Leicester Square /ˈlɛstər/ is a pedestrianised square in the West End of London, England. It was laid out in 1670 and is named after the contemporary Leicester House, itself named after Robert Sidney, 2nd Earl of Leicester. The square was originally a gentrified residential area, before becoming more down-market as retail developments took place. In the 19th century, it became a centre for entertainment, which remains the case today.