Oxford Street is a major shopping thoroughfare in London's Westminster originally forming part of a Roman road that linked Hampshire and Essex. During the Middle Ages it was known as the Tyburn Road where prisoners were hanged publicly at the Tyburn Gallows. The street earns its name from the Earl of Oxford who owned much of the surrounding land in the 18th century. During the war Oxford Street was the focus of many bombings which damaged many of its buildings. In 1962 The Beatles made their first recording at the HMV store at No. 363 Oxford Street. A famous music venue is the ‘100 Club’ located at No. 100 Oxford Street. This underground venue was deemed safe in wartime and has hosted many stars such as Glenn Miller, Louis Armstrong, The Who, The Kinks and the Sex Pistols.
The street runs from St Giles Circus in the west to Marble Arch in the east and is over a mile long. Oxford Street crosses Regent Street at Oxford Circus. Oxford Circus tube station is one of the busiest Underground stations in London.
Oxford Street is the busiest shopping road in Europe and boasts around 300 shops including department stores John Lewis, Selfridges and House of Fraser. A number of shops have their flagship stores located in Oxford Street, including Marks & Spencer and H&M. Other nearby shopping areas include Regent Street (at the intersection with Oxford Circus) and also Carnaby Street, which is famous for its fashion shops. Many shoppers flock to Oxford Street for the new year sales where you can pick up a good bargain - but be quick!
Every year a new set of Christmas lights is hung above the West End's busiest street and is always a popular attraction among tourists and home visitors alike. In fact Christmas lights aren't unique to Oxford Street - Regent Street, Carnaby Street, Mayfair, Bond Street and other roads in London are also illuminated around the Christmas period.
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