Piccadilly Circus
About Piccadilly Circus
The bustling road junction and public space at the heart of the West End, famous for its dazzling illuminated advertising screens, the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and its statue of Eros.
History & Heritage
Piccadilly Circus was created in 1819 to connect the shopping street of Piccadilly with Regent Street, then being laid out by John Nash as part of his grand plan for the West End. The word 'circus' refers to the round open space at a street junction. Its shape changed over the following century as roads were widened and the surrounding buildings rebuilt, and it grew into one of London's busiest and most famous intersections.
The illuminated advertising signs first appeared in the early 20th century and have become an icon in their own right, evolving from painted panels and neon to today's single vast curved digital display. At the centre stands the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain of 1893, topped by a winged figure popularly known as Eros — though the sculptor intended it to represent Anteros, the Angel of Christian Charity.
What to Expect
Expect noise, crowds and the buzz of the West End at its most energetic, especially after dark when the giant screens light up the junction. The steps beneath the statue of Eros are a traditional meeting spot and people-watching perch. From here you are moments from Theatreland, the shops of Regent Street, the restaurants of Soho and Chinatown, and the bright lights of Leicester Square — making it a natural hub for a night out.
Known For
Highlights
- Giant curved billboard
- Statue of Eros
- Theatreland gateway
- Shopping streets
- People-watching steps
- Neon at night
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Piccadilly Circus famous?
- Piccadilly Circus is famous for its huge illuminated advertising screens, its central statue of Eros, and its position at the heart of the West End close to Theatreland, Soho and Leicester Square.
- Is the statue really Eros?
- The winged figure atop the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain is popularly called Eros, but the sculptor Alfred Gilbert intended it to represent Anteros, the Angel of Christian Charity.
- What is near Piccadilly Circus?
- Piccadilly Circus sits within a short walk of Regent Street, Soho, Chinatown, Leicester Square, the theatres of the West End and the shops of Piccadilly.
More London Landmarks
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
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Buckingham Palace
The London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, famous for its balcony appearances, the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the opulent State Rooms opened to visitors each summer.
Westminster Abbey
A magnificent Gothic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the coronation church of English and British monarchs since 1066, and the burial place of kings, poets and scientists.