Why is the Promenade des Anglais Called the Promenade des Anglais?
If you've ever visited Nice, chances are you've strolled along the iconic Promenade des Anglais. But have you ever wondered why it’s called that? The answer takes us back to the 19th century, where a group of well-to-do visitors from across the Channel left their mark on the Côte d'Azur.
In the 18th century, Nice became the winter getaway of choice for wealthy English aristocrats looking to escape the colder northern European climates. These “winterers” flocked to Nice for its milder temperatures, and the neighbourhoods they favoured soon became known by names reflecting their British patrons—one even being dubbed “Little London.”
But it wasn’t until 1822 that the Promenade des Anglais as we know it began to take shape. An Anglican pastor, Lewis Way, launched a fundraising campaign to level a two-meter-wide path for local residents, creating the beginnings of the grand promenade we walk today. Although early documents called it “Strada del Littorale,” the locals quickly dubbed it “Camin dei Inglés” or “English Way,” a nod to the English aristocrats who helped bring it to life.
By 1844, the name “Promenade des Anglais” was officially adopted, marking the start of what would become the social heart of Nice. The avenue was expanded in the late 19th century, widening the road and adding a lovely new sidewalk for leisurely strolls.
Over time, the Promenade became the place to see and be seen. The wealthy, often on horseback, would parade past the impressive casinos, such as the Jetée Promenade and the Ruhl, both of which catered mostly to English tourists.
Today, as you walk along the Promenade des Anglais, you're not just enjoying a beautiful view of the Mediterranean—you're walking through a piece of history, forever tied to the English aristocrats who shaped its identity.
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