Burlington Arcade
Burlington Arcade is a posh shopping mall off Piccadilly. It is one of the most famous arcades in London – run by ‘Beadles’ in top-hat and tails.
When it was built back in the 1820s, old members of the 10th Hussars were hired to keep the public under control as it used to back onto Burlington House (now the Royal Academy of Arts), so peace and quiet was preferred. These days the Hussars have gone, and have been replaced with the less scary ‘Beadles’.
Burlington Berties
The Beadles, or Burlington Berties, are kitted out in top hats and tails – long Edwardian frock coats that reach below their knees. They may look friendly, but beware of their draconian rules: they’ll have you for singing, whistling and chewing gum. (And for christ’s sake, please don’t run through with an open umbrella!)
Facts and information
- Address:
- Burlington Arcade, 51 Piccadilly, Mayfair,
London W1
England - Telephone:
- Work +44 (0) 207 630 1411
- Fax:
- Fax +44 (0) 207 233 5889
- Bus route:
- 3 6 8 9 12 13 14 15 19 22 23 38 88 94 139 159 453 C2
- Train station:
- Green Park JB PC VC, Piccadilly Circus BK PC
- Opening times:
- 9.30–5.30 (Mon–Fri); 10–6 (Sat)
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