Burlington Arcade
A precursor of the modern shopping mall, Burlington Arcade remains
one of London's favourite shopping areas nearly two centuries after
it was built by Samuel Ware (1815-1819). The arcade was the brainchild
of Lord George Cavendish, later Earl of Burlington, who envisioned
a covered area where Londoners could shop for jewellry and other fashionable
appurtenances.
From the day it first opened in 1819, Burlington Arcade has remained
one of the premier London shopping area, especially appealing to fashion
conscious customers.
The Beadles
A Burlington Arcade tradition, the Beadles are uniformed guards, initially
drawn by Lord Cavendish from the 10th Hussars regiment to act as deterrents
to the lower classes, and keep Burlington Arcade safe from rowdy or
undesireable influences. The original mandate of The Beadles was very
strict; they were bid to suppress singing, hurrying, and even humming,
within the arcade precincts! The Beadles dress in severe Edwardian
costume; with frock coats, and top hats resplendant in gold braid.
Their task today, as it has been for two centuries, is to keep the
arcade a place of decorum and peace amid the bustle of London.
In keeping with Lord Cavendish's original vision for Burlington Arcade,
modern shoppers can come to find antique and modern jewellery, silverware,
pewter, connoisseur writing materials, antique maps, Irish linen and
many more fashionable and unique items.
Location
Picadilly
W1J OHH
Location
map
Green
Park,Picadilly
website
