Fleet Street

The Basics

Fleet Street has been a feature of London since Roman times. It connects the City of Westminster to Ludgate Circus, where it connected with the River Fleet for which it is named. The thoroughfare first became associated with the print industry in the 16th century, when a number of publishing houses opened. By the 20th century most major national newspapers were found along the street; although many have since moved on, “Fleet Street” is still used as a way to refer to the press throughout Britain.

Street highlights include the Royal Courts of Justice (at the point where Fleet Street meets the Strand), Temple Church, and Prince Henry’s Room, a former tavern that was one of the only buildings in the area to survive the Great Fire of London in 1666. Guided bus and walking tours of the area visit Fleet Street, and hop-on hop-off bus tours stop nearby.

Things to Know Before You Go

Fleet Street is ideal for journalism and history buffs.

The great diarist Samuel Pepys was born on Fleet Street in 1633.

The fictional murderer Sweeney Todd lived (and had his barber shop) on the street.

There are many pubs, restaurants, and cafés along the route.

Fleet Street is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Fleet Street is located in central London, a 15-minute walk from both the British Museum and Trafalgar Square. The closest Underground stations are Temple and Blackfriars, both served by the District Line. Numerous city buses travel along Fleet Street as well.

When to Get There

Fleet Street is open 24 hours a day. It’s busiest during the work week, especially at rush hours, and during lunch breaks when nearby office workers emerge to find a meal. Weekend mornings are usually the quietest time to visit. London in general is busiest in late spring and summer, so consider visiting in early spring or fall for a relatively less crowded experience.

Visit the Royal Courts of Justice

Built in the 1870s, at the height of the Victorian era, the neo-Gothic Royal Courts of Justice make an impressive sight. Walk along the imposing Great Hall, see the Painted Room with its ornate decor, and even sit in on live court proceedings. The courts are occasionally closed to the public so check before visiting.

Ways to explore

Walking the length of Fleet Street is like traveling through time: It’s been a paved thoroughfare since Roman times. Guided bus and walking tours of the area visit the 0.3-mile (0.5-kilometer) street, and hop-on hop-off bus tours stop nearby.

Highlights on the street include the Royal Courts of Justice, Temple Church, and Prince Henry’s Room, a former tavern that survived the 1666 Great Fire of London. The street first became associated with the print industry in 1500; by the 20th century, most major national newspapers were located here—although by the mid-2010s they had moved on.

Accessibility

Wheelchair users and travelers with other mobility issues should consider taking a private guided tour of Fleet Street and surrounding areas, as group walking tours and hop-on hop-off buses may not always provide suitable access.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reusable drink bottle and coffee cup, foldable umbrella

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, a season-appropriate coat or jacket

Not allowed

While guided tours of the Royal Courts of Justice are available, not all hearings are open to the public.

Amenities

Public restrooms, bank

Address

Fleet Street is located in central London, just west of St. Paul’s Cathedral, north of the Millennium Bridge, and a 15-minute walk from both the British Museum and Trafalgar Square.

Driving

Driving in central London isn’t recommended due to congestion and the difficulty (and expense) of parking. If you must drive, park in a garage in the surrounding area and walk to Fleet Street.

Public transportation

The closest Underground stations are Temple and Blackfriars, both on the District Line. Numerous city buses travel along Fleet Street, too, including route numbers 15, 17, and 26.

Best times to visit

Many offices and businesses are located here, so weekday mornings, lunchtimes, and late afternoons are busy. Stroll in the early morning for a quieter experience.

Best days to visit

Some major Fleet Street landmarks—such as the Temple Church and the Royal Courts of Justice—are closed on weekends, so visit midweek to see inside.

Best months to visit

London is a year-round destination, but it tends to be busiest in late spring and summer. Visit in early spring or fall for relatively fewer crowds.

Special events

Many events are held in the area, including the London Festival of Architecture (May–June) and the literary Festival of Words (May).