37 Thurloe Street

Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.

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37 Thurloe St

37 Thurloe Street in South Kensington is a historic townhouse located in one of London's most architecturally distinguished neighborhoods. Situated near South Kensington Underground Station and surrounded by world-class museums including the Victoria and Albert Museum, this elegant Victorian-era building exemplifies the refined character of the area. The street itself, originally called Alfred Place, was completed in 1848 as part of the ambitious Thurloe Estate development. Today, the address hosts contemporary cultural and wellness spaces while maintaining its original architectural integrity.

A brief summary to 37 Thurloe St

37 Thurloe St, London, South Kensington, SW7 2LQ, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Luxury
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during weekday mornings to experience the street's quieter character before the afternoon crowds arrive around the nearby museums and Underground station.
Explore the adjacent Thurloe Square's communal gardens and the nearby Yalta Memorial, which offers peaceful respite from the bustling neighborhood.
The street's proximity to South Kensington Station makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and Science Museum.
Discover the famous 'Skinny House' at 5 Thurloe Square, an ingenious Victorian-era building measuring just six feet at its narrowest point, a short walk away.
Dine at the acclaimed Italian restaurants and cafes along the street and surrounding area, which offer everything from casual lunch to fine dining experiences.

Getting There

London Underground

South Kensington Station is located approximately 150 meters south of 37 Thurloe Street, accessible via the District, Circle, and Piccadilly Lines. Journey times vary by destination: to Westminster (3 stops, 8–10 minutes), to King's Cross St Pancras (6 stops, 15–18 minutes), or to Tower Bridge (8 stops, 20–25 minutes). Single fares within London range from £1.75 to £3.40 depending on zones traveled. The station is well-signposted from the street.
Bus Routes

Multiple bus routes serve the area around Thurloe Street, including routes 14, 74, and 345, which stop on nearby Cromwell Road and Exhibition Road. Buses provide connections throughout West London and central London, with typical fares of £1.75 for a single journey within central zones. Service frequency is typically every 5–15 minutes depending on the route and time of day.
Walking from Nearby Landmarks

The Victoria and Albert Museum is a 5–7 minute walk (approximately 400 meters) northeast via Exhibition Road. The Natural History Museum is a 10–12 minute walk (approximately 700 meters) north. Kensington Palace and Hyde Park are accessible via a 15–20 minute walk westward through residential streets. All routes are on level terrain with clear pavements.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing

Licensed black cabs and ride-sharing services (Uber, Bolt) are readily available throughout South Kensington. Typical fares from Thurloe Street to central London destinations range from £8 to £20 depending on destination and time of day. Peak hours (8–9 AM and 5–7 PM weekdays) may result in longer wait times and higher fares.

37 Thurloe St location weather suitability

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Discover more about 37 Thurloe St

A Street Born from Victorian Ambition

Thurloe Street, originally known as Alfred Place West, emerged as part of an ambitious three-decade transformation of South Kensington between 1833 and 1863. The street was completed in 1848, following the earlier development of Thurloe Square and Thurloe Place. This expansion was driven by the vision of Henry Brown Alexander, who inherited the Thurloe Estate—a property that had passed through the hands of notable historical figures, including John Thurloe, Oliver Cromwell's Secretary of State. The street's development reflected the growing wealth and cultural aspirations of Victorian London, attracting well-to-do families and creative professionals to the area.

Architectural Character and Design Heritage

The buildings along Thurloe Street exemplify the elegant neo-classical and Italianate design principles that defined the Thurloe Estate. Designed under the direction of George Basevi, the development introduced a new era in townhouse architecture, with refined proportions, stucco detailing, and distinctive architectural features. The street's harmonious facades create a cohesive visual identity, while individual properties maintain their own character. Number 37 stands as a representative example of this Victorian craftsmanship, reflecting the sophisticated taste of the era and the careful urban planning that shaped South Kensington into a prestigious residential and cultural district.

The Underground and Urban Transformation

The arrival of the Metropolitan District Railway in the 1860s fundamentally altered South Kensington's landscape. South Kensington Station opened in 1868, following the extension of the underground line through the area. This infrastructure project required the demolition of several historic properties, including portions of Thurloe Square. Despite initial opposition from landowners, the underground's arrival ultimately enhanced accessibility to the neighborhood and contributed to its emergence as a cultural hub. The Piccadilly Line followed in 1906, further cementing South Kensington's position as a well-connected destination. Today, the proximity to multiple underground lines makes 37 Thurloe Street easily accessible to visitors and residents alike.

A Hub for Culture and Creativity

South Kensington's transformation into a center for art and science education began in the mid-19th century. The Great Exhibition of 1851, held in Hyde Park, generated profits that funded the construction of major cultural institutions in the neighborhood, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. This cultural investment attracted artists, designers, and intellectuals to the area, establishing South Kensington as London's premier destination for creative and intellectual pursuits. The neighborhood's artistic heritage remains evident today, with galleries, studios, and creative spaces continuing to thrive throughout the district.

Contemporary Uses and Living Heritage

37 Thurloe Street exemplifies how historic properties in South Kensington have been thoughtfully adapted for contemporary use while preserving their architectural significance. The building currently houses modern cultural and wellness enterprises, including luxury aesthetic and lifestyle spaces, reflecting the neighborhood's continued appeal to creative and health-conscious professionals. This adaptive reuse honors the street's artistic legacy while ensuring its continued relevance to contemporary London. The address remains embedded within a vibrant streetscape, surrounded by independent restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural venues that maintain the neighborhood's distinctive character.

Location Within London's Premier District

Thurloe Street occupies a privileged position within South Kensington, one of London's most prestigious neighborhoods. The street's proximity to South Kensington Underground Station provides seamless connections to other parts of the city, while the surrounding area offers an unparalleled concentration of cultural attractions, fine dining, and luxury retail. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets, elegant squares with communal gardens, and harmonious architecture create an atmosphere of distinguished elegance that has remained largely unchanged since the Victorian era. For visitors and residents, 37 Thurloe Street serves as an ideal base for exploring South Kensington's museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

37 Thurloe St

0.0 km

Historic Victorian townhouse in South Kensington's cultural heart, steps from world-class museums and the Underground.

Béla Bartók Memorial

0.1 km

Celebrate the legacy of Béla Bartók, the Hungarian composer and ethnomusicologist, through this evocative bronze memorial in London’s South Kensington.

Empire House

0.4 km

Historic Edwardian landmark in South Kensington offering luxurious apartments near London’s premier cultural and shopping districts.

Chelsea Old Town Hall

0.9 km

A stunning late Victorian neoclassical landmark on King's Road, blending rich history with vibrant cultural and civic life in Chelsea.

142 Cromwell Rd

0.9 km

Historic Victorian office building in prestigious South Kensington, steps from world-class museums and transport hubs.

Cheyne Walk

1.3 km

A historic Chelsea riverside street lined with grand Georgian houses and the former homes of artists, writers, musicians, and political figures.

Norwegian War Memorial

1.4 km

A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.

Kensington War Memorial

1.4 km

A solemn gothic cross memorial honoring Kensington’s fallen soldiers, set beside the historic St Mary Abbots Church.

Albert Bridge

1.5 km

A delicate Victorian marvel spanning the Thames, Albert Bridge enchants with its pastel hues and shimmering lights, linking Chelsea and Battersea in timeless elegance.

The Old Police House

1.6 km

Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.

Speke Monument

1.6 km

A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.

Royal Artillery Memorial

1.8 km

A powerful and realistic tribute to the Royal Artillery’s sacrifice, featuring a monumental stone howitzer and evocative bronze figures at Hyde Park Corner.

Edward Jenner Memorial

1.8 km

Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.

Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington

1.8 km

Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military triumphs and contributions to London’s cityscape, unveiled in 1844.

Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington

Wellington Arch

1.8 km

Discover Wellington Arch, London's majestic neoclassical triumphal arch with rich history, stunning views, and iconic Quadriga sculpture.

1.8 km

Authentic Northern Italian dining with family warmth and timeless charm in the heart of Kensington.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Natural History Museum Shop

0.2 km

Discover nature’s wonders through unique gifts and souvenirs at the Natural History Museum Shop in London’s iconic museum.

V&A Shop

0.2 km

Discover art-inspired gifts and unique keepsakes at the V&A Shop, nestled within London’s renowned Victoria and Albert Museum.

Science Museum Shop

0.3 km

Ignite curiosity with science-inspired gifts, gadgets, and toys at this inventive shop inside London's Science Museum – perfect for all ages.

Urban Outfitters

1.4 km

Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.

Jigsaw

1.4 km

Refined British womenswear on Kensington High Street, where timeless tailoring meets contemporary elegance in a stylish boutique haven.

London Souvenir Kensington

1.4 km

Kensington High Street's go-to for authentic London souvenirs: red buses, royal trinkets, and Union Jack delights in a shopper's paradise.

Kensington Palace Shop

1.5 km

Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.

Good

1.6 km

Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.

Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street

1.7 km

Unearth ethical treasures on Kensington High Street at this vibrant Oxfam shop, where second-hand style funds global change amid London's posh shopping scene.

Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique

1.8 km

Discover stylish, affordable sustainable fashion at Pop London, a boutique blending ethical design with community spirit in the heart of London.

Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique

the Design Museum Shop

1.9 km

Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.

the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop

1.9 km

Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.

the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop

Octavia Foundation - Kensington

1.9 km

Discover designer bargains and vintage treasures at this Kensington High Street charity shop, funding life-changing support for local communities in true Octavia Hill spirit.

Hard Rock London Rock Shop

2.0 km

Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.

The London Shop

2.1 km

Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

K Bar

0.3 km

Sophisticated South Kensington cocktail haven blending innovative mixology, gem-inspired elixirs, and plush club-like elegance for unforgettable evenings.

The Hereford Arms, South Kensington

0.5 km

Victorian South Kensington pub pouring Fuller's ales, serving refined classics like cod and cottage pie amid Hitchcock charm and Ripper lore.

The Owl and Monkey Cocktail Bar

0.6 km

A stylish South Kensington cocktail bar blending tropical design, sustainable mixology, and warm hospitality for memorable nights.

Bar 190

0.7 km

Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.

The Builders Arms

1.1 km

A classic Kensington pub with cosy period character, modern British comfort food and a lively, neighbourhood atmosphere.

Stables Bar

1.2 km

Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.

Evans & Peel Detective Agency

1.3 km

Step into a secret 1920s detective office for immersive cocktails, live jazz, and a playful mystery-solving speakeasy experience in London’s Earl’s Court.

AMARO BAR - London

1.3 km

Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.

Piano Kensington

1.3 km

Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.

High Spirit Cocktail Bar

1.4 km

A friendly, compact cocktail bar on Kensington High Street serving well-made classics and creative seasonal drinks in a warm, music-led setting.

Prince of Wales

1.4 km

A cosy Kensington pub of warm wood, classic pints and a surprising Thai menu tucked behind a Victorian façade.

The Swan, Hyde Park

1.9 km

Historic coaching inn turned vibrant pub overlooking Hyde Park, blending rich London heritage with classic British dining and lively social scenes.

The Churchill Arms, Kensington

2.0 km

London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.

The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)

2.0 km

Affordable hostel living meets classic British pub culture in the heart of Pimlico, steps from Victoria Station and London’s iconic sights.

The Victoria, Paddington

2.1 km

Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.

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37 Thurloe Street

A brief summary to 37 Thurloe St

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

London Underground

Bus Routes

Walking from Nearby Landmarks

Taxi and Ride-Sharing

37 Thurloe St location weather suitability

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Discover more about 37 Thurloe St

A Street Born from Victorian Ambition

Architectural Character and Design Heritage

The Underground and Urban Transformation

A Hub for Culture and Creativity

Contemporary Uses and Living Heritage

Location Within London's Premier District

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

37 Thurloe St

Béla Bartók Memorial

Empire House

Chelsea Old Town Hall

142 Cromwell Rd

Cheyne Walk

Norwegian War Memorial

Kensington War Memorial

Albert Bridge

The Old Police House

Speke Monument

Royal Artillery Memorial

Edward Jenner Memorial

Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington

Wellington Arch

Unmissable attractions to see

Sussex Mansions

Victoria and Albert Museum

Natural History Museum

St Augustine's Church

HTB Onslow Square

Science Museum

Queen's Tower

Barts

St Luke's & Christ Church

The Hole in the Wall

Imperial Cinema

St Luke’s Gardens

Royal Albert Hall

St Simon Zelotes

Knightsbridge

Essential places to dine

Town House Kensington

Rabbit

The Jam

Ollie's House Restaurant (Chelsea)

Grato

Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington

Zuaya London

Dishoom Kensington

Akira Restaurant at Japan House London

The Ivy Kensington Brasserie

The Grenadier

Alexandrie Restaurant

Il Portico

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Natural History Museum Shop

V&A Shop

Science Museum Shop

Urban Outfitters

Jigsaw

London Souvenir Kensington

Kensington Palace Shop

Good

Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street

Pop London - Sustainable Fashion Boutique