How did Shepherd’s Bush get its name?

Shepherd’s Bush in West London likely got its name from—you guessed it—actual shepherds. The area was once common land where shepherds would rest their flocks on the way to Smithfield Market, which was London’s main livestock market. The “bush” part probably refers to a notable shrub or thicket where these weary shepherds might have found shade or a good picnic spot for both themselves and their sheep.

There’s no definitive historical document pointing to the exact bush in question, but imagine a scruffy patch of greenery where sheep grazed, oblivious to the fact that one day their humble rest stop would be home to Westfield, vintage pubs, and overpriced flat whites.

The name Shepherd’s Bush was first recorded in 1635. Back then, it was a rural expanse on the outskirts of London, far removed from the bustling urban sprawl it would eventually become. The area served as common land, with its name likely reflecting its practical use by shepherds driving their flocks toward the city.

Interestingly, maps from the 17th century show it as Sheppards Bush Green, suggesting the spelling wasn’t yet standardised—typical of the era, when even Shakespeare couldn’t settle on one spelling for his own name.