Regent Street facts for kids
![]() Looking north along Regent Street in April 2011, with Union Flags hung to celebrate the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
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Namesake | George, Prince Regent of the United Kingdom |
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Maintained by | Transport for London |
Location | London, United Kingdom |
Nearest tube station |
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Construction | |
Other | |
Designer | John Nash, James Burton |
Known for |
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Regent Street is a famous shopping street in London, England. It's a popular spot for both Londoners and visitors from all over the world. During Christmas, the street lights up with amazing decorations.
The street is named after Prince Regent, who later became King George IV.
A famous architect named John Nash designed Regent Street. Even though the street's original layout is still there, almost all the buildings have been rebuilt. The only original building left is All Souls Church.
Every building on Regent Street is considered special and protected by law. This whole area is called the Regent Street Conservation Area.
You might even know Regent Street from the board game Monopoly! It's one of the streets you can buy in the United Kingdom version.
Contents
History of Regent Street
Regent Street was built between 1811 and 1825. It was part of a big plan by John Nash to connect the Prince Regent's home, Carlton House, with Regent's Park. The street was meant to be a grand path for the Prince Regent to travel.
Who designed Regent Street?
The main designer was John Nash. He planned the overall shape and look of the street. Another important person was James Burton. He built most of the buildings on the street.
Why was it rebuilt?
Most of the buildings on Regent Street were rebuilt between 1895 and 1927. This happened because the original buildings were getting old and needed repairs. Also, shops wanted bigger and more modern spaces. The new buildings kept the grand style of the original design.
Shopping and Fun
Regent Street is known for its many shops, including famous ones like Liberty and Hamleys, a huge toy store. There's also a large Apple Store here.
Christmas Lights
Every year, Regent Street puts on a fantastic display of Christmas lights. People come from all over to see them. The lights are usually switched on in November, marking the start of the holiday season in London.
Events on the Street
Sometimes, special events happen on Regent Street. For example, in 2004, a Formula One car was driven down the street! This shows how important and famous Regent Street is.
Landmarks and Buildings
Besides the shops, Regent Street has some important buildings.
- All Souls Church: This church is the only building left from John Nash's original design. It's a beautiful church with a round tower.
- Broadcasting House: This building is just north of Regent Street. It's the headquarters for the BBC, which is the United Kingdom's public broadcaster.
- University of Westminster: Part of the University of Westminster is located on Regent Street. Many students study here.
Images for kids
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Panoramic view of Oxford Circus; the location where Oxford Street meets Regent Street
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The Quadrant on Regent Street, leading to Piccadilly Circus
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Broadcasting House is immediately north of the top end of Regent Street, and has been used by the BBC since 1932
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Nigel Mansell driving a Jordan Formula One car on Regent Street in 2004
See also
In Spanish: Regent Street para niños