The modern West End is very closely associated with Westminster, and largely contained within it. The term 'West End' became commonplace in the early 19th century, being used infrequently before then.

Lying to the west of the historic Roman and medieval City of London, Westminster and neighbouring areas were long favoured by the rich elite as a place of residence, because it was close to the seat of royal power at the Palace of Westminster (now home to parliament)