Audrey Hepburn and Marc Bolan Among the Latest London Blue Plaque Honourees
London’s blue plaques are getting some new names, and this year’s list includes some big ones. Audrey Hepburn, the actress who defined old Hollywood elegance, and Marc Bolan, the glam rock trailblazer behind T. Rex, are among those being added to the city’s famous heritage markers. English Heritage has just announced its 2025 blue plaque honourees, recognising figures who’ve helped shape the capital’s culture in different ways.
Hepburn, though born in Belgium, spent key years in London, where she trained in ballet before moving into acting. It was here that she took some of her first major roles, setting her on the path to global fame. Bolan, meanwhile, brought a whole new energy to British music in the 1970s, with his signature style and era-defining hits making him a huge influence in the world of rock and pop.
The plaques aren’t just for film and music legends. Also being honoured this year is Alicia Markova, a founding figure of the English National Ballet, who helped put British ballet on the map. Una Marson, a poet, playwright, and the first Black woman to work as a producer at the BBC, is recognised for her role in broadcasting and activism. Novelist Barbara Pym, known for her dry observations of British society, and artist Graham Sutherland, whose work helped define modern British art, will also receive plaques.
The blue plaque scheme has been running since 1866, marking places where notable people once lived or worked. To be eligible, honourees must have been deceased for at least 20 years, and their connection to a building in Greater London must still be clear. English Heritage carefully selects each name, making sure the person’s impact on the city is worth remembering.
The exact locations of the 2025 blue plaques haven’t been revealed yet, but if you like exploring London’s history, this is another reason to keep an eye out while walking around. English Heritage has a database of all past plaques, so if you’re curious about who has been honoured before, you can check it out here.
For more updates on London’s heritage and culture, visit EyeOnLondon. Let us know what you think of this year’s honourees in the comments!
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
