Strolling through its elegant squares and charming cobbled mews, it is hard to believe that only 150 years ago, Knightsbridge was an unruly, straggling village with a reputation as the home of thieves and scoundrels. In fact, until 1800, Hyde Park Corner was as far west as respectable Londoners cared to travel; brave souls wishing to travel further afield would arrange to meet and travel in convoy to avert the villians and highwaymen laying in wait in the park. In 1820, Lord Grosvenor, who owned the estates around Knightsbridge, employed the architect Thomas Cubitt to develop the area, instructing him to build the very best houses in London. Belgravia was created and as its imposing cream stucco buildings became home to the distinguished and fashionable, the area picked up to eventually become the smartest residential address in London. Having lived down its disreputable past, Knightsbridge still retains a unique village atmosphere.Well known and loved for its wealth of shopping, its residents agree that Knightsbridge is probably the most ‘complete’ of all Central London districts. In addition, Knightsbridge’s reputation as the premier international business location seems sure to endure into the 21st century and beyond.
