Henrietta Street in London, England: An 18th Century Artists Community

If you are looking for something different on your next visit to London, England, take a visit to Henrietta Street. This street once houses a number of popular writers, publishers, artists, and even businessmen. While many of the old pubs are no longer around, there are new restaurants and sights to see. No matter where you are on Henrietta Street in London, you will see signs of its 18th century heritage.

Henrietta Street in London, England: The history

Henrietta Street in London, England got its start in 1632, when innovative architect Inigo Jones wanted to build a hip urban area. The street was named after Queen Henrietta Maria. From the beginning, Henrietta Street was home to a diverse mix of people, from nobles to artists. At one time, Jane Austen's brother Henry lived on Henrietta Street. Other residents with connections to the day's popular artists included George Orwell's publisher and Virginia Woolf's step-brother. Famous painter Samuel Cooper also made his home on Henrietta Street during its early days.

Henrietta Street in London, England: Pubs and barroom brawls

The 18th century brought pubs and brawling to Henrietta Street in London. At the time, there were five different pubs located on the street, leading to many confrontations both inside the establishments and out in the street itself. The most well-known of these Henrietta Street feuds occurred between Captain Thomas Matthews and playwright Richard Sheridan at the Castle Tavern. It is believed that the two were fighting over a love interest for the second time.

Henrietta Street in London, England: Publishers and coffee houses

Besides the pubs, Henrietta Street was also home to many coffee houses, much like it is today. Even in the 18th century, there were several coffee houses to choose from on the street. Publishing houses were also a common sight along Henrietta Street in London, England during the 18th century. The arts community was well represented on the street, with the Royal Society of Arts being founded in the area in 1754.

Henrietta Street in London, England: Modern-day Henrietta

Today, Henrietta Street has become more civilized and you will not see a barroom brawl spread out into the street. It has retained some of its original artsy atmosphere even though some of the publishing companies have moved on to new locations. George Orwell's publisher's office is long-gone, along with Henry Austen's bank, but you will still see plenty of old-style buildings. The pubs of the 18th century have been updated to more modern restaurants, with Porter's English Restaurant being one of the top picks along Henrietta Street in London, England.