Oxford street

Oxford street is one of the major road in central London. Stretching from Marble arch to Tottenham court road Oxford street is the most iconic shopping street in London. This is also the busiest shopping street in Europe. With Half of million daily visitors, Oxford street has approximately 300 shops including Selfridge, Primark, John Lewis and many other famous companies’ stores.

Roman times and Middle ages

The history starts in Roman times as Oxford street we know today is part of the Via Trinobantina. The Via Trinobantina is the Roman road linking Essex and Hampshire. It becomes a major route of in and out Londinium. The Via Trinobantina is an open air market for cattle, fish and vegetables. It’s already a trading spot back in that time. But during the Middle ages the history it becomes known for public executions for prisoners until 1783.

A village stands at the junction of Edgware road and Oxford street called Tyburn. The first mention dates back from the 12th Century. Tyburn road is the name of Oxford street during the Middle ages. Prisoners walk by Tyburn road to reach the wooden gallows near a place known today as Marble arch. However the name of the street changes through the time. Names such as The Waye to Uxbridge, Oxford Road, King’s Highway and the Road to Oxford until the 17th Century. The street becomes at this time known for entertainment notably with the Pantheon where the M&S store stands today.

The late 18th Century until now

Following its grim history the street becomes at this time known for entertainment notably with the Pantheon where the M&S store stands today. Oxford street gradually turns into a merchant street as more and more businesses open. Retailers start to thrive with the construction of the underground during the 19th Century. The transformation throughout the 19th Century made it into an unmissable street to visit. It’s today the trendiest avenue of the British capital. You can find luxury stores, souvenir stores, restaurants and much more!