Waterloo is a neighbourhood unlike any other in London. Located at the city’s geographical centre – well-known as the meeting point for Londoners – and seeped in an abundance of history, culture and community, its past and present make for a very exciting future.
Waterloo has a long and proud tradition of activism that’s attracted passionate individuals to drive positive change. The legacy of feminist social reformers such as Octavia Hill, Emma Cons and Lilian Baylis can still be seen throughout the neighbourhood on road signs and building names commemorating their work in the area. Today, over 30 charities call Waterloo home as they strive to make the world a better place.
Located just a stone’s throw from the renowned cultural centres of the West End and South Bank yet remaining relatively undiscovered, Waterloo has become a hotbed for boundary-pushing performance, counter-cultural art and “off-West End” theatre. From the graffiti of Leake Street to the classical composers of the 1901 Arts Club and almost everything in between, the area is a diverse cultural powerhouse attracting an array of talent.
Building on its progressive past, Waterloo is channelling its activist spirit towards addressing the current climate crisis. With the goal of becoming a Net Zero Neighbourhood by 2030, the BID is partnering with leading sustainability experts to cut local carbon emissions and encourage environmental innovation. This has attracted sustainable start-ups from biotech apps to built environment specialists. In fact, the area is home to one of the world’s largest climate tech ecosystems.
As one of the busiest transport hubs in the city, and an area that still retains an authentic and quirky edge, Waterloo attracts millions of visitors every year. With a diverse range of pubs, restaurants, and cultural hotspots, it’s the perfect place to set up shop, get noticed and we’re keen to support you on your journey.
According to historical accounts, the market was established in the early 19th century, and has operated almost continuously since its inception. At its peak it stretched from Blackfriars to Vauxhall and was one of the longest markets in the UK. The etching shown is a view towards the Cut with the Old Vic Theatre on the right hand side.
Formerly the Royal Coburg Theatre, it was known as an insalubrious music hall. Under the management (1880–1912) of Emma Cons, a social reformer, the Old Vic was transformed into a temperance amusement hall known as the Royal Victoria Hall and Coffee Tavern. Her aim was to make culture accessible to all, a mission the theatre continues to this day.
Established by social reformer and suffragette Emma Cons in 1889, Morley College was the first institution of its kind to admit both genders on an equal footing. Lessons included a range of subjects in the arts alongside more practical subjects to provide skills and contribute to the futures of working people. Over the years the college welcomed high-profiled names such as Gustav Holst (former Director of Music) and Virginia Woolf.
Developed by John Palmer Roupell, a metal merchant, in the 1820s for local workers on what had been marsh land on the south side of the Thames. It is one of the best preserved examples of terraced workers housing in central London and the majority of these Georgian houses are now Grade II listed.
The former home of the Bethlem Royal Hospital. Founded in 1247 it was the first in the UK to specialise in the care of the mentally ill. The hospital moved out in 1930 and permission was granted by London County Council to use it for the Imperial War Museum. The IWM now tells the stories of people’s experiences of modern war from WW1 to the conflicts of today.
St. Georges Circus has a rich history that spans centuries. From a bustling crossroads in Roman times, to an infamous slum in the 18th century, to the historic roundabout of today, the area has undergone many changes over the years. Despite these changes, the St. Georges Circus remains an important landmark of the Waterloo area and continues to play an important role in the local community.
