SW1 Area Guide
A locals' guide to SW1
Where do SW1 locals go?
POTUS Bar & Restaurant
A modern new bar located on the Albert Embankment. It offers modern interiors with fantastic music, great vibes and a place to go for after work drinks. Located in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, it comprises of great American food and cocktails inspired by past American presidents, hence the name POTUS (President of the United States)Read more
Why not explore the nearby areas of
west end,
soho,
covent garden,
mayfair,
fitzrovia,
holborn,
bloomsbury,
victoria,
marylebone,
and westminster
Did you know?
"Much of Belgravia's distinctive Georgian architecture owes itself to renowned master builder Thomas Cubitt, who oversaw the construction of many of the elegant stucco-fronted properties we see today."
The view from the tower at Westminster Cathedral is amazing, it's really worth the trip up there.
E
Eduard Pistea
When you think of the history and pageantry that has happened at Westminster Abbey, it gives you goosebumps!
J
Jamie Newson-Love
Say hello to the Queen at London's most recognisable landmark, Buckingham Palace.
S
Sigita Ranger
Explore SW1
What locals say about SW1
“Lillington Gardens Estate was declared a conservation area in 1990. You can walk all the way through the gardens from the top of Tachbrook Street down to Rampayne Street. I live there and it's quiet and lovely. Tate Britain is nearby on Millbank and Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery is to be found just over Vauxhall Bridge. ”
Alex
“I am a French girl and, for me, Victoria is the heart of London and it's great to come to this country and to be in the heart. This is a fantastic place, with something all hours, see people moved like beats”
celine
“Pimlico is so close to the heart of London yet can be so peaceful! I can walk to so many places from here and there are so many transport options too. A 15 minute walk and you have big Ben and the London eye, yet Pimlico is away from all the noise. There are so many parks locally too, so lots of green spaces. Brilliant place and highly recommend, and out of the congestion zone.”
Laurissa
“Belgravia is a peaceful and beautiful area with sites and views. It is like a dream come true living in the luxury. it has fun places and it is calm”
Yousif
“Pimlico is very central, and is surrounded by beautiful parks, as well as markets.”
Neil
“Belgravia is a lovely yet high-end area with beautiful parks and squares.”
Saud
“I love this area because there are lots of lovely places to go and you learn about the past.”
maurice
“Victoria is as central as you can be with the amazing Georges Square Park just a few minutes away. Lovely walks and beautiful buildings. I feel at home and wstminster council embrace you like a family would. Amazing surroundings, culture and tourist spots keeps it interesting”
Lauren
“Close to the river, near both Victoria Station and the Chelsea area.”
Qingwei
“Pimlico is a lovely diverse area with people from different walks off life and backgrounds, that has everything to offer, Great ressturants and Bar's (Al Dar, Caffe Concerto,e.g), fantastic transport links, very close to main shopping areas: Oxford & Regent St, Knightsbridge (Harrods), Kings Rd and High St Kensington. all of these benefits makes Pimlico a lovely area to live in.”
Jordan
“Walking distance to all the action one way, and the peace of the park the other!”
Joanne
“Eccleston Square is by far the best part of Pimlico. Private gardens with Tennis Courts along with a 60 second walk to Victoria or across Eccleston Bridge to Belgravia. Atmosphere in Pimlico is both quiet and busy depending on if you are on a square of main road.”
Local resident
Activities near SW1
Belgravia Sunday Lunch
Richard Hadfield’s rise to prominence began with his win on Britain’s Got Talent as part of the chart-topping vocal harmony group Collabro. Their debut album soared to No. 1 in the UK and Japan, dethroning Ed Sheeran and cementing their international fame. Since then, Richard has embarked on a successful solo career, gracing legendary venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, The Royal Albert Hall and The Iridium in New York City. This Sunday Jazz Lunch pairs Boisdale’s exceptional three-course roast menu featuring free-range Scottish beef, Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables, with Richard’s renditions of jazz standards. Classics such as “Mack The Knife”, “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” are brought to life with soulful interpretations that blend timeless charm with modern sophistication. "Such A Beautiful Tone" Amanda Holden "His Succulent Vocals Tease The Melodies And Give The Illusion That You Are Hearing A Song For The Very First Time" The Sweet London Life “Richard Hadfield Captures The Soul Of Jazz With A Modern Elegance That’s Truly Captivating” Jazz Café LiveRead more
Wayne Hernandez
Wayne Hernandez Brings Soul, Jazz And Funk To Life. His Voice Carries Warmth, Depth And Raw Emotion, Captivating Audiences From Grand Concert Halls To Intimate Jazz Clubs. Each Performance Is A Journey, Rich With Rhythm And Feeling. Whether Fronting A Full Band Or Slowing Things Down With A Tender Ballad, Wayne Owns The Stage. His Presence Is Magnetic And His Artistry Runs Deep. See Him Live And Feel The Music Hit You Where It Matters. Joining Him On This Special Night Are Emrys Baird And His Trio, Signed To Japan’s P-Vine Records And Celebrated Both At Home And Internationally. They’ll Be Joined By The Exceptional Dee Byrne On Alto Sax, Promising Fiery Solos And Real On-Stage Chemistry.Read more
Members Conservation Tour
Go behind the scenes with our Conservation team
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
When New York City teenager Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek god, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined.Read more
Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover Tour
Embark on a dazzling adventure to the picturesque British countryside! Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of castles, cathedrals, and the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover. Prepare to be enchanted as you behold the magnificence of Leeds Castle and the grandeur of Canterbury Cathedral. Let your eyes feast on the enchanting scenic landscapes of stunning Kent! An incredible experience awaits as your expert guide reveals the secrets and stories behind these remarkable treasures. Get your tickets now!Read more
Hadley Fraser
West End star Hadley Fraser – live at Cadogan Hall! For one night only, acclaimed West End and Broadway star Hadley Fraser takes centre stage at Cadogan Hall for his first-ever solo concert, celebrating the launch of his highly anticipated new album, Things That Come and Go. Known for his unforgettable performances in Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, City of Angels and Young Frankenstein, Hadley brings his signature voice and storytelling prowess to this special evening. Joining him as special guests are Maiya Quansah-Breed, Natalie May Paris and Rosalie Craig, adding even more star power to this unmissable event. Featuring brand-new songs from his upcoming album – produced by Fraser himself alongside Donald L. Anderson for Palm Haven Studios, with arrangements and co-production by Sam Young –this exclusive event will also include some of Hadley’s favorite classics. Presented in association with ADAMA Entertainment and WestWay Music, the team behind concerts for Jamie Muscato and Lucie Jones, this is a night not to be missed. Early booking is highly recommended—secure your seat now!Read more
A London Theatre Celebration Of The Life And Work Of Athol Fugard
Join us for a special evening honouring the life and legacy of Athol Fugard (11 June 1932 – 8 March 2025), South Africa’s Lifetime Achievement Tony Award-winning playwright and a towering figure in world theatre. The Royal Court’s relationship with Fugard began over half a century ago, in 1973, when the theatre proudly presented the international premieres of his groundbreaking anti-apartheid plays — Sizwe Banzi is Dead, The Island, and Statements After an Arrest Under the Immorality Act. Sizwe Banzi and The Island later transferred to Broadway, where co-creators and performers John Kani OBE and Zakes Mokae were awarded Best Actor Tony Awards. Hosted by David Byrne, Artistic Director of the Royal Court, and curated by Greg Karvellas, former Artistic Director of The Fugard Theatre in Cape Town (2010–2021), this celebration will feature John Kani OBE, Dame Janet Suzman, and others on stage, with reflections, live performance extracts, and recorded excerpts from Athol Fugard himself. Tickets are £5 and available through the Royal Court website, including a post-show toast with a glass of South African wine and — for meat eaters — biltong, two of Athol’s favourites. Supported by the Common Humanity Arts Trust (CHAT)Read more
About SW1
SW1 is the postcode district in South West London incorporating the areas of Whitehall and Buckingham Palace, the areas between Buckingham Gate and Victoria Station, the areas east of Buckingham Gate, the triangular area between Victoria Station, the Houses of Parliament, and Vauxhall Bridge; eastern part of Pimlico, the triangular area between Vauxhall Bridge, Chelsea Bridge, and Victoria Station; Pimlico proper, the areas of Belgravia, the area between Sloane Square and Victoria Station, south of Kings Road, the areas of Belgravia, north of Kings Road, Knightsbridge (part) and the areas of St. James's. SW1 is split further into the following smaller postcodes of SW1A, SW1E, SW1H, SW1P, SW1V, SW1W, SW1X, SW1Y.
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Feedback about living in SW1 has been submitted directly by the public and may not necessarily reflect the views of Foxtons. The description of SW1 was modified from Wikipedia and is available under the Creative Commons licence. Land Registry data is Crown copyright. All the views and contributions contained within Foxtons Local Life are those of the contributors. All content is assessed before publishing for taste, however free opinion is encouraged. Foxtons accept no payment or sponsorship for content that is posted about SW1.