There’s a small, hidden street in London that’s a real treat for anyone who’s into old books and related things. Cecil Court is located near Wyndham’s Theatre and connects Charing Cross Road and St. Martin’s Lane. If you don’t know it’s there, it’s easy to miss it.
Cecil Court, also known as the Bookseller’s Row, allegedly inspired J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley from her Harry Potter books. The street is pretty old — it dates back to the 17th century, and it was always home of multiple bookshops. Today, there are around 20 antique and vintage bookshops in the street. The shopfronts didn’t change much during the past century so you can expect a time-travel effect while browsing for books, old maps, theatre posters, etc.
This very street was once a temporary home to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. He stayed there during his European tour, and there’s even a rumor that this is where he composed his first symphony. If you happen to be in London, you shouldn’t miss this magical street that makes time go slower.
