[traceroute66]

> This is a set of interconnecting pretty courtyards surrounded by building

Yes, London is quite unique amongst global cities for having these sorts of treasures hidden right in the centre. Another good example in that area is Linconln's Inn Fields[1] which is a quiet sanctuary just off the horrors of Holborn. Venture up the road to the City of London and there are maybe dozens more.

It is, sadly, an art form that has been lost in the "relaxed planning" era of the New-Build garbage.

Fortunately the older areas are protected from the grubby hands of the greedy property developers due to various legal constraints in place ranging from Listed Building status to more obscure ones.

[1]https://goo.gl/maps/YxAnXeDBsiv9dkRH7