Cockpit Steps: London's Historic Passageway with a Haunting Past
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
Cockpit Steps is a narrow, historic passageway in central London linking Birdcage Walk and Old Queen Street. It is the last remnant of the 18th-century Royal Cockpit, a venue where aristocrats once gathered to watch and bet on cockfights. The steps are steeped in history and folklore, including tales of a headless ghostly woman. Today, the Grade II listed steps offer a quiet, atmospheric route near Westminster's iconic landmarks and St James’s Park.
A brief summary to Cockpit Steps
- London, SW1H 9HP, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late evening for a quieter, more atmospheric experience with fewer passersby.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby St James’s Park to enjoy scenic greenery and iconic London views.
- Look closely at the brickwork for historic graffiti and architectural details that hint at the steps’ long history.
- Bring a camera to capture the narrow, winding stairs framed by classic London architecture and soft natural light.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to St James’s Park Station (District and Circle lines), then walk approximately 5 minutes through Birdcage Walk to reach Cockpit Steps. Tube services run frequently with fares starting around £2.50 with an Oyster or contactless card.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes, including numbers 11, 24, and 148, stop near Birdcage Walk. From the bus stop, it is a short 3-5 minute walk to Cockpit Steps. Bus fares are similar to tube fares and payment is by Oyster or contactless.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Westminster or St James’s area, Cockpit Steps is accessible on foot via paved streets. The terrain includes some steps and slight inclines, suitable for most walkers but not wheelchair accessible.
Cockpit Steps location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cockpit Steps
Legacy of the Royal Cockpit
Cockpit Steps preserve the memory of the Royal Cockpit, an 18th-century arena built for the elite to watch cockfighting, a popular but brutal sport with deep roots in Tudor England. This venue charged a five-shilling admission, attracting aristocrats and gentlemen who bet on meticulously regulated matches. Cockfighting introduced early sporting rules and was a social event mixing different classes, though the Royal Cockpit was more exclusive. The building was demolished by 1816, leaving only the curved staircase that now serves as a hidden pedestrian passage between Birdcage Walk and Old Queen Street.Atmosphere and Architecture
The steps themselves are steep and narrow, winding through a quiet corner of Westminster. Their Grade II listing recognizes their historical importance as a rare surviving fragment of London’s sporting and social past. The brickwork around the steps is worn with age, bearing faint graffiti and echoes of centuries of footsteps. The passage offers a sense of stepping back in time, contrasting with the bustling streets nearby and providing a secretive, almost secluded atmosphere.Ghostly Legends and Local Lore
Cockpit Steps is famously reputed to be haunted by a headless woman in a red dress. The earliest recorded sighting in 1804 involved Coldstream Guards who reported seeing the apparition descending the steps. The ghost story has persisted through the centuries, with a notable 1972 incident where a motorist claimed to swerve to avoid the spectral figure, resulting in a collision with a lamp post. These tales add a mysterious and eerie dimension to the site, captivating visitors intrigued by London's supernatural folklore.Context Within Westminster
Nestled near St James’s Park and close to the Palace of Westminster, Cockpit Steps lies amid some of London’s most iconic landmarks. The area is steeped in royal and political history, with nearby sites including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament. Despite its central location, the steps remain a quiet, often overlooked gem, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's tourist crowds and a glimpse into London’s layered past.Visiting Experience and Surroundings
Walking down Cockpit Steps invites visitors to reflect on the stark contrast between past and present—from the brutal sport once held here to the serene green spaces nearby. The passageway’s intimate scale encourages a slower pace, ideal for photography or quiet contemplation. The proximity to St James’s Park adds natural beauty, while the surrounding architecture showcases classic London styles, blending history with the modern cityscape.Preservation and Cultural Significance
As a Grade II listed site, Cockpit Steps is protected for its cultural and historical value. It stands as a tangible link to London’s sporting heritage and social history, embodying stories of class, sport, and superstition. The steps remind visitors of the city’s evolving urban fabric, where hidden corners preserve narratives often forgotten amid grander landmarks. This unique blend of history and mystery makes Cockpit Steps a compelling stop for those exploring Westminster’s rich tapestry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cockpit Steps
0.0 km
Discover Cockpit Steps, a hidden historic passage in Westminster where London’s royal cockfighting past meets ghostly legend and quiet charm.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.2 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Clive Steps
0.2 km
A Grade II-listed bronze statue commemorating the controversial architect of British imperial power in India.
Clive of India Memorial
0.2 km
A towering Edwardian statue in London commemorating Robert Clive, founder of British rule in India, embodying imperial triumph and controversy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.3 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
King Charles Street Arch
0.4 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
King Charles Street
0.4 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
10 Downing St
0.4 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
10 Downing Street
0.4 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Guards Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the Guardsmen who fell in World War I, set amidst London’s historic ceremonial heart.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.4 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
The Cenotaph
0.4 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
Statue of George V
0.4 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
Westminster Hall
0.4 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
The Women of World War II
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
Unmissable attractions to see
Churchill War Rooms
0.2 km
Britain's secret wartime headquarters where Churchill directed the fight against Nazi tyranny from underground bunkers beneath Westminster.
The Sanctuary
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Westminster, with cozy rooms, a classic pub, and sustainable hospitality.
The Supreme Court
0.3 km
Explore the UK's highest court in a stunning neo-Gothic building at the heart of London’s political and judicial district.
St James's Park
0.3 km
London’s oldest Royal Park, a serene green oasis with iconic palace views, historic charm, and a famous pelican colony in the city center.
The Royal Military Chapel (The Guards’ Chapel)
0.3 km
A modernist military chapel in London, blending solemn remembrance with rich history and striking architecture.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.3 km
A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
The Guards Museum
0.3 km
Explore centuries of British military history through the iconic Foot Guards’ uniforms, artifacts, and stories at Wellington Barracks’ Guards Museum.
Dean's Yard
0.3 km
A historic, tranquil green courtyard nestled within Westminster Abbey’s precincts, blending monastic heritage with collegiate charm.
Parliament Sq
0.3 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Parliament Square Garden
0.4 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
Westminster Abbey
0.4 km
Discover the majestic Gothic abbey where British monarchs have been crowned since 1066 and history echoes through every stone.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.4 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
St Margaret's Church
0.4 km
Explore the serene St Margaret's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, next to Westminster Abbey, rich in history and stunning architecture.
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
0.4 km
A serene 7-mile circular walk through London's Royal Parks, honoring Princess Diana’s life, legacy, and connection to iconic royal landmarks.
The Mall
0.4 km
A majestic royal avenue in London, The Mall connects Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace with regal charm and historic grandeur.
Essential places to dine
The Pem
0.2 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Caxton Grill
0.3 km
Refined British grill cuisine with fresh rooftop garden produce in a relaxed Westminster setting inside St Ermin’s Hotel.
Chez Antoinette Victoria
0.4 km
Authentic French bistro in London’s Victoria offering classic Lyonnais and Parisian dishes in a cozy, Parisian-style setting.
Colosseo Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s Victoria at Colosseo Restaurant.
Ma La Sichuan
0.5 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mio Restaurant & Bar
0.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in this cozy central London gem with generous portions and great value.
Osteria dell'Angolo
0.6 km
Classic Italian flavors and fresh pasta in a warm, elegant Westminster setting with attentive service and a visible kitchen.
Golden Lion
0.7 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.7 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Sapori
0.7 km
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine with generous portions and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Westminster, London.
Wild Honey St James
0.7 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Great British Restaurant
0.7 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Bill's Victoria Restaurant
0.8 km
A vibrant British eatery near Victoria Station offering hearty classics, sharing plates, and plant-based dishes in a cozy, casual setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.8 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
The Garden
0.8 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.3 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.4 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.4 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.7 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
Lock & Co. Hatters
0.7 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
John Lobb St. James
0.7 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Crest of London Ltd
0.7 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
The Queen's Shop
0.8 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Cardinal Place
0.8 km
Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at Cardinal Place, London’s vibrant commercial hub near Victoria Station.
Buckingham Palace Shop
0.8 km
Official royal souvenirs at the palace gates: chinaware, gifts, and memorabilia that bring Buckingham Palace's grandeur home with you. (162 characters)
Browns of London
0.8 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Cool Britannia
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and vintage photography moments just steps from Buckingham Palace in a lively and welcoming shop.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.9 km
London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Floris London
0.9 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.9 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Two Chairmen
0.0 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Westminster Arms
0.1 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
Blue Boar Pub
0.2 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Adam & Eve
0.3 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.4 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
All Bar One Victoria
0.5 km
Sophisticated wines, global bites, and lively vibes on Victoria Street – London's go-to for stylish drinks and casual feasts near Westminster's heart.
The Spy Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Old Shades
0.7 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
The New York Bar
0.9 km
A polished hotel lounge opposite Buckingham Palace — handcrafted cocktails, tasting events and piano-accompanied afternoons in plush, traditional surroundings.
Bbar
0.9 km
Chic Victoria cocktail bar beneath a living wall, blending South African zest with inventive drinks, hearty bites, and unforgettable afternoon teas near Buckingham Palace.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.9 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Le Champagne Bar
0.9 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Gordon's Wine Bar
1.0 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
1.0 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Quirky
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
