Pimlico Area Guide

Situated in the borough of the City of Westminster in the heart of London, Pimlico is nestled to the south of Belgravia, Westminster, and Victoria, and to the east of Chelsea. Its southern boundary is marked by the River Thames. It’s an upscale residential area, renowned for its charming garden squares, regency architecture and river views.  Its ideal central location offers residents easy access to the heart of the city, making it a popular choice for young professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Apartments with views of Pimlico’s garden squares, as well as houses within the “Pimlico Grid” — the area bounded by St George’s Drive and Sutherland Street, including Eccleston, Warwick, and St George’s — are highly sought after. Buyers are eager to acquire a piece of London’s iconic architecture, similar to that found in Belgravia, but without the hefty price tags associated with it.

Adjacent to the historic Westminster district, Pimlico allows residents to enjoy iconic local attractions and parliamentary offices at their convenience. The neighborhood also provides easy access to other affluent areas like Chelsea and Kensington, with picturesque locations such as St James’ Park and Oxford Street within walking distance.

A short trip from Pimlico leads to trendy hotspots like Soho, Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and the famous West End. These areas, filled with a plethora of bars and restaurants, offer endless entertainment options.

While Pimlico may not be as widely recognized as some of London’s other neighborhoods, it possesses a unique charm that captivates its visitors. This hidden gem offers a genuine London experience, with its unique ambiance and cultural richness adding to its appeal. 

 

History

Pimlico, a London district with a rich history tracing back to the 16th century, transformed from a marshland into a residential area in the 19th century. It gained popularity as a fashionable district in the 20th century, attracting wealthy residents and luxury retailers.

Despite the war’s damage, Pimlico retained its character. The 1950s ushered in extensive redevelopment in damaged areas, including Churchill Gardens and Lillington and Longmoore Gardens estates. Many larger Victorian houses were also converted into hotels and other establishments during this period.

 

Fun Facts

  • Pimlico has been home to numerous notable figures, including Winston Churchil.
  • Thomas Cubitt, the architect behind Pimlico, also had a hand in designing the eastern facade of Buckingham Palace.
  • The area was developed by Cubitt into a grid of elegant white stucco terraces. The most grandiose and lavish houses were constructed along St George’s Drive.

 

Transport Links

Pimlico’s integration into London’s transport network makes it a convenient base for city-wide exploration. It has its own tube station, linking the Victoria Line with the Circle Line, providing easy access across the city.

Victoria Station, one of the country’s major transport hubs, is just a 2-minute tube ride from Pimlico or a 10-minute walk from Dolphin Square. From there, you can access the Gatwick Express and trains to numerous destinations, or even take a coach to different parts of Europe from the nearby Victoria bus station.

Other key stations like Charing Cross, Paddington, London Bridge, and Clapham Junction are also within a short tube journey. This places a significant part of the UK within easy reach.

Pimlico is well-serviced by bus routes, including night buses, ensuring minimal wait times. Taxis are readily available too. The district’s broad roads and well-maintained pavements make it ideal for walking or cycling, particularly along the River Thames.

 

Things to do:

  • Tate Britain
  • Apollo Victoria Theatre
  • St. Georges Square
  • Chelsea Flower Show
  • Saatchi Gallery

 

Business and Education

Historically a residential zone, Pimlico’s close proximity to central London and excellent accessibility have made it an appealing spot for businesses. The area features a blend of small enterprises, shops, cafes, and eateries that cater to both locals and tourists. Its strategic location within Westminster also makes it suitable for offices and professional services.

Pimlico is home to numerous educational institutions, adding to its attractiveness for families. The area offers a range of primary and secondary schools, and potentially higher education options in close proximity. Given that London hosts a multitude of universities and colleges, Pimlico residents are likely to have a wide array of educational possibilities within a manageable commute.