Arts Theatre: Intimate West End Venue with a Rich Theatrical Legacy
A historic, intimate West End theatre offering close-up performances in a cozy setting since 1927.
Located at 6-7 Great Newport Street in London’s West End, the Arts Theatre is a small, intimate venue with a seating capacity of around 350. Opened in 1927 as a private members’ club to stage unlicensed and experimental plays, it has since become a renowned commercial theatre hosting diverse productions from plays to musicals. Its two-level auditorium, comprising Stalls and Circle sections, offers close, comfortable views of the stage, making it a cherished spot for theatre lovers seeking a unique West End experience.
A brief summary to Arts Theatre
- 6-7 Great Newport St, London, WC2H 7JB, GB
- +442078368463
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- For the best views, book seats in the Stalls between Rows B and H or in the Circle between Rows A and E.
- Be aware that some seats at the ends of Row J and in Rows M and N have restricted views due to pillars and overhangs.
- Arrive early to enjoy the theatre’s private members’ bar and café, which offer a range of drinks and snacks during showtimes.
- The theatre’s high stage means front-row Stalls seats require looking up; taller audience members may find these more comfortable.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Reach the Arts Theatre via London Underground by alighting at Charing Cross station, approximately a 5-7 minute walk. Numerous bus routes serve nearby stops on Charing Cross Road and Strand, with journey times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting location. Single fares cost around £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London locations typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8 and £15. Note that traffic congestion in the West End can increase travel times during peak hours.
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Walking
If you are staying in Leicester Square or Covent Garden, walking to the Arts Theatre takes about 7-12 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and passes through lively pedestrian areas.
Arts Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about Arts Theatre
A Storied Beginning and Theatrical Evolution
The Arts Theatre opened its doors in April 1927 with a bold mission: to provide a space for unlicensed, experimental, and often controversial plays that circumvented the censorship imposed by the Lord Chamberlain’s office. This independent spirit quickly earned it a reputation as a haven for avant-garde theatre. In the 1940s, under the management of Alec Clunes and John Hanau, it earned the nickname "The National Pocket Theatre" by producing over 100 plays in a decade. The theatre also played a significant role in premiering landmark works, including the English-language debut of Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot in 1955, marking its importance in the history of modern theatre.An Intimate Venue Designed for Connection
With a seating capacity of approximately 350, the Arts Theatre is among the smallest commercial receiving houses in London’s West End. Its auditorium is divided into two levels: the Stalls and the Circle. The Stalls, located on the ground floor, offer close proximity to the stage, with about 238 seats arranged over 15 rows. The Circle, with around 120 seats spread over six rows plus two slip rows, overhangs the Stalls and provides a horseshoe-shaped view, allowing audiences to look down on the stage. The theatre’s design ensures that no seat feels distant from the action, creating an intimate atmosphere where spectators feel deeply connected to the performance.Seating Experience and Sightlines
The seating at the Arts Theatre is known for its comfort and good sightlines. Most seats in the Stalls provide unobstructed views, though some seats at the ends of Row J are partially obscured by supporting pillars, and seats in Rows M and N face some restriction due to the Circle’s overhang. The Circle’s slip seats are bench-style and offer restricted views, reflected in their lower ticket prices. Premium seats are typically found in the Stalls between Rows B and H and in the Circle between Rows A and E, where the views are excellent, and legroom is generally comfortable. The theatre’s high stage means front-row Stalls seats require looking upward, which may be less comfortable for shorter audience members but is manageable given the relatively short duration of most shows.A Hub for Diverse and Dynamic Productions
The Arts Theatre has evolved into a vibrant commercial venue hosting a variety of performances including plays, musicals, cabarets, and stand-up comedy. It has been home to notable productions such as the award-winning musical Six and the lively jukebox show The Choir of Man, which perfectly suits the theatre’s intimate and relaxed ambiance. The venue also features a private members’ bar and a cocktail club, enhancing the social experience of theatre-going. Its location between Leicester Square and Covent Garden places it amidst London’s bustling entertainment district, with easy access to dining, shopping, and nightlife.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 6-7 Great Newport Street, the Arts Theatre is centrally located in London’s West End, close to Leicester Square and Covent Garden. It is well-served by public transport, with nearby Charing Cross railway and tube stations and numerous bus routes. The theatre opens one hour before performances, with seating commencing about thirty minutes prior, allowing visitors to enjoy the café and bar facilities. Despite its small size, the venue offers a welcoming atmosphere that draws theatre enthusiasts seeking a more personal and engaging experience in the heart of London’s theatre scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agatha Christie memorial
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Historic Seven Dials
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Mary Poppins Statue
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Covent Garden, street shows
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Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
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Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
Swiss Glockenspiel
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A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
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Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Chinatown Gate
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Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
Huntfun Covent Garden
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Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
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Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Café de Paris
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Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
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Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Plaque: David Garrick
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Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
St Giles in the Fields
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Medieval leper hospital turned Palladian masterpiece—nearly 1000 years of London's sacred and troubled history
Unmissable attractions to see
West End
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Experience London’s vibrant West End, the iconic hub of world-class theatres, premier shopping streets, and rich cultural heritage.
St Martin's Courtyard
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Covent Garden's chic courtyard escape: stylish shops, global eats, and pop-up magic in a reborn urban haven.
Noël Coward Theatre
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Historic West End theatre blending classical elegance with world-class drama and comedy in the heart of London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Hippodrome Casino London
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Experience London’s iconic Hippodrome Casino: historic grandeur meets 24/7 gaming, fine dining, and world-class live entertainment in Leicester Square.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
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Discover rare literary treasures and timeless classics at Henry Pordes Books, a cherished second-hand bookshop on historic Charing Cross Road.
St. Martin's Theatre
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Historic West End theatre famed for hosting The Mousetrap, offering intimate performances in a charming Georgian setting near Seven Dials.
House of Spells
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Step into House of Spells, London’s enchanting two-floor shop offering authentic Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles in a magical, immersive setting.
Charing Cross Rd
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Explore Charing Cross Road, London’s iconic street famed for legendary bookshops, theatres, and a vibrant cultural pulse in the West End.
The Ambassadors Theatre
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Experience intimate West End theatre history and timeless performances at the charming Ambassadors Theatre in London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Slingsby Place
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Discover the serene charm of Slingsby Place, a historic pedestrian courtyard in Covent Garden with lush greenery, dining, and cultural flair.
Cecil Court
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Discover Cecil Court, a historic London street famed for its Victorian charm, rare bookshops, early cinema heritage, and a brief Mozart residency.
Goodwin’s Court
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Step into Goodwin’s Court, a hidden Georgian alley in Covent Garden where history, mystery, and cinematic magic blend in timeless charm.
Vue Cinema London - West End (Leicester Square)
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Experience cutting-edge cinema luxury and immersive screenings in the vibrant heart of London’s Leicester Square.
Zoo Bar & Club
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Dive into London’s nightlife at Zoo Bar & Club, a cocktail haven offering themed parties, delicious drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere right in the city center.
Mercer Walk
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Discover Mercer Walk, a charming cobbled alley in Covent Garden filled with boutiques, cafes, and artistic flair, offering a peaceful urban retreat.
Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
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Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
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Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Clos Maggiore
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Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Palm Court Brasserie
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Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
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Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Meet Fresh
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Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Gauthier Soho
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Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Punch & Judy
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Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Rules
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London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Chez Antoinette
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Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoppers Soho
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Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Britain
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Alice Through The Looking Glass
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MUJI Covent Garden Store
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Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Cool Britania
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Urban Outfitters
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Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
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Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Good
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The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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M&M'S London
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Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
Foyles
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London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Pop Boutique
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The Moomin Shop London
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La Boutik
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Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Rokit Covent Garden
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Covent Garden Social Club
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The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
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Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
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Oriole
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Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
Ku Bar
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Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Blind Spot London
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Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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The Escapologist Bar
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Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Bar Termini
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Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
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Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Swift Soho
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Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
All Bar One Covent Garden
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Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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The Harp, Covent Garden
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A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Mrs Riot
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Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
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The Ivy Club
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Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Penthouse London
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A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Roxy
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Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Club49Soho
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Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
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Luxe Club
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Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sophisticats Soho
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An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger London
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Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Versity Camp Nightclub
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Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
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A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
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Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Heaven
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London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
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A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
TSQ Club
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Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Intimate
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
