Reasons to buy near London’s Baker Street

For many people, the name Baker Street brings one figure to mind. The Victorian super-sleuth, Sherlock Homes lived at number 221b – making it possibly the most famous fictional address in history.

Whether or not you’re a fan of the deerstalker-wearing detective, Baker Street and surrounding Marylebone, have plenty to offer. Marylebone has a distinctly village feel coupled with close proximity to the West End. With stunning architecture and bags of history, it’s also home to some of London’s best restaurants.

There are many reasons to choose to live near Baker Street, here are five good ones.

1. For it’s fascinating history

Baker Street was named after William Baker, the builder who first laid it out in the 18th century. In 1835, Madame Tussauds opened up on Baker Street, where it remained for nearly fifty years before moving to its current site on Marylebone Road.

Charles Dickens lived in Marylebone, in the 19th century. Famous residents of Baker Street itself included his fellow Victorian novelists, Arnold Bennet and H G Wells, who both lived in the prestigious mansion block, Chiltern Court, on the Regent’s Park end of the street.

According to the Arthur Conan-Doyle novels, Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr Watson lived at 221b Baker Street from 1881 to 1904. In reality, Baker Street didn’t extend as far as 221b in those days. When York Place became part of Baker Street in the 1930s, a 221b was created. In 1990, the Sherlock Holmes Museum was established at number 239 Baker Street and a blue plaque installed on its wall.

Over the years, Baker Street has been a key London location. In the 1960s, it was home to the Beatles’ Apple Boutique – and to singer Dusty Springfield. For many years, it was the headquarters of Marks & Spencer. British WWII organisation, the Special Operations Executive, was based at number 64 from 1940, assuming the nickname, ‘The Baker Street Irregulars’, after a gang in the Sherlock Holmes stories.

2. Because it’s in the middle of lovely Marylebone

Baker Street is right beside Marylebone village, boasting beautiful Georgian architecture and intimate squares of terraced properties. The area is known for its world-class restaurants, including celebrity hangout, the Chiltern Firehouse, the elegant Orrery and Royal China Club, famed for its exceptional Cantonese fare. There are plenty of great bars, pubs and coffee shops too.

You’re just a stone’s throw from the wonders of Selfridges, and all the other nearby Oxford Street and Bond Street shops. But Marylebone High Street has lots to offer shoppers too – in the form of exclusive boutiques and charming delis.

3. You’re just minutes away from Regent’s Park…

Another bonus of living by Baker Street is how close you are to gorgeous Regent’s Park, a true oasis of peace and tranquillity in hectic central London. Just a few minutes’ walk from Baker Street will find you among 400 acres of parkland with play areas and formal gardens – the elegant Queen Mary’s Gardens boast 12,000 roses. You can hire a rowing boat, sample some of the best sports facilities in central London, or take a walk up Primrose Hill for stunning views. Regent’s Park is also home to more than 100 species of wild birds and a healthy hedgehog population.

4.  …or the West End

You can walk from Baker Street to the West End and Covent Garden, or make use of its great transport links. Baker Street station is on the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Hammersmith and City and Metropolitan lines. You can travel by tube to Bond Street in two minutes or walk it in 15 minutes. Canary Wharf is 18 minutes away by Jubilee Line and Stratford, East London is less than half an hour away.

5.  For its community feel

Marylebone has a real community feel – it even has its own summer festival. Organised and funded by The Howard de Walden Estate, it takes place in June and includes a summer film night and street party with food, live music and stalls in aid of charity.

If you are interested in finding out more about living or investing in properties in Baker Street, contact us today.