Regent Street
The name Regent Street is synonymous with that most beloved of past times; shopping. For any Londoner, or any tourist visiting the capital city of England, a trip down the legendary Regent Street is a thrill that captures even those who cannot usually enjoy shopping. There is an unmistakable buzz in the air, and the frothy fun of lighthearted window shopping or serious purchasing is one that few can resist.
The life of Regent Street began in 1811, during a period in history known as the English Regency. The King, George III, was declared unfit to rule and his son and eventual successor, the Prince of Wales also named George, was declared proxy Regent. This Regency lasted for nine years, ending with the death of George III and the Prince Regent becoming King in full, as George IV. During the Regency, George IV embarked on grand plans to redesign London, shaping the city as it is known today.
Working with the renowned architect John Nash, George IV devised a street that would be a simple route through the heart of London, with buildings let out to some of the most fashion forward names of the time. The street was, aptly, named Regent Street in honor of the title George held for the nine years prior to his father’s death.
However, little of Nash’s original designs remain; the street was subject to mass regeneration and urbanization toward the beginning of the 20th Century. This is unusual for London, as much of Nash’s original work is still found throughout the city; he, and his monarch and patron, have stamped an indelible mark on the city. However, this does not extend to Regent Street, which was redesigned as a dividing line between the somewhat unsavory area of Soho and the very upper class Mayfair area. Depending which end of Regent Street you approach it from, there is a little of both of these influences in the street itself.
Little has changed, however, in the use of Regent Street. Just as Nash and George IV planned, it is still a thoroughfare through central London – albeit one that is regularly jammed with traffic – and a desirable address for any shop premises. Today, world famous shops such as toy store Hamley’s and art nouveau department store Liberty’s still reside on the street with great pride.
Although clearly never intended by the men who designed it, Regent Street has gained another prominence in the mind of the average Londoner. The Christmas lights that decorate the street come December are stunning, and being invited to switch them on is a highlight for many a C-List celebrity. Considering Christmas, and its associated shopping period, is Regent Street’s busiest time, it is apt that it sparkles and glistens in the season it is perfect for.
Finding one’s way to Regent Street is incredibly simple, appropriately. The nearest London Underground station is Oxford Circus, which is one of the biggest and busiest of the Tube stations. It is here that many of the popular Tube lines, Central, Bakerloo and Victoria, all converge. One can also reach Regent Street by bus, though due to the congestion this is not advisable during rush hour or any period when there may be even more shoppers than usual. Regent Street is a testament to old and modern London all at once, and is a pleasurable must-see visit for anyone visiting the city.