Gerrard Street, London
The Heart of London's Chinatown
A Historic and Lively Centrepiece in London’s Chinatown
Gerrard Street stands as the beating heart of London's Chinatown, filled with the aromas of authentic Asian cuisine, striking architecture, and vibrant cultural energy. It is not only a feast for the senses but also a place layered with fascinating history.Where is Gerrard Street?
Gerrard Street is located in the City of Westminster, right in the heart of the Soho district. It forms the main thoroughfare of London’s Chinatown and is surrounded by other notable streets including Shaftesbury Avenue to the north and Leicester Square to the south.How Long is Gerrard Street?
Gerrard Street is approximately 270 metres (around 885 feet) in length. While relatively short, it packs a tremendous amount of activity and cultural richness into its small footprint. The street was officially pedestrianised in the 1980s, as part of broader efforts by Westminster City Council to revitalise Soho and support the growing Chinatown area. The exact timeline of pedestrianisation unfolded gradually, with increasing restrictions on vehicle access throughout the decade, culminating in a fully pedestrian-friendly street by the late 1980s.The History of Gerrard Street
Gerrard Street was developed in the late 17th century, around 1677 to 1685, during a period of rapid urban expansion in London. Originally, it was a fashionable residential area, attracting wealthy and influential residents.During the 18th and 19th centuries, the street evolved into a hub for various trades, clubs, and entertainment venues, reflecting the changing character of Soho itself. It was in the 20th century, particularly after World War II, that Gerrard Street began to emerge as the centre of London's growing Chinese community.
Map of Gerrard Street, London
Origin of the Name and Pronunciation
Gerrard Street is named after Charles Gerard, 1st Earl of Macclesfield (1618–1694), a Royalist general and a landowner who owned the land on which the street was built.The name is commonly pronounced as “JERR-ard”
(/ˈdʒɛr.ərd/ in IPA), not “Guh-RARD” as some might assume by its spelling.
Characteristics and Connecting Roads
Today, Gerrard Street is best known for its striking Chinese gates, lanterns, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a pedestrian-friendly street bustling with restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, and souvenir shops that represent various regions of China and East Asia. Gerrard Street connects with:- Wardour Street (west)
- Newport Place (north)
- Lisle Street (north)
- Rupert Street (east)
- Macclesfield Street (a small street crossing through Chinatown)
Major Buildings and Landmarks on Gerrard Street
Among the notable spots you will find on Gerrard Street are:- The large ornate Chinese Gate at the eastern entrance (completed in 2016, and the largest Chinese gate in the UK)
- New Loon Moon Supermarket – a landmark Asian grocery store
- Well-known Chinese restaurants such as Golden Dragon, Four Seasons, and Plum Valley
- Various traditional Chinese bakeries offering delicacies like mooncakes and custard buns
Painting of Gerrard Street (View full-size image here)
Nearest London Underground Stations
Gerrard Street is very centrally located and well-served by several London Underground stations:- Leicester Square Station (Northern and Piccadilly Lines) – about a 3-minute walk
- Piccadilly Circus Station (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines) – about a 5-minute walk
- Tottenham Court Road Station (Central, Elizabeth, and Northern Lines) – about a 7-minute walk
Fun Facts About Gerrard Street
- During the 1950s and 1960s, Gerrard Street was a centre for London’s emerging jazz scene, hosting clubs where famous musicians such as Ronnie Scott performed before he opened his own legendary jazz club nearby.
- Gerrard Street was officially designated the centre of Chinatown in the 1970s as Chinese businesses and immigrants, many of whom had fled from Hong Kong, established a thriving community there.
- It is a popular filming location, often featured in movies and television shows set in London’s Chinatown.