Historic Shops Of St James's

Dating back to the 1660s, this bustling enclave is home to Londons oldest shops, selling everything from bowler hats to artisan cheeses

- Adam Jacot De Boinod

If you’re ever in London and find yourself in need of a walking cane, bowler hat or a case of claret, head to St James’s. This distinctive neighbourhood of central London, home to some of the city’s finest old shops, has a history dating back centuries.

In the early 1660s, one Henry Jermyn, 1st Earl of St Albans, was granted land from Charles II, with which he developed an aristocratic residential area. St James’s Square, lined with fine houses, was the centre of the district, with King Street, Charles II Street and Duke of York Street leading off from it.

In the 19th century, St James’s became associated with gentlemen’s clubs – Brooks’s, Boodle’s and White’s being the best known for the landed gentry. This small neighbourhood had everything required for gentlemen to be gentlemen, from fine wine and fine art to tailored suits and cigars.