Image credit: Steve Cadman · CC BY-SA 2.0 · 2007-02-03 ↗
85 Fleet Street: Lutyens’ Reuters Building and The Herald
Fleet Street / Salisbury Court · Temple → Fleet Street → Lincoln’s Inn · Newspaper architecture / Lutyens / architectural sculpture
Story
For much of the twentieth century, “Fleet Street” was synonymous with the press, and No. 85 was one of the buildings that embodied this power. Reuters, the news agency, commissioned architect Edwin Lutyens in the 1930s for its new headquarters. Completed in 1935, the Portland-stone façade features a restrained classical language, distinct from the black-glass modernism of the nearby Daily Express building. As you pause and look up at the great central arch, you will see *The Herald*, a bronze figure by sculptor William Reid Dick, installed in the late 1930s. It is a fitting image for a news agency: a messenger elevated above the street from which news travelled around the world. Reuters and the Press Association occupied this building for decades. The Press Association left in 1995, and Reuters finally departed Fleet Street in 2005. This move was a symbolic moment, as Reuters was the last major international news organisation to leave the street that had given its name to the entire British newspaper industry. Today the building is used for offices; the experience lies in its imposing façade, arch, and sculpture.
What to look for
Look for the great central Portland stone arch. Above it, find the bronze figure of a messenger, *The Herald*, suspended high up, depicting a herald.
Secret detail
Reuters was the last major international news organisation to leave Fleet Street, in 2005, marking the end of an era for the street and its association with the press.
Where exactly
Find No. 85 on the south side of Fleet Street, near Salisbury Court and St Bride’s Church.
Orientation
The full Lutyens composition and sculpture are best viewed from the opposite pavement of Fleet Street.
Why it matters
This building symbolises the power of the press on Fleet Street during the 20th century and the shift from traditional to more restrained architectural styles. Its eventual departure marked the end of an era for this iconic street.
Access & opening
No ordinary public interior access.
Free exterior view.
We never show live status. Check opening hours before you go.
Accessibility
Visible from public pavement.