Londonist's Back Passage

18. Princes Arcade

Where? One of several upper-class tunnels in SW1. This one connects Jermyn Street to the A4 (or Piccadilly to you and me).

What? Ah, a scene straight off of a Victorian Christmas card. But appearances can be deceiving. Princes Arcade was the last such thoroughfare to be built in the area and dates from as late as 1933.

Why use? Festive shopping. And if ever a hall was decked with boughs of holly, this is it. You'll find shop after shop of luxury-class tat for the toff who has everything. Take these, for example. An ideal gift for fans of dogs in period military costume.

Also good for? Arguments about apostrophes.

Coming over Christmas: You asked for it, and now you're going to get it. When this column returns in the new year, we'll have every passage mapped, to cater for all your skulking needs and pleasures.