Londonist's Back Passage

M@
By M@ Last edited 208 months ago
Londonist's Back Passage
shepherdmarket.jpg

17. Shepherd Market

Where? A little north-east of fragrant Hyde Park Corner. Built on the site of the ancient May Fairs, after which the wider area is named.

What? A charming conglomeration of pokey eateries, thrusting awnings and cluttered passages, all colleced under the one name. The result is the most atmospheric of Mayfair's many antiquated enclaves.

Why use? Bask in a piece of semi-genuine old English lovliness, without the usual tourist hordes. Can get busy in the summer, though.

Also good for? Pubs (again!!). Ye Grapesand the King's Arms are two of the area's finest if you catch them at the right time. Also, prozzies. In situ for generations; and even by appointment to a certain former Mayoral candidate. There was still a touch of the sordid on our visit, with prominent canvases of luxuriously splayed nudes in a local gallery window.

Last Updated 30 November 2006