Chinatown Gate stands on Wardour Street in London’s West End, marking an entrance to streets lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries, food shops and other Asian eateries. Its raised roof sections, painted details and traditional Chinese design make it a landmark to pause at before exploring the neighbourhood. Look for lanterns, dragons and Chinese street signs as you walk. Come for the architecture, then browse the shops or choose from dim sum, roast duck, pastries and bubble tea nearby.
Why the gate was built
London’s Chinese community and Chinatown were once based around Limehouse in the East End. The present Chinatown, in the West End near Soho and Theatreland, became established in the 1970s. Its streets sit close to major pedestrian routes, but the Wardour Street approach was not easy to recognise.
Westminster proposed a gateway at the site in 2003. Chinatown organisations helped with planning, consultation and fundraising over more than a decade. The gate opened in 2016, giving the Wardour Street entrance a clear landmark.
Design and construction
The gate was built in a style inspired by China’s Qing dynasty, with construction taking place in Beijing. Its raised roof has three sections, and painted surfaces give the structure a distinctive presence along Wardour Street. Chinese specialists were involved in work on the roof sections.
Building below the street brought an engineering challenge: a major sewer runs beneath Wardour Street. Deep piles and a steel-and-concrete frame were used to accommodate it. The design and construction turned an indistinct junction into a formal entrance to Chinatown.
Words on the gate
The lettering carries meaning as well as identifying the gate’s supporters. 中國太平 is the name of sponsor China Taiping and also an auspicious phrase. On the reverse, 英倫呈祥 conveys a wish for good fortune for Britain.
FAQ
Where is Chinatown Gate in London?
The gate is at 17 Wardour Street in London’s West End, at the entrance to Chinatown.
When did Chinatown Gate open?
It opened in 2016, after more than a decade of planning, consultation and fundraising.
What can you find near Chinatown Gate?
Nearby streets have Chinese restaurants, bakeries, food shops and other Asian eateries, along with lanterns, dragons and Chinese street signs.
