Old Compton Street is a road that runs east–west through Soho in the West End of London, named after Henry Compton who raised funds for St Anne's Church in 1686. The area, particularly this street, became home to French Protestant refugees in 1681. Known for its diverse and artistic traditions, the street housed businesses, artists, philosophers, and was frequented by communists and proto-beatniks. The Algerian Coffee Stores, one of the oldest shops on the street, was established in 1887. Post World War II, the street became a center for modern and trad jazz. Since the 1970s, Old Compton Street has been a focal point for London's gay community, with numerous gay bars, restaurants, and specialty shops. The Admiral Duncan pub, a notable gay venue, was bombed in 1999 in a hate crime attack. The street is also home to the Prince Edward Theatre.
Eastern end of Old Compton Street
Charing Cross Road at the junction with Old Compton Street, with traffic island and grate through which a Little Compton Street sign is visible
Little Compton Street sign visible in a utility tunnel
The street in 1960, showing the Prince Edward Theatre while it was operating as the Casino Cinema
Soho is an area of the City of Westminster in the West End of London. Originally a fashionable district for the aristocracy, it has been one of the main entertainment districts in the capital since the 19th century.
Image: Soho (1877979497)
Image: Gardeners hut Soho Square 030
Image: Greek Street geograph.org.uk 1104098
Image: Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, Frith Street, Soho geograph.org.uk 1510854
