Fitzrovia, a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of London, always fills me with excitement. It’s a place where I can indulge my love for food, drinks, and exploration, and its central location means I inevitably find myself there more often than planned. But it’s never a chore, as exploring this charming neighborhood is a delightful way to spend time and satisfy my curiosity.
Today, I’m eager to share some of my favorite spots in Fitzrovia. So grab your walking shoes and get ready for a whirlwind tour!
Fitzrovia: A Hidden Treasure in the City
Nestled between Oxford Street, Euston Road, Bloomsbury, and Marylebone, Fitzrovia occupies a strategic spot in the heart of London. It’s just a stone’s throw from the bustling shops around Oxford Circus and renowned cultural landmarks like the British Museum, making it the perfect pit stop for a post-shopping feast or a pre-museum coffee.
Although Fitzrovia features wide, well-trodden streets, it also hides a network of narrow alleys and charming mews, begging to be explored. These hidden corners are perfect for those who enjoy discovering the unexpected.
A Stroll Through Charlotte Street
My Fitzrovia journey always begins on Charlotte Street, a street brimming with character. This vibrant thoroughfare, considered by many to be the most beloved in Fitzrovia, boasts a remarkable concentration of restaurants. The stretch between Goodge Street and Percy Street alone offers more dining options per square foot than almost anywhere else in London.
But Charlotte Street has more to offer than just culinary delights. Its colorful buildings and historic pub exteriors add to its undeniable charm. And let’s not forget the Charlotte Street Hotel, a luxurious gem that’s among London’s finest.
Secret Gardens and Culinary Delights
Fitzrovia isn’t just about streets; it’s also about enchanting places. The pedestrianized lanes of Colville Place and Charlotte Place, while similar in their narrow width, offer distinct experiences.
Colville Place is a haven of tranquility, with colorful doors and overgrown plants lining a quiet residential street. A hidden gem awaits at the end of the lane—the secret garden in Crabtree Fields, a peaceful oasis tucked away from the city’s clamor.
In contrast, Charlotte Place is a bustling culinary hub, boasting a tempting array of restaurants and cafes with delectable fare and inviting outdoor seating.
Passages of History and Charm
Fitzrovia’s hidden passages are another reason to fall in love with this neighborhood. The skinny alleys of Percy Passage and Newman Passage, connecting Charlotte Street to Newman Street, provide a glimpse into old London’s back lanes, with their brick facades and historical whispers.
Just a short distance away, Marylebone Passage offers another escape from the modern city, while Warren Mews, with its picturesque architecture, is perhaps the most photographed street in Fitzrovia.
A Culinary Adventure in Every Corner
But the true joy of Fitzrovia lies in its diverse restaurants, bars, and pubs. Whether you crave an Aussie breakfast at Lantana or winning cocktails at Shochu Lounge, Fitzrovia has something delicious to offer at any time of day.
For those seeking a traditional afternoon tea, the Sanderson hotel is a delightful indulgence. And for a quirky coffee break, the Attendant, tucked underground in an old Victorian loo, offers a unique and cozy experience.
Pubs with Literary Heritage
When evening descends, the Fitzroy Tavern beckons with its historic atmosphere and a sense of bygone times. This iconic pub has been a favorite haunt of literary greats such as Dylan Thomas, Augustus John, and George Orwell, and today it continues to draw in those seeking a taste of literary history.
Fitzrovia is a neighborhood brimming with hidden gems and captivating experiences, and I find myself constantly discovering new favorites. So, the next time you’re in London, make sure to venture into Fitzrovia. You won’t be disappointed.
Now, tell me, what are your favorite places in Fitzrovia?
