Great Portland Street sits in a lively pocket of central London, surrounded by culture, business opportunities, and excellent dining options.
Office workers appreciate its fast pace, while those new to the area enjoy the immediate access to transport links, shops, and places to unwind.
The character of Great Portland Street London springs from a mix of historic buildings, modern offices, and a welcoming community vibe.
Here, we break down the essentials for office workers in and around Great Portland Street.
Transport tips, food recommendations, coworking options, local highlights — everything you could possibly need, minutes away from your office.
Whether you’re newly relocating a team or simply looking to make the most of your lunch break, offices in Great Portland Street meets professional needs with a friendly, lively atmosphere that showcases a distinct London charm.
Two business people sitting on a bench in a park
What is Great Portland Street famous for?
Great Portland Street is famous for its role as a professional and cultural connector within the West End.
It’s well known for offices that house media, tech, and creative firms.
BBC Broadcasting House is close by, drawing media professionals and contributing to the dynamic environment.
The area also attracts visitors looking for quick links to nearby attractions like Regent’s Park and Oxford Street.
Shoppers often wander through Great Portland Street on their way to fashionable districts such as Fitzrovia and Marylebone.
The street itself presents a blend of elegant facades and more modern structures, highlighting London’s ability to preserve heritage while embracing new ventures.
You’ll find an array of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants near Great Portland Street, making it an appealing destination for curious foodies and seasoned professionals alike.
Many appreciate the sense of heritage threaded through Great Portland Street’s buildings.
Despite changes over time, its architecture preserves a window into London’s past.
Alongside that heritage, the area’s modern edge shines through coworking spaces and trendy restaurants.
This balance between tradition and innovation cements Great Portland Street’s reputation as a place where ambitious business ventures thrive in a distinctly London setting.
Transport links for Great Portland Street
Great Portland Street is served by excellent transport links, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
The Great Portland Street tube Station is a major hub, providing quick connections to other parts of London.
Numerous bus routes run through the area, offering an alternative means of transport and an opportunity to admire the cityscape at a leisurely pace.
For those who prefer cycling, London's comprehensive cycle network includes several routes that pass through Great Portland Street.
Additionally, several main roads intersect at Great Portland Street, including the A501 (Marylebone Road) and the A5204, providing easy access for road users.
Secure car parks are also available in the area for drivers.
Whether you're commuting, sightseeing, or simply exploring the neighbourhood, the transport options at Great Portland Street ensure that you can get around with ease.
Which tube line is Great Portland Street on?
Great Portland Street Tube Station lies on three lines: the Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City, and Circle lines.
This combination offers a web of connections that spread throughout the city.
A quick ride takes commuters to bustling transport interchanges like King’s Cross, Liverpool Street, or Paddington, giving easy access to national rail services and airports.
Because Great Portland Street Station sits within Zone 1, office workers benefit from shorter journeys and multiple route options.
If you’re visiting clients across London or simply heading home, the station’s prime location saves valuable time during the working day.
How many steps are there at Great Portland Street station?
Great Portland Street Station has escalators and lifts in certain areas, though there are also steps for those who prefer to use them.
The station’s design means the exact number of steps can differ depending on which entrance or exit you use.
In general, there are between 20 to 30 steps in some stairwells, and more where you transition between different platforms.
Transport for London recommends checking access details before travel if you rely on step-free routes.
Many regular commuters find the escalators convenient, though some prefer the exercise gained by taking the stairs.
Entrance to the Marylebone house with white statues and columns on the right
A brief history of Great Portland Street
Today’s Great Portland Street London began to take shape in the 18th century, when forward-thinking urban planners laid out a grid of streets in the Marylebone area.
The third Duke of Portland inspired its name, reflecting the aristocratic heritage that influenced much of the district’s early development.
Over time, new residents brought change, turning what once was a quiet, genteel neighbourhood into a more diverse commercial and residential hub.
By the mid-19th century, Great Portland Street had become a magnet for trade and entrepreneurship.
The opening of Great Portland Street Station in 1863 played a key role, connecting the area to an expanding rail network.
Shops, offices, and small workshops moved in, contributing to a reputation for commerce and creativity.
Period architecture still graces parts of the street, reminding passers-by of those earlier eras.
Renowned architects, such as John Nash, added their unique touch to the street, constructing iconic buildings that added to the tapestry of the area's architectural landscape.
Some buildings suffered damage during World War II, but reconstruction efforts added a fresh layer of architectural styles.
Modern office blocks rose among older terraces, illustrating London’s capacity to rebuild and regenerate.
This mix of old and new remains visible today, shaping Great Portland Street’s identity.
Office workers enjoy the convenience of modern spaces, while history buffs often explore traces of Georgian and Victorian design woven into the streetscape.
Why Great Portland Street is great for office workers
Great Portland Street sits close to the beating heart of London’s business scene.
This makes it ideal for companies seeking a central address without losing that neighbourhood feel.
Many coworking spaces cater to start-ups, freelancers, and established firms, thanks to the street’s excellent connections.
Professionals find it easy to welcome clients from across the city, reinforcing Great Portland Street’s charm as a well-connected business base.
Office workers also appreciate the abundance of amenities.
Coffee shops and takeaways line the route toward Great Portland Street Station, making each morning or afternoon break an opportunity to try something new.
Fitness enthusiasts find gym options readily available, including PureGym Great Portland Street, ensuring lunch-hour workouts or after-office training sessions fit smoothly into a busy day.
For those running errands, the Post Office Great Portland Street is a handy stop, saving time during a hectic schedule.
Need a break from the desk? Regent’s Park is just a short walk away for an outdoor recharge.
And if the commute ever feels repetitive, plenty of bus routes and cycle lanes provide an alternative to the tube.
These practical advantages, combined with the area’s sense of energy, create a thriving environment for today’s workforce.
Our top serviced office space for rent in Great Portland Street
Whether you’re looking for a base for your team or need a flexible workspace to suit your business needs, Great Portland Street offers a variety of office spaces designed to support productivity and creativity.
Landmark, New Cavendish: Offering high-quality office space in a professional setting, Landmark New Cavendish is ideal for businesses looking for a modern, fully-equipped workspace in the heart of London.
Brock House: A stunning, creative space that encourages collaboration, Brock House offers fully serviced offices that cater to businesses of all sizes. It’s perfect for companies seeking both inspiration and functionality.
Work.Life Fitzrovia: For a flexible and community-driven workspace, Work.Life Fitzrovia provides beautifully designed offices that prioritise wellbeing and productivity, all within walking distance of Great Portland Street.
Henry Wood House: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Henry Wood House offers modern office spaces tailored to businesses looking for an inspiring environment, with a wide range of amenities and flexible rental options.
37 Great Portland Street: This iconic building provides stylish, fully serviced office spaces with flexible lease terms, ideal for businesses that need a central location with easy access to the city’s key transport links.
Formal meetings, workshops, or brainstorming sessions often require a professional venue.
Great Portland Street provides a wide range of meeting rooms with flexible bookings:
Landmark Marylebone: Known for its professional environment and high-quality facilities, Landmark provides a selection of meeting rooms that can accommodate groups of all sizes.
TOG The Smiths Building: A modern, fully equipped workspace that offers a range of meeting rooms in various sizes. Whether you're hosting a small team discussion or a larger presentation, TOG can cater to your needs.
39 Fitzroy Square: Offering a variety of flexible meeting spaces, 39 Fitzroy is an excellent choice for businesses in need of a convenient and professional setting.
Landmark New Cavendish: With its comfortable, contemporary meeting rooms, Landmark is perfect for those looking for a relaxed, yet professional atmosphere.
TOG Brock House: TOG's meeting rooms are designed with creativity and collaboration in mind. The beautifully designed spaces are sure to inspire your team.
When you don’t need a permanent office, hot desking is a flexible alternative.
Coworking hubs around Great Portland Street attract freelancers, start-ups, and established professionals looking to mingle:
Landmark Marylebone: This space offers hot desks in a modern, open plan office setting. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a productive environment among like-minded professionals.
The Building Society Fitzrovia: Offering hot desks in a creative, collaborative workspace, The Building Society Fitzrovia is suitable for freelancers and small teams seeking flexibility.
Landmark Tottenham Court Road: Providing a blend of comfort and professionalism, Landmark Tottenham Court Road offers hot desks in a beautifully equipped workspace.
Landmark New Cavendish: This contemporary office space offers hot desk options in a relaxed and welcoming environment, ideal for creatives and entrepreneurs.
Huckletree Oxford Circus: With its beautifully designed interiors and flexible hot desk options, Huckletree Oxford Circus fosters a stimulating working environment.
Ladies having lunch and cowork in Great Portland Street restaurant
Our top 10 lunch spots in Great Portland Street
Grabbing a midday meal away from your desk can spark fresh ideas for the afternoon.
Great Portland Street is brimming with diverse options, from speedy takeaways to relaxing sit-down meals with the rest of your team.
Explore these ten standout spots that consistently impress us and many other office professionals in Great Portland Street:
Riding House Café: A local favourite, the Riding House Café offers an eclectic menu with dishes ranging from healthy salads to hearty mains. The buzzing atmosphere and stylish decor make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
Kaffeine: If you're in the mood for a quick bite or a coffee, Kaffeine offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and artisanal coffee. The café’s modern, minimalist interiors make for a relaxed setting.
Portland Restaurant: This Michelin-star restaurant offers a seasonal menu that spotlights the best of British cuisine. The classy, intimate ambience makes it an ideal choice for a business lunch or a special occasion.
Fischer's: For those craving Bavarian delicacies, Fischer's is a must-visit. This Viennese inspired café and konditorei brings a slice of Austria to Great Portland Street.
GT Corner: Known for its delightful pastries and sandwiches, GT Corner is an excellent choice for a light, casual lunch. The bright, airy interiors and a view of the street add to the inviting vibe.
Iberica: Serving authentic Spanish cuisine, Iberica is famous for its tapas. The restaurant’s warm, rustic ambience perfectly complements the flavours of Spain.
The George: The George offers a contemporary British menu in a sleek, modern setting. Their set lunch menu is a crowd-pleaser, offering value for money.
Roti Chai: For an explosion of Indian flavours, head to Roti Chai. This restaurant serves street food-inspired dishes from various regions of India in a vibrant, informal setting.
The Albany: A quintessential British pub, The Albany offers classic pub fare and a wide selection of beers. Its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a casual lunch.
Peyton and Byrne: This bakery and café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. It's a great place to grab a quick, delicious lunch on the go.
Pub on a corner of a building in Great Portland Street
Our top 10 pubs and bars in Great Portland Street
Office life can be intense at times, and finding a welcoming spot to unwind at the end of the day makes all the difference.
Great Portland Street is home to a range of pubs and bars suited to every taste, from after-work catch-ups with colleagues to casual Friday evenings in a cosy corner booth. Here’s our list of ten favourites that capture the lively spirit of the area.
The Albany: A traditional British pub with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a range of beers, ales, and spirits along with a pub grub menu.
The Green Man: Known for its wide selection of ales and hearty pub food, The Green Man is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Artesian: This cocktail bar impresses with its creative concoctions and stylish atmosphere. A must-try for cocktail lovers.
The Crown & Sceptre: A classic pub with a contemporary touch, serving a range of craft beers and quality wines.
The Smugglers Tavern: A charming pub offering a great selection of draught beers, cask ales, and spirits along with a robust food menu.
Simmons Bar: Known for its quirky decor and extensive cocktail list, Simmons Bar also offers five-hour-long happy hours.
Shochu Lounge: A basement bar serving Japanese-inspired cocktails in a chic, atmospheric setting.
The Cock Tavern: A traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere, offering a range of beers, wines, and spirits in addition to a solid food menu.
The Lucky Pig: A cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe, offering innovative cocktails and a well-curated selection of wines and spirits.
The Grafton Arms Pub & Rooms: A cosy pub with a beer garden, offering a variety of ales, lagers, and spirits, as well as a selection of British and global dishes.
London underground station stairs
Making the most of Great Portland Street, London
Office life can be demanding, but the Great Portland Street area provides an uplifting environment for productivity.
When you seek a break from spreadsheets or Zoom calls, you’ll find coffee shops buzzing with conversation, restaurants for refuelling, and green space for head-clearing walks. If you’re planning a company move, Great Portland Street’s central location and range of facilities can help you settle in quickly. Remember to use the station’s multiple tube lines to explore everything central London offers. With Oxford Circus and Marylebone so close, your lunch breaks or after-work hours can incorporate high-street shopping, cultured galleries, or scenic park strolls. From the moment you step off a train at Great Portland Street tube station, you sense that this part of the city bustles with purpose and possibility. Landmarks like Broadcasting House echo with media history, while new coworking spaces brim with start-up energy. Balanced with the heritage of well-preserved architecture and green spaces, Great Portland Street encourages ambition, collaboration, and a fulfilling work-life rhythm.
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