Regent Street

The Basics

Shopping is the main draw for visitors, but Regent Street is also a popular inclusion on London sightseeing tours. Visit on a hop-on hop-off tour to admire highlights such as All Souls Church, built by acclaimed architect John Nash; drive past dazzling shopfronts and glittering illuminations on a night tour of central London; or take a walking tour from Regent Street through Piccadilly Circus and Pall Mall to see the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Most shops on Regent Street are open daily from 10am until around 8 or 9pm, although Sunday hours may be shorter and bars and restaurants are typically open until late.

• Free Wi-Fi is available along Regent Street.

• There are three hotels along Regent Street, as well as numerous bars, restaurants, and cafés.

How to Get There

Regent Street runs from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus in London’s West End and is within walking distance of many central attractions. The closest underground stations are Oxford Circus (Central, Victoria, and Bakerloo lines) at the northern end of the street and Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) at the southern end.

When to Get There

Regent Street plays host to a number of seasonal events and festivities throughout the year, including the Summer Streets Festival (July and August) and the Regent Street Motor Show (November). It’s particularly atmospheric over the holiday season, with some of London’s most impressive light displays and events including the Christmas lights Switch On concert, the Lumiere London lights festival, and Hamleys Christmas Toy Parade.

Shopping on Regent Street

Nicknamed the ‘Mile of Style,’ Regent Street has over 75 stores as well as its own gift card and hands-free shopping service. The most famous destinations are the gigantic Liberty department store, Hamleys Toy Store, and one of the world’s largest Apple stores. Other shops include designer boutiques like Burberry, J. Crew, Anthropologie, and Ralph Lauren and high-street favorites like H&M, Topshop, and Mango.

Ways to explore

Shopping is the main draw for many visitors, but Regent Street is also a popular inclusion on London sightseeing tours—that’s how pretty this street is. Visit on a hop-on hop-off tour to admire highlights such as All Souls Church, drive past dazzling shopfronts and glittering illuminations on a night tour of central London, or take a walking tour from Regent Street through Piccadilly Circus and Pall Mall to see the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace.

Accessibility

Regent Street is generally flat and wheelchair accessible, although it can be crowded. Some buildings may have steps to enter.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, credit card, sunglasses

What to wear

Light jacket, comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Be aware that Regent Street is a busy London thoroughfare, packed with commuters and tourists alike, so try not to stop for too long taking photos, either on the pavement or road.

Amenities

Free Wi-Fi, public toilets on Princes Street (near Oxford Circus station), ATMs

Address

Regent Street is so centrally located that there will likely be a time when exploring London that you’ll end up here. Beyond wandering on foot, you can travel via tube, numerous bus routes, rideshare, or join a tour that stops by.

Driving

While you can drive, it’s certainly not recommended: you’ll have to deal with congestion charges and possible emissions fees. If you do need to drive, there are underground paid car parks scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Public transportation

Regent Street runs from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus in London’s West End, and it’s within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions. The closest tube stations are Oxford Circus (Central, Victoria, and Bakerloo lines) at the northern end and Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) at the southern end.

Best times to visit

Come on weekday mornings or midafternoons to avoid the crowds. Most shops stay open until around 7:30pm.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are less crowded with shoppers, but Sundays during summer are car-free. If you’re there to shop, stores often operate later opening times on Thursdays, while Sundays typically mean shorter hours.

Best months to visit

September and October are great for pleasant weather, while November and December boast Christmas lights and festivities.

Special events

Sundays are car-free during summer, and the Christmas lights are on from early November to January.