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Burlington Arcade runs down the
side of Burlington House, now home of the Royal
Academy of Arts.
It is the most celebrated
of three 19th century arcades situated along Piccadilly (the
other two are the Princes and Piccadilly Arcades on the south
side of the street).
These indoor arcades represent
a pleasant haven away from the constant traffic of Piccadilly
and are noted for their marvellous selection of expensive,
luxury, goods.
Burlington Arcade was built in
1819 by Lord George Cavendish, to prevent passersby throwing
rubbish into his garden.
Uniformed beadles were employed
to patrol the arcade, to discourage unruly behaviour and ensure
a refined atmosphere was maintained. Beadles are still
employed today and have the authority to eject anyone who
runs, carries large packages, opens an umbrella, whistles,
hums or sings.
However, these powers are rarely
invoked nowadays as the dictates of commerce take precedence
over Regency decorum.
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