Great Portland Street is steeped in history and filled with vibrant energy, offering a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor eager to uncover the charm of this bustling area, this guide will serve as your compass.
Great Portland Street is not only a haven for tourists and locals alike, but it also emerges as an excellent location to work in. Its proximity to major railway and tube stations, notably the Great Portland Street Station, ensures easy commutes, making it a prime location for businesses and professionals. Furthermore, the area is brimming with a variety of cafes and restaurants, offering ample options for business lunches and informal meetings. You'll also find numerous coworking spaces and serviced offices in the area, catering to businesses of all sizes. The dynamic vibe, the ease of access, and the wealth of amenities collectively make Great Portland Street an attractive hub for working professionals.
Two business people sitting on a bench in a park
We'll explore everything from the impressive architecture surrounding Great Portland Street Station to the diverse array of eateries and shops that give this district its distinct character. So, buckle up and let's begin our journey down Great Portland Street.
History
Great Portland Street in London has a history as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Established during the development of the Marylebone district in the 18th century, it was initially named after the 3rd Duke of Portland. As a part of the grand urban plan by the Cavendish-Harley family, the area was envisioned as a luxurious residential neighbourhood with Georgian terraces. The Great Portland Street station, which opened in 1863, further fuelled growth, making it a crucial hub in the city's transport network.
During the Victorian era, Great Portland Street underwent several transformations. The introduction of commercial businesses and establishments signalled a shift from its residential origins. Its proximity to the Great Portland Street station made it an ideal location for trade and commerce, attracting a diverse array of businesses. Renowned architects, such as John Nash, added their unique touch to the street, constructing iconic buildings that added to the tapestry of the area's architectural landscape.
World War II saw Great Portland Street sustain damage, with many of its structures ravaged by the bombings. The post-war era, however, brought about a period of renewal and reconstruction that imbued new life into the area. In the contemporary era, the street is a blend of the traditional and modern, a reflection of London's multifaceted nature. Its rich history is apparent in the Georgian and Victorian buildings that stand proudly alongside contemporary architecture, symbolising the resilience and enduring allure of Great Portland Street.
Over the years, the area has evolved, reflecting the changing zeitgeist of London, but it never lost its quintessential charm and character. Today, Great Portland Street masterfully blends the old and the new – a testament to its rich history.
Entrance to the Marylebone house with white statues and columns on the right
Great Portland Street Area Guide
Today, Great Portland Street is renowned as a bustling hub of activity, attracting a diverse crowd. It is a favourite among professionals due to its proximity to business hubs and excellent transport links via the Great Portland Street Station. The myriad of offices and coworking spaces have attracted an influx of entrepreneurs, start-ups, and established businesses to the area.
However, Great Portland Street isn't just for the career-focused. A burgeoning food and drink scene makes it a gastronomic haven, with cafes, upscale restaurants, and traditional British pubs offering culinary delights to foodies and casual diners alike. The area's trendy boutiques, art galleries, and specialist shops draw in a variety of visitors, from art enthusiasts to avid shoppers.
Those with a penchant for health and wellness will find the street's yoga centres, fitness studios and wellness spas particularly appealing. The nearby Regent's Park also provides a tranquil retreat for joggers, cyclists, and those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle.
Culturally, Great Portland Street has a vibrant arts scene, with the famous BBC Broadcasting House and several theatres adding a creative twist to the area. It's not uncommon to see media professionals and theatre-goers blending with the crowd.
Overall, Great Portland Street offers something for everyone, whether you're an ambitious professional, a culture vulture, a culinary enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys the vibrant city life. This thriving and diverse street truly encapsulates the spirit of modern London.
TOP 10 lunch spots in Great Portland Street
From casual cafés to upscale restaurants, Great Portland Street caters to all tastes and budgets. These lunch spots not only offer a culinary adventure but also a chance to soak in the energetic vibe of the area.
Riding House Café - A local favourite, the Riding House Café offers an eclectic menu with dishes ranging from healthy salads to hearty mains. The buzzing atmosphere and stylish decor make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
Kaffeine- If you're in the mood for a quick bite or a coffee, Kaffeine offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and artisanal coffee. The café’s modern, minimalist interiors make for a relaxed setting.
Portland Restaurant – This Michelin-star restaurant offers a seasonal menu that spotlights the best of British cuisine. The classy, intimate ambience makes it an ideal choice for a business lunch or a special occasion.
Fischer's - For those craving Bavarian delicacies, Fischer's is a must-visit. This Viennese inspired café and konditorei brings a slice of Austria to Great Portland Street.
GT Corner– Known for its delightful pastries and sandwiches, GT Corner is an excellent choice for a light, casual lunch. The bright, airy interiors and a view of the street add to the inviting vibe.
Iberica– Serving authentic Spanish cuisine, Iberica is famous for its tapas. The restaurant’s warm, rustic ambience perfectly complements the flavours of Spain.
The George - The George offers a contemporary British menu in a sleek, modern setting. Their set lunch menu is a crowd-pleaser, offering value for money.
Roti Chai– For an explosion of Indian flavours, head to Roti Chai. This restaurant serves street food-inspired dishes from various regions of India in a vibrant, informal setting.
The Albany – A quintessential British pub, The Albany offers classic pub fare and a wide selection of beers. Its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a casual lunch.
Peyton and Byrne - This bakery and café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. It's a great place to grab a quick, delicious lunch on the go.
Ladies having lunch and cowork in Great Portland Street restaurant
TOP 10 pubs and bars in Great Portland Street
From traditional British pubs to contemporary cocktail bars, Great Portland Street has a lot to offer when it comes to nightlife. These pubs and bars not only offer a great drinking experience but also offer an insight into the lively nightlife of Great Portland Street.
The Albany - A traditional British pub with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a range of beers, ales, and spirits along with a pub grub menu.
The Green Man - Known for its wide selection of ales and hearty pub food, The Green Man is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Artesian- This cocktail bar impresses with its creative concoctions and stylish atmosphere. A must-try for cocktail lovers.
The Crown & Sceptre - A classic pub with a contemporary touch, serving a range of craft beers and quality wines.
The Smugglers Tavern - A charming pub offering a great selection of draught beers, cask ales, and spirits along with a robust food menu.
Simmons Bar - Known for its quirky decor and extensive cocktail list, Simmons Bar also offers five-hour-long happy hours.
Shochu Lounge - A basement bar serving Japanese-inspired cocktails in a chic, atmospheric setting.
The Cock Tavern - A traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere, offering a range of beers, wines, and spirits in addition to a solid food menu.
The Lucky Pig - A cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe, offering innovative cocktails and a well-curated selection of wines and spirits.
The Grafton Arms Pub & Rooms - A cosy pub with a beer garden, offering a variety of ales, lagers, and spirits, as well as a selection of British and global dishes.
Pub on a corner of a building in Great Portland Street
Transport links
Great Portland Street is served by excellent transport links, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
The Great Portland Street Station, sitting on the Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines, is a major hub, providing quick connections to other parts of London. Numerous bus routes run through the area, offering an alternative means of transport and an opportunity to admire the cityscape at a leisurely pace.
For those who prefer cycling, London's comprehensive cycle network includes several routes that pass through Great Portland Street. There are also numerous Santander Cycle docking stations in the vicinity for convenient bike hire.
Additionally, several main roads intersect at Great Portland Street, including the A501 (Marylebone Road) and the A5204, providing easy access for road users. Secure car parks are also available in the area for drivers.
Whether you're commuting, sightseeing, or simply exploring the neighbourhood, the transport options at Great Portland Street ensure that you can get around with ease.
London underground station stairs
Meeting rooms in Great Portland Street
Whether you're planning a conference, workshop, seminar, or just a simple team meeting, Great Portland Street has a wealth of options available on Tally Workspace.
Landmark Marylebone - Known for its professional environment and high-quality facilities, Landmark provides a selection of meeting rooms that can accommodate groups of all sizes.
TOG The Smiths Building- A modern, fully equipped workspace that offers a range of meeting rooms in various sizes. Whether you're hosting a small team discussion or a larger presentation, TOG can cater to your needs.
39 Fitzroy Square - Offering a variety of flexible meeting spaces, 39 Fitzroy is an excellent choice for businesses in need of a convenient and professional setting.
Landmark New Cavendish - With its comfortable, contemporary meeting rooms, Landmark is perfect for those looking for a relaxed, yet professional atmosphere.
TOG Brock House - TOG's meeting rooms are designed with creativity and collaboration in mind. The beautifully designed spaces are sure to inspire your team.
With Tally Workspace, finding and booking the perfect meeting space in Great Portland Street is just a few clicks away.
Meeting room in TOG Brock House
Hot desks in Great Portland Street
Great Portland Street is a hub for businesses and startups, boasting a variety of hot desk options available on Tally Workspace. These flexible desks provide a professional and dynamic working environment, ideal for those who enjoy a change of scenery and the opportunity to network.
Landmark Marylebone - This space offers hot desks in a modern, open plan office setting. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a productive environment among like-minded professionals.
The Building Society Fitzrovia - Offering hot desks in a creative, collaborative workspace, The Building Society Fitzrovia is suitable for freelancers and small teams seeking flexibility.
Landmark Tottenham Court Road - Providing a blend of comfort and professionalism, Landmark Tottenham Court Road offers hot desks in a beautifully equipped workspace.
Landmark New Cavendish - This contemporary office space offers hot desk options in a relaxed and welcoming environment, ideal for creatives and entrepreneurs.
Huckletree Oxford Circus - With its beautifully designed interiors and flexible hot desk options, Huckletree Oxford Circus fosters a stimulating working environment.
Through Tally Workspace, booking a hot desk in Great Portland Street is easy and convenient, allowing you to find the perfect workspace that suits your needs.
Hot desk in Landmark New Cavendish
Summary
Great Portland Street is a dynamic hub offering a sophisticated blend of traditional and contemporary workspaces. Its excellent transport links, including the Great Portland Street Station and numerous bus routes, provide easy access to and from the area. A wealth of choices is available for individuals and businesses seeking meeting rooms or hot desk facilities. Professional spaces, such as Landmark Marylebone, and more creative environments, like TOG The Smiths Building, cater to a variety of needs. With the help of Tally Workspace, finding and booking the ideal workspace is convenient and straightforward. Overall, working at Great Portland Street promises a well-connected, flexible, and vibrant environment.
