A moment in Marylebone

A moment in Marylebone

Marylebone is a place where history intertwines with vibrant community spirit, a village within the city that feels timeless yet alive. On a recent afternoon, we wandered its streets along with local resident and photographer Eddie Wailes, meeting new neighbors and uncovering the stories, hidden corners, and familiar faces that give Marylebone its unique charm. From whispered tales of the past to cherished local favorites, we discovered what makes this remarkable enclave so special.

Photographed by local resident Eddie Wailes - stylist & photographer.

Eddie Wailes “Marylebone was the place I fell in love with when I first moved to London, with its village like feel in Central London it offers an array of charm”.

Interview by

Amelia Derrick

Photography by

Eddie Wailes

#Articles #History #Interviews

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone?
Matteo Marylebone has a unique charm that blends a village-like community spirit with the vibrancy of the city. It's a place where tradition meets modernity, from its independent boutiques to its historic architecture. The friendly faces and the thoughtful pace of life really define its essence.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
M I haven’t been in the area long enough to have my own stories yet, but one thing that stands out is how warmly the neighbourhood has welcomed us. The sense of community and the way everyone has embraced us has been truly incredible.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
M My favourite hidden gem is the Marylebone Farmers' Market. It’s the perfect spot to discover local produce, meet friendly vendors, and enjoy the vibrant, community-focused atmosphere that Marylebone does so well.

Matteo, store manager at Cubitts Marylebone

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone?
Philip The spirit of “Marylebone” is the fact of how that word defining an area has only been used for a large part of it in the last few decades, most of which was formerly called “the West End”. This is in the spirit of Estate Agents, who know that the area in close proximity to Edgware Road has become known as little Arabia being as so many Arabs are living there, but meaning that this has lowered the price of it compared to English gentry associated property nearby. So to differentiate from having Middle Eastern connotations, this newly defined area has come into existence to keep property prices up.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
P It seems that the Park Road London Central Mosque is defined as being in Marylebone, despite its NW8 postcode. Years ago, passing by, I decided to have a quick look in there to see what it was like. I went into the main huge Prayer Hall with a giant dome as a ceiling, and with devoutly religious people kneeling on the floor praying. I slowly walked into the centre, and then guess what, my phone suddenly rang. The ring tone is the theme tune of Coronation Street, which hideously reverberated around the circular hall like an echo chamber. I frantically ran out, but can’t tell you how embarrassed I was. It will haunt me forever.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
P The favourite hidden gem for me is the Wallace Collection, which an unbelievable amount of people don’t even know is there.

Philip Scallon, socialite, style innovator, impresario, and clothing designer.

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone
Alyssia The spirit of Marylebone is defined by the people, surrounded by locals, most of whom are interested in the small details, design, a spot of difference and quirk unlike any other borough of London I believe. Working as a tailor on Chiltern street at Grey Flannel you get to meet some fantastically interesting people.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
A Drag racing along Chiltern Street on a Cooler King electric motorbike with a Go-Pro strapped to my head in white overalls for a collab we have done recently with Cooler King.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
A It’s hard to pick one, I love VV Rouleaux for exquisite ribbons and trimmings, adding a touch of difference to gifts and garments. The Jackalope pub, and old school pub hidden down Weymouth mews, with a gem of a spicy ramen bar below, pints and noodles, what’s not to like! And finally (a self nom - but the atelier hidden downstairs at Grey Flannel) an Aladdin’s cave by appointment only, hidden underneath the bustle of Chiltern street, where you will experience a bespoke suit fitting like no other with the knowledge of Timothy Everest MBE.

Alyssia, who works at Marylebone's Grey Flannels

Lucy, who works at Chiltern Street gardening brand Niwaki

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone
Lucie The spirit of Marylebone is the people who work in the area. Everyone is so lovely and friendly. I have been in Chiltern Street for over 3 years and it’s really nice to see everyone supporting each other. I think lot of people come to this street because it’s such a nice feel and experience to shop from friendly faces.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
L Hmm this is a tricky one. As I spend most of my day in the shop I only see very small part of the street life but, each stores has interesting stories behind their business and I think finding out about it is part of the experience you get from this street. Most of the businesses are independent and there’s lot of uniqueness to them. And I think it’s just a coincidence but it makes me happy the fact that almost all the shops have something Japanese. I’m from Japan so I love seeing Japanese products being loved here in London.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
L It’s not so hidden but I love Shreeji Newsagents - the shop itself is great but I have to say their hidden

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone?
Andre Being neighbourly in my experience defines the spirit of Marylebone. There’s a nice little community around here if you look for it.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
A Summer ‘19 - Chiltern Street Summer Party. You had to be there.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
A Not many spots in Marylebone are really hidden to be honest but search hard enough and you’ll find a few. The basement at Mayha would be my pick though.

C What, to you, defines the spirit of Marylebone?
Jimmy The people define Marylebone. Most people here are super interesting and creative. You can meet just about anyone, and you will have an inspiring conversation about something they are doing in their life. Also, those who have good taste in things, whether it be furniture, coffee, food, fashion etc, Marylebone is full of places to shop and get inspired.

C Tell us a story from the streets of Marylebone.
J How Matcha just opened on the end of Chiltern Street, and the decided to throw an epic party on the street. They had a DJ come in and play on their counter and hundreds of people spilled out onto the street dancing. It was memorable to say the least. People still talk about it.

C What's your favourite hidden gem in the area?
J Special Guests Coffee.