Burlington Arcade
London W1

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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