Ever wondered where some of London's more unusual street names come from?
Prior to the nineteenth century, street names were typically generic and descriptive, usually named after the goods sold in them e.g. Bread Street. Thereafter it became commonplace for streets to bear the name of renowned figures from British history. But while it is obvious where some streets derive their names, others have been corrupted over the centuries and have altogether less obvious roots.
Sometimes, delving into the history of a street name can reveal much about the former inhabitants of the area or about historic events which took place there. You may be surprised to discover where some names originate from!
Below we have compiled a list of some of London's most historic streets and uncovered the likely origins of their names.