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Number 9 bus to Kensington -
What to look for on the way
Piccadilly is named after a draper named
Robert Baker who became wealthy during the reign of Charles I by selling
stiff ruffled collars called pickadils, and used his money to build a big
house in the area. It is a fairly upmarket, "old money"
area as you may see from the types of shops and buildings you pass.
When travelling
along Piccadilly, watch out for the following:
Fortnum and Mason (on your left): This wonderful shop has been on Piccadilly since 1756. It sells excellent tea and chocolates.
The Ritz Hotel (also on your left): The hotel, a symbol of opulence, opened in 1906 and is named after its Swiss architect, Cesar Ritz.
Hyde Park Corner was once where a toll gate stood to mark the entrance to London from the west. Constitution Arch and a statue of the Duke of Wellington both sit on the island in the middle of the roundabout.
Knightsbridge is actually the name of the street from Hyde Park Corner to Kensington Road. Dating from the 11th century, the area was once a favourite place for duels and was prowled by highwaymen.
The Albert Memorial and Royal Albert
Hall (pictured) were both built after the death of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's
husband, in 1861. The Albert Hall is used for concerts, including, since
1941, the famous "Proms".
Did You Know?
The two founders of Fortnum and Mason are represented by the figures beside the clock over the entrance. The figures come out and bow to each other on the hour. Mr Fortnum wears a red coat which indicates that he was a footman in the Royal Household. He went into partnership with Mr Mason, a grocer. The staff of the store still wear tail-coats.