Oxford Street

Oxford Street in 1875

Oxford Street is a major road in the City of Westminster in the West End of London. It runs for approximately two and a half kilometres from Marble Arch at the north east corner of Hyde Park, to St Giles Circus, at the intersection with Charing Cross Road and Tottenham Court Road. Roughly halfway along Oxford Street is Oxford Circus, a busy intersection with Regent Street.

Oxford Street follows the route of a Roman road. For 500 years up until the late 18th century Oxford Street was known as Tyburn Street. The street’s present name comes from the Earl of Oxford who, in the late 18th century, bought up much of the surrounding land in order to develop it. It became popular with entertainers. During the 19th century, the area became known for its shops.

1960's AEC Routemaster Double Decker in black