Contributed by Diane Michaud
Join the locals; people watch, take a stroll and enjoy the Chelsea atmosphere of Sloane Square, Duke of York’s Square, and Pavilion Road.
SLOANE SQUARE, a pretty leafy square, was created in 1771 on the boundary of two of the largest aristocratic estates in London, the Grosvenor and Cadogan, named after Sir Hans Sloane, 1660- 1753. Stand in the centre of the Square, next to the Venus Fountain, take in the
view of the Royal Court Theatre, 1888, which is known for avant-garde productions, particularly in the 60’s and 70’s.
Next to the theatre is Colbert, a French style brasserie/café. Why not take a pavement table, sip your drinks and people watch? You may recognise a famous face or two! No autographs, please! Other restaurants in the Square with outdoor seating are The Botanist and Cote, nestled between upmarket shops plus a Barclays Bank.
Directly opposite the Royal Court Theatre is the department store, Peter Jones. From their top floor café views of the V&A Museum and the Albert Hall are visible over the rooftops; an additional perk when sipping your drink or choice, accompanied by a variety of cakes.
A hidden gem is Pavilion Road which runs from the north side of Sloane Square to Knightsbridge. It is London’s longest mews (where one’s coaches and horses were housed in Victorian times), now pedestrianised and home to many artisan shops and restaurants…a vibrant and interesting area. Gregory Peck, resided here, spot the Blue Plaque.
Don’t miss out on the Duke of York’s Square, built on the site of the Duke of York’s Barracks, behind the row of shops on the south side of Peter Jones. Yet more shops and restaurants are housed here as well as the interesting Saatchi Gallery. A commanding statue of Sir Hans Sloane overlooks part of the Duke of York’s Square from where he surveys Londoners and visitors alike! Enjoy your time in this highly recommended part of London!
Getting there: Sloane Square Tube Station is on District or Circle Lines, approximately 15 minutes from Tower Hill underground station.
