Sicilian Avenue Set for Grand Reopening After Five-Year Restoration

London is full of overlooked spots, the kind of places you could walk past for years without realising their historical or architectural significance. One such spot is Sicilian Avenue, a stunning Edwardian pedestrian street tucked away near Holborn Tube station. Though many Londoners have admired its ornate turrets and marble façade, few have been able to fully enjoy it in recent years. That’s about to change, as this summer marks the much-anticipated reopening of Sicilian Avenue following an extensive five-year restoration project.

The elegant arcade, which connects Southampton Row to Bloomsbury Way, was built in 1906 and has long been admired for its European-inspired design. However, despite reopening for pedestrians last year, the buildings themselves remained unoccupied as renovation work continued. Now, with developers nearing completion, the transformation of Sicilian Avenue into Bloomsbury’s next sought-after shopping and dining destination is finally within reach.

Tristan Capital Partners, the company behind the £38 million restoration, has promised a “complete regeneration” of the space, aiming to attract a carefully curated selection of cafés, restaurants, and high-end retail. Though tenants are still being finalised, at least six businesses are expected to be open by summer. Given the area’s history and charm, it’s likely that Sicilian Avenue will become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for something a little more refined than the usual high street fare.

Alchemy Asset Management, another key player in the redevelopment, has acknowledged the challenges of restoring such a historically rich location, but believes the effort has been worthwhile. “Due to its rich history and architectural elegance, the structural adaptation has been hugely worthwhile in terms of the fantastic product we have been able to create,” a spokesperson said.

While the official reopening date is yet to be announced, visitors can already stroll through the avenue and admire its Edwardian grandeur. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or just someone in search of a new favourite coffee spot, Sicilian Avenue is set to be one of London’s most exciting new openings this summer.

For those keen to explore more of London’s historic streets, Visit London offers a guide to some of the city’s most beautiful hidden walkways and arcades, including Sicilian Avenue and other lesser-known spots. You can check out their recommendations here.

For more updates on London’s historic streets, new openings, and the best places to explore, follow EyeOnLondon and stay connected with the latest city stories.

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!