Hanbury Street’s western section originated around 1649 as Lolesworth Lane or Lolesworth Street, crossing Lolesworth Field. Maps from 1677 show it as Browne’s Lane, named after local landowner Jeffrey Browne, who also owned part of the future Spital Fields market area. By 1681, the north side was developed.
Hanbury Street was called Preston Street before 1876.
The street extended east of Brick Lane, known as Montague Street, Church Street and Wells Street. Early 1700s saw significant rebuilding, resulting in typical Georgian houses characteristic of the area. As Truman’s Black Eagle Brewery expanded, Browne’s Lane and its eastern extensions were renamed Hanbury Street in 1876, honouring brewery partners Samson and possibly Osgood Hanbury.
In 1884, Florence Soper established The Women’s Social Work, providing refuge for women involved in prostitution. The street gained notoriety on 8 September 1888 when Annie Chapman, Jack the Ripper’s second victim, was found at 29 Hanbury Street. British entertainer Bud Flanagan was born at number 12 in 1896.
The brewery’s growth in the early 20th century had minimal impact on the street’s appearance. However, the north side’s demolition in March 1970 brought significant change. Today, the south side retains many restored 18th-century houses, offering a glimpse of the street’s more prosperous past.
