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POINT OF INTEREST

Jermyn Street

St. James's, London, Greater London, SW1Y

In the fashionable St. James’s neighborhood in the central city, Jermyn Street is one of London’s most stylish thoroughfares. Established by and named for Henry Jermyn, Earl of St. Albans, the street was first developed in 1664, following the approval of King Charles II. Today, the area is known as an upscale shopping destination, particularly for menswear as it has a long history of shirt tailoring.

The basics

Following its creation in the 17th century, and owing in part to its proximity to elegant Mayfair and St. James’s Palace, Jermyn Street quickly blossomed into a thriving London hub. Like the nearby Savile Row, Jermyn Street came to be known for its resident, expert tailors. Today, the street is still lined with traditional menswear specialists; including T.M. Lewin, Hawes & Curtis, and Turnbull & Asser; as well as restaurants, art galleries, a theater, and other venues.

Jermyn Street can be glimpsed during walking tours of central London. Thanks to its convenient location and proximity to other highlight attractions, it’s also easy to plan a self-led stroll.

Things to know before you go

  • Jermyn Street has been home to many famous residents throughout its long history—look out for the blue plaque that decorates Sir Isaac Newton’s former home.
  • One of the oldest cheesemongers in England—Paxton and Whitfield—established in 1797, is among Jermyn Street’s highlight shops.
  • Jermyn Street is part of the St. James’s Arts District; pair your visit with trips to the Royal Academy or nearby galleries like the White Cube.

How to get there

Jermyn Street runs parallel to Piccadilly and is just moments from Piccadilly Circus station, which is served by the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines. Alternatively, the area is served by numerous bus lines, and can also be reached by taxi, by bike, or on foot.

When to get there

As Jermyn Street is primarily celebrated as a shopping hub, be sure to visit during daytime hours to make the most of its enviable retail offerings. The area is particularly festive (and crowded) in the lead-up to Christmas, when glittering light displays are installed above the street.

Nearby Shopping Highlights

If your Jermyn Street visit inspires you to seek further retail therapy, continue your shopping excursion in the vicinity. The Burlington Arcade offers luxury shopping within a heritage-covered arcade, while Old Bond Street and New Bond Street are home to some of London’s flashiest designer boutiques.

Ways to explore

Following its creation in the 17th century, and owing in part to its proximity to elegant Mayfair and St. James’s Palace, Jermyn Street quickly blossomed into a thriving London hub. Like nearby Savile Row, Jermyn Street became known for its expert tailors. Today, the street is still lined with traditional menswear specialists, as well as women’s fashion, restaurants, art galleries, a theater, and other venues.

Jermyn Street can be glimpsed during walking tours of central London. Thanks to its convenient location close to other attractions, it’s also easy to take a stroll there when sightseeing on your own.

Accessibility

Many businesses are wheelchair accessible, but the Jermyn Street Theatre is not, since access is down a flight of stairs; the venue does offer captions and audio-visual descriptions, though.

Age limits

Some shows at the theater have age restrictions due to content.

What to pack

A credit card with a healthy spending limit

What to wear

At least smart-casual dress to shop on this upmarket street

Not allowed

While it’s not prohibited, there’s no need to rush your shopping experience at Jermyn Street, as the bespoke retailers expect you to take your time.

Amenities

Unless you’re dining on Jermyn Street, use the public restrooms at Piccadilly Circus station.

Address

Jermyn Street runs parallel to Piccadilly, in London’s City of Westminster. Walk there while sightseeing in central London or use public transportation.

Driving

Driving isn’t recommended in this area due to heavy traffic, congestion charges, and expensive parking. If you must drive, head toward Piccadilly Circus or down Piccadilly, but be prepared to prebook a spot in a parking garage or park some way from Jermyn Street and walk.

Public transportation

Jermyn Street’s eastern end is a short walk from Piccadilly Circus underground station, on the Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines. You can also take one of the bus lines that run along Piccadilly and Regent Street St. James’s; buses 9, 19, 23, 88, 94, and 453 stop nearby.

Best times to visit

Retailers are typically open from mid-morning until early evening; come soon after opening for a crowd-free stroll. The theater has some mid-afternoon matinees along with evening performances.

Best days to visit

Visit midweek for a shopping experience without the weekend crowds.

Best months to visit

For bargains, visit during the annual sales in January and June/July.

Special events

London Fashion Week Men’s is typically held in late June/early July, with some shows taking place on Jermyn Street.

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