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Wells Street, London: History, architecture & top places to visit

Wells Street
Wells St

Running through the heart of Fitzrovia, Wells Street is one of those central London streets people often walk past without really noticing. Look a little closer and you’ll find historic buildings, long-standing pubs and cultural venues, all within a short stretch near Oxford Circus and Soho. This guide explores Wells Street’s history, architecture, and the top places worth visiting today.

The origins of Wells Street, London

Wells Street began forming in the late 1700s as Fitzrovia expanded north from Oxford Street. Unlike nearby grand streets, it developed as a practical route, lined with modest townhouses, local shops, and workshops serving residents and workers in the area. Its position between Oxford Circus and the quieter streets behind meant Wells Street gradually became a connector, used daily rather than designed for display. That everyday role explains why the street still feels functional, mixed, and lived-in today.

Architectural landmarks through time

St Andrew’s Church

  • Original location: Wells Street, London W1T, United Kingdom
  • Current location: Kingsbury, North-West London (off Blackbird Hill)
  • Opening hours:
     Monday–Friday: 10:00–16:00
     Sunday: Service times only
  • Price: Free entry

St Andrew’s Church has stood on Wells Street since the 18th century, built to serve the growing residential community of Fitzrovia rather than visitors. The church was heavily damaged during the Second World War and later restored, which explains its mix of historic structure and simpler post-war details. Today, it remains an active parish church, quietly reflecting the everyday history of Wells Street, London.

The Champion Pub

The Champion has been a fixture on Wells Street since the 19th century and remains one of the area’s best-known traditional pubs. Its corner position, dark wood interior, and long bar give it a classic London pub feel, popular with both locals and nearby office workers. The pub also holds a place in British pop culture, having been featured in music and film references over the years.

How to transport to Wells St

Transportation you can take to Wells Street

  • Bus: Several bus routes run along or near Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Tottenham Court Road, all a short walk from Wells Street.
  • Walking: Wells Street is easily reachable on foot from Fitzrovia, Soho, Oxford Street, and Great Portland Street.
  • Cycling: Public cycle hire and private bikes can be used, with nearby streets connected to central London cycling routes.
  • Taxi or ride-hailing services: Black cabs and app-based services provide direct access, with drop-off points available on surrounding streets.

The Tube is the simplest option. Oxford Circus is the closest major station, around a 3–5 minute walk away, while Tottenham Court Road is also within easy walking distance. From either station, Wells Street is clearly signposted and easy to reach.

Several bus routes run along Oxford Street and nearby roads, stopping just minutes from Wells Street. For those walking, the street sits directly between Oxford Street and quieter Fitzrovia roads, making it a natural route if you are already exploring the area.

What line is Wells Street on?

  • Central line: Via Oxford Circus or Tottenham Court Road stations
  • Victoria line: Via Oxford Circus station
  • Bakerloo line: Via Oxford Circus station
  • Northern line: Via Tottenham Court Road or Goodge Street stations
  • Elizabeth line: Via Tottenham Court Road station
  • Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines: Via Great Portland Street station

Wells Street itself is not on a Tube line, but it is served by nearby stations on multiple lines. Oxford Circus connects the Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines, while Tottenham Court Road serves the Central, Northern, and Elizabeth lines. This makes how to get to Wells Street simple from most parts of London.

Best bars & pubs on Wells St

ŌMÍ

Tucked into a quieter stretch of Wells Street, this is the kind of place you come to when you want a proper conversation and a good glass of wine. The focus leans towards natural and low-intervention wines, with a short list that changes regularly rather than trying to cover everything. Inside, the space feels pared-back and relaxed, attracting locals who prefer somewhere understated over a busy Soho bar. It works equally well for a calm pre-dinner drink or a low-key evening stop.

 

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The Champion

Sitting right on the corner of Wells Street, this long-standing pub is known for its classic London feel and lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. Inside, you’ll find dark wood interiors, a spacious bar, and a strong drinks selection that attracts a mix of locals, office workers, and football fans. It stands out for its size and energy compared to other nearby spots, making it a reliable choice when Wells Street feels quiet elsewhere.

Adam & Eve

Just a little further along Wells Street, this pub feels more relaxed and neighbourhood-focused than the busier corner spots. Inside, the space is smaller and more intimate, with a mix of traditional pub décor and a steady local crowd throughout the week. It stands out as a good option if you want a quieter pint or a casual drink without the football-night buzz found elsewhere nearby.

 

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WatchHouse Fitzrovia

Walking along Wells Street in the morning, this is one of the cafés locals naturally drift into. WatchHouse Fitzrovia is known for well-made coffee and a calm, modern space that works just as well for a quick takeaway as a short sit-down. It’s an easy, reliable stop before continuing towards Oxford Circus or exploring the rest of Fitzrovia.

 

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ROVI

From the moment you step inside, the open kitchen sets the tone for a lively, informal meal. ROVI is best known for vegetable-led dishes cooked over fire, alongside fresh pasta and plates designed for sharing. The atmosphere stays warm and relaxed, which suits an unhurried dinner on Wells Street rather than a formal night out.

 

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Shopping spots on Wells Street and nearby

Noble Furs | Professional Furrier in London

Along this part of Wells Street, you’ll find a business that has been working quietly behind the scenes for decades. Noble Furs specialises in fur garments, alterations, and storage, attracting clients who know exactly what they are looking for rather than casual browsers. The shop feels more like a private atelier than a typical retail space, which sets it apart from most nearby stores.

 

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CameraWorld

For anyone into photography, this part of Wells Street feels refreshingly practical. CameraWorld focuses on cameras, lenses, and accessories, with staff who know the products well and are used to answering detailed questions. It’s the sort of place people come to when they want advice or a specific piece of kit, rather than just browsing.

 

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Marks & Spencer

Just a short walk from Wells Street, this Oxford Street branch is often where locals head for reliable basics. Marks & Spencer is best known for its food hall, underwear, and everyday clothing, making it useful for picking up essentials rather than browsing for trends. Its proximity works well if you are already exploring Wells Street London and want something practical without going far.

 

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Beyond Retro Soho

If you enjoy browsing without a plan, this is the kind of shop that rewards a bit of time. Beyond Retro Soho is known for its large mix of vintage clothing, from denim and jackets to statement pieces you don’t often see on the high street. It’s a popular stop for people looking for something different after exploring Wells Street, especially if you like discovering pieces with a bit of character.

 

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Other iconic spots on Wells Street and nearby

The Cartoon Museum

Just off the busier end of Wells Street, this small museum focuses on British cartoons, comics, and illustration. The Cartoon Museum offers rotating exhibitions that explore political cartoons, graphic novels, and animation, often highlighting lesser-known artists alongside familiar names. It’s an easy stop if you want something cultural without committing to a large museum visit.

The Photographers’ Gallery

A short walk from Wells Street leads to one of London’s most respected spaces dedicated entirely to photography. The Photographers’ Gallery hosts regularly changing exhibitions that range from contemporary work to historical archives, spread across several floors. It suits visitors who enjoy visual culture and want something more focused than a large national museum.

The London Palladium

Theatre history runs deep in this part of the West End, and few venues are as closely associated with it as The London Palladium. Known for hosting major musicals, live shows, and televised performances, the theatre has played a central role in London’s entertainment scene for generations. Its proximity to Wells Street makes it easy to include a show night as part of a wider Fitzrovia or Soho visit.

If you’re looking to enjoy more dining and entertainment options near Wells Street, London, we suggest heading to Oxford Street and checking out our detailed guide.