The pretty South London street that held the first circus and has barely changed in 200 years

The Timeless South London Street That Gave Birth to the Circus

Roupell Street in South London has remained unchanged for 200 years, a charming reminder of the past and the birthplace of the circus

Culture

Roupell Street, South London, Circus, Philip Astley, History, Film

South London: It’s pretty wild to think that Roupell Street has stayed the same for over 200 years. Just a short walk from Waterloo Station, it feels like stepping back in time.

This lovely street is filled with charming Georgian houses and has become a go-to spot for filming. You might recognize it from shows like EastEnders and Doctor Who. Despite its popularity, developers can’t seem to get the green light to change anything here, thanks to its conservation status.

When a house does go up for sale, it usually sells for over a million pounds. It’s no wonder people are drawn to this hidden gem in South London.

Roupell Street has seen its fair share of history. During the Blitz, locals painted the curbs white to help guide traffic. It was named after the Roupell family, who developed the area back in 1824. Can you believe that at one point, up to 20 people lived in a single house? It’s a far cry from the wealthy residents who occupy them now.

This street has survived everything from railway expansions to the Blitz, earning it the title of ‘impossibly handsome’ from Time Out. It’s a real testament to the past.

And here’s a fun fact: Roupell Street is where the circus began! Back in 1768, Philip Astley wowed crowds with his acrobatic horse riding. He even performed for King Louis XV! There’s a blue plaque at the end of the street to honor his legacy.

Plus, it’s a favorite for filmmakers. Imagine seeing Tom Hardy walking past your house while filming Legend! The late Dame Barbara Windsor also filmed her last scenes for EastEnders right here.

So, if you’re ever in South London, take a stroll down Roupell Street. It’s a slice of history that’s still very much alive.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.mylondon.news/news/south-london-news/pretty-south-london-street-held-30785092