Northumberland Avenue, London
Northumberland Avenue is a short but strikingly elegant street in the City of Westminster, running from Charing Cross down to the Victoria Embankment. It's approximately 0.2 miles (320 metres) in length and lined with leafy trees, historic architecture, and grand hotels. This atmospheric avenue lies just a few steps from Trafalgar Square, making it a quiet but central part of London's bustling heart.
Where it connects
Northumberland Avenue links several notable streets and passageways:- Charing Cross (at the northwest end)
- Northumberland Street
- Craven Street
- Embankment Place
- Great Scotland Yard
- Whitehall Place
- And it terminates at the Victoria Embankment, facing the River Thames
A Brief History
The area now occupied by Northumberland Avenue was once the site of Northumberland House, a grand Jacobean townhouse originally built in the early 17th century for Henry Percy, the 9th Earl of Northumberland. The house dominated the area until the late 19th century, fronting the Strand and boasting extensive private gardens that stretched toward the Thames.As London modernised in the Victorian era, pressure mounted to redevelop the area. Northumberland House was finally demolished in 1874, and Northumberland Avenue was laid out soon after, completed around 1876 as part of efforts to improve access to the newly constructed Victoria Embankment and provide space for luxury hotels. The avenue quickly became fashionable, with several opulent buildings springing up along its route.
Map of Northumberland Avenue, London
Sights and Architecture
North Side- Great Scotland Yard Building - Once the HQ of the Metropolitan Police, this historic building has been transformed into a luxury hotel.
- Citadines Trafalgar Square London - A stylish aparthotel, perfect for visitors seeking self-catering accommodation right by central London.
- Trafalgar Buildings - An elegant office block with classical styling.
- Site of Northumberland House - While the house no longer stands, its legacy lives on in the name and grandeur of the avenue.
- Corinthia Hotel London - One of London's finest five-star hotels, the Corinthia blends modern luxury with Victorian opulence in a historic building.
- Whitehall Gardens - A hidden gem of a public garden, tucked along the Embankment side, filled with exotic trees and sculptures.
How to reach Northumberland Avenue
Take the Bakerloo Line, Circle Line, District Line or Northern Line to the Embankment Tube Station and walk from there. It's just a couple of minutes' walk from either end of the avenue. Charing Cross station (rail and Underground) is also very nearby.Fun Facts
- Northumberland Avenue features in the British version of the board game Monopoly, adding to its cultural fame.
- Though small, the street is often used in films and TV shows for its stately appearance and proximity to key landmarks.
- The trees lining the avenue include impressive plane trees and are carefully maintained by Westminster Council.
- It's a great walking route for those heading between Trafalgar Square and the Thames Path, offering a quieter and greener option.