Sicilian Avenue: London's Edwardian Pedestrian Oasis
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending historic Italian-inspired architecture with modern shops and calm charm.
Sicilian Avenue is a charming, Grade II listed Edwardian pedestrianised avenue located in Holborn, London. Designed by architect Robert Worley and completed in 1910, it features neo-classical architecture with Italian marble, ornate Ionic colonnades, and terracotta details. This serene shopping arcade offers a unique blend of historic elegance and contemporary shops and eateries, providing visitors with a tranquil urban escape near the British Museum.
A brief summary to Sicilian Avenue
- 7 Sicilian Ave, London, WC1A 2QR, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Look up to admire the intricate Ionic colonnades and terracotta details that define Sicilian Avenue’s unique Edwardian architecture.
- Visit in summer to enjoy the flower-lined walkway and the avenue’s charming Mediterranean ambiance.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby British Museum, just a short walk away.
- Explore the variety of shops and eateries, including second-hand bookshops and Italian-inspired restaurants.
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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Underground
Take the London Underground to Holborn Station, served by the Central and Piccadilly lines. From there, it is a 5 to 7-minute walk to Sicilian Avenue. The station is well connected with frequent service and step-free access available at Holborn.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Holborn and Bloomsbury Way, including routes 8, 25, and 242. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a journey time of 15 to 25 minutes from central London areas. Note that traffic can affect timings during peak hours.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off near Sicilian Avenue on Southampton Row or Bloomsbury Way. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is limited and mostly restricted in this busy central London area.
Sicilian Avenue location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Sicilian Avenue
An Architectural Gem in the Heart of London
Sicilian Avenue stands as a distinctive Edwardian pedestrianised street nestled between Southampton Row and Bloomsbury Way in Holborn. Designed by Robert Worley and completed in 1910, the avenue showcases a Baroque Revival style infused with neo-classical elements rather than Sicilian Baroque. Its most striking features are the two grand colonnades of Ionic columns at each end, supporting balustrades and ornate urns, with the avenue’s name inscribed in gold serif capitals. The buildings lining the avenue share a cohesive design language, with engaged composite order columns and terracotta bands adding texture and elegance to the red brick facades.A Mediterranean-Inspired Urban Retreat
Conceived as one of London’s earliest pedestrianised shopping streets, Sicilian Avenue was intended to offer a Mediterranean-style escape from the bustle of the city. Originally paved with Italian marble—which was mostly replaced in the 1920s—a small section remains as a nod to its luxurious past. The avenue’s layout, with its narrow, flower-lined walkway and the Edwardian mansions above, evokes an old-world Italian atmosphere, especially in summer when the greenery and sunlight enhance its charm. This oasis of calm contrasts with the surrounding busy urban environment, making it a favored spot for leisurely strolls and quiet enjoyment.Historic Evolution and Contemporary Use
Before its redevelopment, the site contained 17th-century shops and houses, cleared to widen the A40 road. The Bedford Estate commissioned the avenue’s construction, which transformed the area into a pedestrian-friendly shopping parade. While originally the upper floors served as residential apartments, they have since been converted into office spaces. Today, Sicilian Avenue hosts a variety of businesses including second-hand bookshops, restaurants, and cafes, though none have direct Sicilian ties. The avenue remains a peaceful yet vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike, blending heritage with modern urban life.Cultural Significance and Media Presence
Sicilian Avenue’s unique architecture and atmosphere have made it a sought-after filming location, featuring in productions such as the 2018 film "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society," the 2017 "Wonder Woman" movie, and the Apple TV series "Slow Horses." Its preservation as a Grade II listed site underscores its importance in London’s architectural and cultural heritage. Recent redevelopment efforts aim to maintain its historic character while enhancing its role as a pedestrian-friendly urban space, reflecting 21st-century values of walkability and heritage conservation.Experience and Atmosphere
Walking through Sicilian Avenue, visitors encounter a harmonious blend of historic grandeur and everyday urban life. The avenue’s ornate stone facades, intricate carvings, and classical motifs invite admiration upward, while the ground floor’s shops and eateries offer a welcoming, relaxed environment. The avenue’s pedestrian-only status ensures a tranquil ambience, making it a perfect spot for a quiet lunch break or a leisurely browse. Its proximity to landmarks like the British Museum adds to its appeal as a serene yet accessible London gem.Preservation and Future Outlook
In 2020, the Holborn Links Estate, including Sicilian Avenue, was acquired by an investment fund committed to its careful redevelopment. The ongoing refurbishment aims to preserve the avenue’s Edwardian elegance and architectural details, ensuring that Sicilian Avenue remains a cherished historic and cultural landmark. As urban spaces increasingly prioritize walkability and heritage, Sicilian Avenue stands as a testament to early 20th-century urban design that continues to inspire and delight.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
