccadilly
0.1 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
0.1 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.
Jermyn St
0.1 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.1 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.1 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Masons Yard
0.1 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.
Burlington Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
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.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant crossroads of London’s West End where iconic lights, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment converge.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.3 km
Step into London’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic elegance meets exclusive luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Lillywhites
0.3 km
London's premier sporting goods store on Regent Street, offering top brands and expert gear for every athlete and sports enthusiast.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.2 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
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.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
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.
Francatelli
0.3 km
A refined British restaurant in Mayfair, inspired by Queen Victoria’s chef and reimagined by a Michelin-starred executive chef.
NOPI
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
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.
Bantof
0.4 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Blacklock Soho
0.4 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.4 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Evelyn's Table
0.4 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Kingly Court
0.4 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.5 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.1 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.2 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.4 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Kingly Ct
0.4 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Machine-A
0.5 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Bond St
0.5 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
Hamleys
0.5 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
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.
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.
Carnaby St
0.5 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
LONGCHAMP
0.5 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Regent St.
0.5 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.5 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
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.
Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
0.4 km
A stylish Soho basement bar blending 1960s glamour, expert cocktails, and intimate luxury in the heart of London’s nightlife.
Duke of Argyll
0.4 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Cahoots London
0.4 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
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.
Duke Of Wellington
0.5 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.5 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Below
0.5 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
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.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.6 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.6 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
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.
Basement Sate
0.6 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
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
