Piccadilly Circus tops the list of one of the most popular and vibrant public squares in London. A world-class destination to explore in the capital city, it’s known for its theatre district, high-end dining options galore, lit-up advertising signs and upbeat vibes! Read on to know some interesting facts that suggest why Piccadilly Circus is synonymous with London’s rich past and culture!
The Origin of the Unique Name
The history of Piccadilly dates to 1612 when the respected tailor Roger Baker became famous for ‘piccadillies’ made by him! Given his contribution to making the old-fashioned lace collar, the residents of the area began to refer to the tailor’s house as Piccadilly. Also, the name ‘Circus’ in the popular square’s name comes from a Latin word which signifies a roundabout at a street junction. Book an impeccable stay at The Piccadilly London West End, a boutique retreat in the heart of London perfect for all travellers.
The Sculpture of Eros Isn’t Eros!
The official name of the iconic Eros statue in Piccadilly is the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain! In fact, at times it is also known by the name ‘The Angel of Christian Charity.’ The sculpture was built in the year 1893 to commemorate the renowned philanthropist, Lord Shaftesbury. Also, the statue was temporarily removed during the Second World War and replaced by hoardings for its safety. The sculpture made its return to Piccadilly Circus in the year 1948.
The Underground Theatre
The Criterion Theatre in Piccadilly Circus is the only theatre in the West End to be located almost entirely underground. First opened in 1873, it housed a comic opera in the early years. Almost a decade after its opening, the theatre was renovated to meet the standards of the Metropolitan Board of Works. The building surrounding the theatre was finally extensively rebuilt but the well-preserved Victorian auditorium, near the luxurious Piccadilly Hotel London, still stands today.
The Police Post
On the western side of Piccadilly Circus, you’ll find a vintage police public call post at the junction between Regent Street and Piccadilly. As you reserve your London West End stay package, make sure to add this police post to your list! It is one of the only ones in the capital out of a total of 685 that were operating during the peak 1960s. It was introduced in the 1930s and was used by the public to summon help and the Metropolitan Police of that time!
The Ballet of Change
The only film to be broadcast on the iconic advertising screens in Piccadilly Circus was the Ballet of Change. This four-film series was directed and produced by Paul Atherton, with each film focusing on a world-famous landmark in London, one of which was Piccadilly Circus. The final film in the progressive series is the only 4-minute-long film to be broadcast on the Coca-Cola Billboard!
No visit to London is complete without experiencing the charm of Piccadilly Circus. So, look out for discount hotels in West End London and get exploring!
