Bayswater Road, London W2 - Gateway to Hyde Park and the West End
Introduction to Bayswater Road
Bayswater Road is a prominent thoroughfare in the City of Westminster, central London, forming part of the boundary between Hyde Park and the residential neighbourhood of Bayswater.Stretching for approximately 1.4 miles (2.25 km), the road runs in an east-west direction and serves as an important link between central London and the western districts.
History and Origins
The origins of Bayswater Road date back centuries, forming part of the old route from London to Uxbridge and Oxford. It evolved from a rural track in the 18th century to a fashionable Georgian and Victorian-era road as development expanded westward.Bayswater Road was laid out more formally during the early 19th century, coinciding with the growth of London's suburbs and the transformation of Hyde Park into a landscaped public park.
Map of Bayswater Road, London
How Bayswater Road Got Its Name
The name "Bayswater" likely derives from the term "Bayard's Watering Place," referring to a spring or horse-watering spot on the west side of Hyde Park. Over time, the name was simplified and applied to the surrounding area, eventually giving its name to the road.Where It Begins and Ends
At its eastern end, Bayswater Road begins at Cumberland Gate, which is adjacent to Marble Arch, a major London landmark and traffic junction.To the west, it transitions into Notting Hill Gate, another notable street that continues toward Holland Park and Kensington.
Connected Roads and the A402
Bayswater Road is designated as part of the A402, a route that continues west through Notting Hill Gate and on to Shepherd's Bush.It also connects to various intersecting roads, including:
- Gloucester Terrace
- Lancaster Terrace
- Queensway
- Porchester Terrace
- Palace Court
- St. Petersburgh Place
Hyde Park Place, which runs east from Lancaster Terrace to Cumberland Gate, is effectively a continuation of Bayswater Road but is technically a separate named segment. Wellington Terrace is a very short street just off Notting Hill Gate. It is not a stretch of Bayswater Road, but it runs close to its western end.
Character and Atmosphere
Bayswater Road offers a unique blend of urban life, natural beauty, and historical character. The southern side of the road faces Hyde Park, offering lush greenery and open space, while the northern side is lined with Victorian mansions, residential flats, embassies, and occasional hotels.The road has a relatively quiet residential character, particularly in contrast to the more commercialised areas nearby. That said, its proximity to Oxford Street, Paddington, and Notting Hill gives it a dynamic and diverse atmosphere.
Painting of Bayswater Road View full-size image
Notable Sights and Landmarks
There are several points of interest along Bayswater Road that make it appealing for both locals and visitors:- Hyde Park: One of London's most iconic green spaces, with entrances directly opposite the road.
- The Italian Gardens: A historic ornamental water garden at the northeastern corner of Kensington Gardens.
- Speakers' Corner: Located near Marble Arch, this area is famous for free speech and public debate.
- St George's Hotel: A classic hotel overlooking Hyde Park.
- Colonnades: A prominent 1960s-era residential building on the north side of the road.
- Bayswater Road Art Exhibition: On Sundays, local artists display their work on the park railings - the largest regular open-air art show in the UK.
Nearest London Underground Stations
Several Underground stations are located close to or along Bayswater Road, making it easily accessible:- Queensway Station - Served by the Central line, located near the intersection with Queensway.
- Lancaster Gate Station - Also on the Central line, just east of Queensway, convenient for the park and northern Paddington area.
- Notting Hill Gate Station - Served by the Central, Circle and District lines, situated at the road's western end.
- Marble Arch Station - On the Central line, right by the eastern end of Bayswater Road and Marble Arch.