This rather unusual name derives from a tailor named Roger Baker, famous for making the frilled collars worn by men the 17th Century. Contrary to popular belief, the “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic that trundles around the central statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, Piccadilly Circus is an amalgamation of bright lights, lavish entertainment and bustling commuters, a scene which attracts thousands of visitors each year, day and night.
The glorious aluminium statue depicting the winged archer Anteros was designed by Alfred Gilbert and constructed in 1893. It is the first of its kind to be completely cast in aluminium and is today a favourite meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
As much as it’s the epicentre of lively entertainment, Piccadilly Circus is also a great place to start your journey. Marking the junction between Regent Street, Shaftsbury Avenue, Piccadilly and Haymarket, visitors need only choose a direction to start in. The area also connects major sightseeing points of interest such as Trafalgar Square, Soho, Chinatown and Leicester Square. For those looking for the fantastic shopping outlets, head down Regent Street or take a sharp turn for the district’s major entertainment area and catch a show at the Theatre Royal or peruse the gems at the Royal Academy of Art, just around the corner.
If the bustling chaos and dizzy lights become too much, relax in one of the surrounding traditional pubs or cosy up in one of the nearby cafés.
Located in the heart of London, Piccadilly Circus is easily accessible via bus or underground. The nearest Underground station is Piccadilly Circus.
