subject: Piccadilly Circus - for exciting shopping possibilities [print this page] Piccadilly Circus - for exciting shopping possibilities
One of the most popular residential areas in London, Piccadilly Circus belongs to the City of Westminster. This pulsating area is also one of the busiest shopping destinations in the country. Colourful and full of energy, Piccadilly Circus was founded in 1819 to connect the Piccadilly shopping district with Regent Street. Similar to Piccadilly Circus, Regent Street is home to a variety of splendid shopping options such as Banana Republic, Aquascutum, Burberry, D&A Opticians, Duchamp, the Ferrari Store, filoFax, Govida, Guess, Hackett London, Hawes & Curtis, Lacoste, Jaeger, Liberty, The Pen Shop, Hamleys and Hobbs among countless other high-end branded boutiques.
The name Piccadilly Circus was given to the junction many decades ago due to the fact that a very skilful tailor lived in this area. This tailor was especially gifted in producing piccadils (frilled collars worn by men with a suit). Created by one John Nash, the circus is one of the most recognisable places in London. The Shaftsbury Memorial Fountain is the central attraction of the area which was originally constructed in memory of the great Lord Shaftsbury himself. Years later the statue was renamed after the god of beauty and love according to ancient Greek mythology, Eros.
The iconic billboards which add colour and character to the surroundings were first installed after 1895 when the Shaftsbury Avenue was opened attracting many visitors to the area. These massive billboards are in fact what have made the plaza a famous tourist stop and has given it a status comparable to New York's Times Square. While visitors to the plaza may find a number of great shopping outlets at this very location itself such as Piccadilly Souvenirs, Co & Co Jewellery, Simply Gem, Crest of London, Octopus and John English, a plethora of shopping options are located at Shaftsbury Avenue and Regent Street as well. Visitors on the lookout for a fine restaurant will be able to choose from a range of superb options for a satisfying meal.
Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge offers accommodation for guests who seek an exceptional four star hotel London. This London hotel boasts several great dining options with outstanding service and delectable menus serving delicacies from around the world.
