BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

Charles Fitzroy first developed the northern part of Fitzrovia in the 18th Century. Fitzroy Street and Fitzroy Square also bear his name, the square providing some of the most distinguished architectural features of the area. In 1883 the Fitzroy Coffee House was built and in 1919 this became the Fitzroy Tavern.

‘Fitzrovia’ is the name given to a select area of London that housed the Fitzroy Tavern, made famous by the colourful infamous characters which frequented it during the 1920-50’s. These include Dylan Thomas, George Orwell, Quentin Crisp. Many other well known literary names such as George Bernard Shaw, Virginia Woolfe and Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden) also resided in Fitzrovia.

During the 1930’s the BBC was built, an Art Deco building with a sculpture by Eric Gill over the front entrance. In 1966, the BT Tower was opened, once famous for being the tallest building in London, with a revolving restaurant at the top commanding panoramic views of the City.

In the present day, Fitzrovia is home to the British advertising, media, fashion, TV, architecture, design industries as well as commercial art galleries and some of the most prestigious restaurants and hotels. In amongst this commercial hub of central London, there is a large residential community who are very proud of Fitzrovia’s special history and architecture. Charlotte Street is one of London’s most vibrant restaurant locations and the close proximity of Marylebone, Mayfair and Soho make Fitzrovia an ideal Central London address.

 TUBE - Goodge Street, Tottenham Ct Road, Oxford Circus, Regent’s Park, Gt Portland Street, Warren Street