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One of Londons most noteworthy streets, Regent Street marks the eastern boundary of Mayfair and is known the world over as a famous shopping destination. Crossing popular destinations such as Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street runs from Regents residence at Carlton House in St Jamess at the southern end, through to All Souls Church just to the north of Oxford Street.
Named after the Prince Regent, the street was completed in 1825 and represents one of the earliest examples of town planning in England. The street is commonly associated with architect John Nash, who designed the route and buildings on the street as a compliment to the Prince Regent. As London entered the 20th century, the early 19th century of Nashs designs fell out of vogue and the street was rebuilt in Beaux Arts style between 1898 and 1930. Indeed, today all of Nashs original buildings except All Souls Church have been replaced. Celebrated for the high degree of architectural uniformity, every building in Regent Street is protected as a Listed Building, at least Grade II status. Together all the Regent Street buildings form the Regent Street Conservation Area, which was first designated in 1973 and extended in 1984.
As one Londons most favoured shopping havens, Regent Street plays host to some of the worlds most recognized retail giants. The list of many shops lining this elegant street includes the Apple retail store, the flagship store of Austin Reed, super-sized toy store Hamleys and Tudor-style department store Liberty. Of course, with Soho on its east and Mayfair to its west and the shopping thoroughfares of Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Bond Street in ridiculously close proximity, dedicated shoppers should find enough inspiration to last a lifetime in and around Regent Street.
During the festive season, Regent Street gets a seasonal makeover and is decked out with Christmas and winter decorations, adding to the delightful year-round atmosphere of this attractive street. The tradition of decorating Regent Street for Christmas dates to 1948, when the Regent Street Association lined the street with Christmas trees. Lighting was allowed in 1949, after wartime restrictions were lifted, with the first full street lighting occurring in 1953. Each year, the display is different, switched on during an opening ceremony in early November.
World class shopping with some history to boot, Regent Street is an excellent destination. With the Tube stations Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus conveniently located along its grand course (as well as a handful of other nearby stations), it is an ideal spot to discover and a great place for meeting up with friends.
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