Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly is one of London's oldest roads which originally led out of the city to the West. Originally known as Portugal Street, it acquired its present name in the 16th century from Pickadilly Hall, either because ruffs known as 'piccadils' were manufactured there or because houses built there were on the outskirts of the developed area.
Piccadilly Circus is formed by the intersection of Piccadilly, Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue and the Haymarket.
Long known as a gathering place for the young, Piccadilly Circus' is characterised by a feeling of vibrant urban life as a result of the influx of new shops, galleries and restaurants.
The centerpiece of the area is the Shaftesbury Monument, a fountain topped by a statue of Eros. Formerly an island, it is now part of a pedestrian mall.
Location
Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly
London
W1
Nearest Tube / Rail Station
Piccadilly Circus