A Story of Home Marylebone Area Guide
From humble beginnings, Marylebone has become one of London’s most popular and fashionable districts. The Domesday book of 1068 recorded Marylebone as a collection of muddy fields with less than 50 residents and a value of just 52 shillings. How things have changed!
Marylebone as we know it today began to come together 1750s when Henry Portman and his son began issuing new land leases, most notably to a certain William Baker. Can you guess the street he built?
With the help of famous architects such as the Adams brothers, the Portman Estate continued developing Harley Street, Portland Place, Montagu and Bryanston Square. In 1879, the fifth Duke of Portland died, leaving no heirs. The estate was then passed to his sister, a widow of the 6th Baron Howard de Walden, and that area became known as the Howard de Walden Estate.
Under the stewardship of both The Portman Estate and the Howard de Walden Estate, Marylebone Village was created. It is a vibrant community, based around a carefully curated haven of shops, restaurants, hotels and cultural institutions.
Here is the SoH. guide to all things wonderful in Marylebone.
SHOP TILL YOU DROP AT TRUNK
Retail therapy is probably one of the most popular Marylebone pursuits. With Oxford Street on the doorstop, it goes without saying that you are spoilt for choice. Marylebone has built a reputation for the best independent shops, safely tucked away from the mobs swarming around Topshop.
Described by its founder Mats Klingberg, “Trunk is a menswear store for those looking to discover a worldly, contemporary take on classic style. From sharp tailoring to cosy knitwear, we present a considered edit of quality, wearable clothes and accessories from around the globe.”
What more can we say? Well maybe that it’s located on Chiltern Street, voted by Condé Nast Traveller as ‘London’s Coolest Street’.
Trunk, 8 Chiltern St, Marylebone, London, W1U 7PU
ANTIQUES & APEROL SPRITZ
A short walk from Marylebone station, you will find Alfie’s Antique Market that was founded over 40 years ago. Split over four floors and 35,000 sq ft. it is set up in the style of a traditional arcade, with over 100 dealers offering everything from antique jewellery, vintage fashion, art, collectables, interior furnishings, textiles, ceramics, glass and silverware.
On the top of this beautiful Egyptian-style art-deco building is a rooftop kitchen and café. A truly hidden oasis in the middle of the city which is basked in sunlight for most of the day. We love the vegan burger and a cold bottle of beer on a sunny summer’s day.
Alfie’s Antique Market, 13 – 25 Church St, Marylebone, London NW8 8DT
“A vibrant community living around carefully curated haven of shops, restaurants, hotels and cultural institutions.”
MONKEY BUSINESS
Of course, if you’re feeling bouji, Chiltern Firehouse is classic choice. But for a more budget-friendly option, try Monkey & Me. Loved by locals, Monkey & Me serves up authentic Thai classics, best washed down with a Chang beer. Don’t forget to book as the restaurant is regularly full.
Monkey & Me, 114-115 Crawford Street, Marylebone, London, W1H 2JQ
C’EST LA VIE
Walking down Marylebone High Street you would be forgiven for thinking you are in the centre of Paris, rather than the centre of London. Popular with French expats working in the capital, the high street is dotted with the same boutiques you would expect to find in Le Marais, from Sandro, to Claudie Pierlot and Maje. If French fashion isn’t your thing, try Anthropologie, where it’s easy to lose yourself browsing bohemian-inspired interiors, clothes, gifts and accessories.
ANYONE FOR A WEE DRAM?
A few doors down from Trunk is a shop you might think is a bit out of place, it is however one of the most popular shops on Chiltern Street. It does not sell, art, jewellery or high fashion, but arguably Scotland’s finest export, whisky!
Cadenhead’s Whiskey Shop specialises in Scottish whiskey but also more rare breads from Japan, India and France. Cadenhead’s also has an on-site tasting room. Yum!
Cadenhead’s Whiskey Shop, 26 Chiltern St, Marylebone, London, W1U 7QF
PASS THE PADRON
Taking its name from the city San Sebastian in North West Spain Donostia is a small intimate restaurant that can sit 40 guests. Working from an open kitchen, the chefs serve Basque inspired tapas and pintxo dishes using seasonal ingredients.
Donostia, 10 Seymour Place, Marylebone, London W1H 7ND
MARKETS GALORE
Every Sunday there is a fantastic farmer’s market just off Marylebone High Street, behind Waitrose, selling fresh produce and tasty treats. On Saturdays there is another open-air market between St. Marylebone Church and The Conran Shop featuring vintage clothes, jewellery and second-hand designer fashion. Great place to pick up a bargain!
St. Marylebone Parish Church Grounds, Marylebone High Street, Marylebone Village, London W1U 5BA
“A true Marylebone institution. Located on Marylebone Lane this deli has been in the Rothe family since 1900”
BACON & BANANA?
Paul Rothe & Sons is a true Marylebone institution. Located on Marylebone Lane, this deli has been in the Rothe family since 1900 and is renowned for its homemade sandwiches. Most weekdays you will see office working and locals queuing up outside for their lunch. At Paul Rothe & Sons no sandwich is too weird! Trust us, ask for the banana and bacon.
Paul Rothe & Sons, 35 Marylebone Lane, Marylebone, London, W1U 2NN
“Chiltern Street, voted by Condé Nast Traveller as ‘London’s Coolest Street’.”
CULTURE VULTURE
Being in the heart of London’s West End, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to cultural pursuits. The Wallace Collection, The Royal Academy , Wigmore Hall and Regents Park Open Air Theatre are all on your doorstep. Our top tip is to visit The Wallace Collection on Manchester Square. After walking around the staggeringly beautiful exhibition showcasing 18th and 19th Century art, head for coffee and cake in their restaurant. You will not be disappointed.
