Burlington Arcade

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 jewellery 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 undesirable 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 resplendent 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.