Maddox Street: A Stylish Mayfair Thoroughfare with Georgian Charm
Where is Maddox Street?
Maddox Street is situated in the
City of Westminster, right in the heart of the distinguished
Mayfair district of Central London. It runs roughly west to east, connecting Regent Street to St George Street, just north of the bustle of
Oxford Street.
How Long is Maddox Street?
Maddox Street is relatively short, measuring approximately
0.2 miles (around 300 metres) in length. Despite its modest size, it packs a notable punch when it comes to character, style, and history.
The History of Maddox Street
Maddox Street was laid out in the early 18th century, during a period of rapid expansion and urban development in the Mayfair area. The street was part of a grid of fashionable new streets constructed following the development of Hanover Square.
The street first appears on maps around the 1720s and has retained much of its historic charm over the centuries.
Who Was Maddox Street Named After?
The street was named after
Sir Benjamin Maddox, a local landowner who was associated with the development of the surrounding area. His name lives on through this elegant stretch of Mayfair, linking him forever with the architectural beauty of central London.
Connecting Roads and Surrounding Streets
Maddox Street links to several important roads and alleyways within Mayfair:
- Regent Street: On its eastern end, Maddox Street meets the curve of Regent Street, one of London's most famous shopping destinations.
- St George Street: To the west, it connects to St George Street and New Bond Street.
- Mill Street and Pollen Street: Small side streets branch off Maddox Street, including these charming lanes filled with boutiques and eateries.
- Grosvenor Street: Elegant artery through Mayfair.
Character and Atmosphere
Maddox Street is quintessentially
Mayfair: stylish, upscale, and slightly tucked away from the larger crowds of Oxford Street and Regent Street. The street has a mixed character, combining elements of:
- Commercial: Offices and creative agencies, especially in the media and design sectors.
- Retail: Independent boutiques, luxury shops, and bespoke tailors.
- Galleries and dining: Art spaces and high-end restaurants dot the street and its surrounds.
Its low-rise Georgian buildings and peaceful feel make it a calm contrast to the hustle just a few streets away.
Notable Buildings and Attractions
Despite its size, Maddox Street has a surprising number of interesting places to see. Highlights include:
- The Maddox Gallery: A contemporary art gallery known for bold exhibitions and modern pieces.
- St George's Church (off Maddox Street): A beautiful baroque-style church on nearby Hanover Square, worth a quick detour.
- Fine dining spots: Several acclaimed restaurants and chic cafes line the street, catering to Mayfair's fashionable crowd.
The architecture along Maddox Street showcases period townhouses, now often converted into showrooms, offices, or private clubs.
Painting of Maddox Street
Nearest London Underground Stations
Maddox Street benefits from proximity to multiple tube stations:
These transport links make Maddox Street highly accessible to both locals and visitors exploring central London.
Fun Fact About Maddox Street
Maddox Street has long been a creative hub, especially in the 20th century. It once housed the headquarters of
Apple Records, the label founded by The Beatles, located at 95 Wigmore Street - just a stone's throw away. The band members often wandered through Maddox Street and the surrounding Mayfair area during the height of their fame.
Another interesting tidbit: Pollen Street, which runs off Maddox Street, is home to the
Pollen Street Social, a Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Jason Atherton - making this a hidden culinary gem in Mayfair.
Conclusion
Maddox Street may be short in length, but it stands tall in prestige and character. From its 18th-century origins to its modern role as a haven for art, design, and fashion, this Mayfair gem embodies the elegance and understated glamour of London's West End. Whether you're browsing boutique galleries, dining in style, or exploring nearby landmarks, Maddox Street is a delightful detour just moments from the capital's busiest retail hubs.
More streets in London
To explore more streets across the capital, visit our Streets in London page, where you'll find an interactive map and a growing list of all the streets we've documented so far.
Map of Streets in London
View all the streets that I have documented on Google Maps in this Map of Streets in London.