Burlington Arcade in Piccadilly has dazzled shoppers since 1819

Step off busy Piccadilly into Burlington Arcade and the pace of London seems to slow. The covered arcade, which calls itself "the Jewel of Mayfair", has been tempting shoppers since 1819, and it remains one of the capital's most elegant places to browse.

The arcade opened on 20 March 1819, built on the former side garden of Burlington House and developed under Lord George Cavendish, later 1st Earl of Burlington. The architect was Samuel Ware. It runs for about 179 metres from Piccadilly to Burlington Gardens, parallel to Bond Street.

From the start, it was aimed at wealthy shoppers seeking luxury goods. The original design had 72 small two storey units, and some have since been merged, leaving around 40 shops today. The ornate Piccadilly frontage, with its sculptures, was added in 1911.

The arcade is famous for its jewellers and silver dealers, and that tradition continues. Today's tenants include jewellery and watch specialists such as ANANYA, Susannah Lovis Jewellers and The Vintage Watch Company, alongside Manolo Blahnik, J and M Davidson, Globe-Trotter, ROJA Parfums and the art dealer Gladwell and Patterson. Recent events have included a bespoke high jewellery presentation by ANANYA Atelier and a Mid Autumn Festival celebration.

Part of the charm lies in the arcade's traditions. Uniformed beadles, some in top hats and frock coats, patrol the walkway, a role first filled by former members of the 10th Royal Hussars. The arcade's rules famously ban singing, humming, hurrying and rowdy behaviour, and whistling is not allowed either, reportedly because it was once a signal used by pickpockets. Sir Paul McCartney is said to be one of the very few people exempt.

For visitors, it is a wonderful place to window shop, whether you are hunting for a special piece of jewellery or simply enjoying a slice of Regency London. It pairs well with a visit to the Royal Academy, next door at Burlington House.

The arcade is open from 8am to 7pm on weekdays, 9am to 7pm on Saturdays and 11am to 6pm on Sundays.

Burlington Arcade runs between Piccadilly and Burlington Gardens, close to Green Park and Piccadilly Circus stations. For shops and events, visit burlingtonarcade.com.