Bar Soho: Vibrant Cocktail and Dance Venue in London's Heart
A lively Soho hotspot blending quirky design, great cocktails, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of London’s entertainment district.
Bar Soho, located at 23-25 Old Compton Street in London, is a lively two-floor cocktail bar and nightclub known for its vibrant atmosphere, quirky decor, and excellent cocktails. With a funfair-themed ground floor and a cozy Parisian-style boudoir upstairs, it offers a versatile space for dancing, socializing, and private events. Popular for its happy hour and late-night DJ sets, Bar Soho is a hotspot for both locals and visitors seeking energetic nightlife in Soho.
A brief summary to Bar Soho
- 23-25 Old Compton St, London, W1D 5JL, GB
- +442074390439
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-1 am
- Thursday 3 pm-1 am
- Friday 3 pm-3 am
- Saturday 12 pm-3 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12:30 am
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour (4pm–11pm) for excellent cocktail deals and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends, to avoid queues and secure a good spot.
- Explore the upstairs boudoir bar for a more intimate setting with unique vintage decor.
- Prepare for loud music later in the evening; it’s ideal for dancing but may limit conversation.
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
Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Bar Soho. The station is served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines, with frequent trains running throughout the day. Tickets typically cost £2.50-£5 depending on travel zones.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations usually takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £8-£15. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking in Soho make this a convenient but sometimes slower option.
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Walking
If you are nearby in Soho or Leicester Square, walking to Bar Soho is easy and enjoyable, taking about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The area is pedestrian-friendly but can be busy in the evenings.
Bar Soho 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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bar Soho
A Hub of Soho Nightlife and Design
Bar Soho stands prominently on Old Compton Street, a central artery of London's iconic Soho district. This two-floor venue combines playful and stylish design elements to create a unique nightlife experience. The ground floor embraces a whimsical fairground theme, featuring carousel-inspired seating and vibrant mirrored walls that reflect the buzz of the crowd. Upstairs, the boudoir bar offers a contrasting intimate ambiance, styled like a Parisian apartment with eclectic antique furnishings and funky chandeliers. This blend of lively and cozy spaces caters to a wide range of moods and occasions.Signature Cocktails and Dynamic Atmosphere
The bar is celebrated for its well-crafted cocktails offered at reasonable prices, especially during its popular happy hour from late afternoon to evening. The drink menu includes classics and inventive mixes, served by attentive bartenders who often receive praise for their friendly service. As night deepens, DJs take over, energizing the space with commercial and party mash-up music that transforms the venue into a vibrant dance floor. The atmosphere is lively and fun-filled, appealing to those looking to dance or socialize in a buzzing environment.Versatile Venue for Events and Celebrations
Bar Soho is also a sought-after location for private hire, accommodating up to 300 guests. Its adaptable layout makes it ideal for Christmas parties, corporate events, and special celebrations. The private room upstairs offers exclusivity with a dedicated entrance, private bar, and toilets, making it perfect for more intimate gatherings. The venue’s ability to shift from a relaxed daytime lounge to a high-energy nightclub ensures it remains a versatile choice for diverse events.Community and Staff Dynamics
The staff at Bar Soho have received mixed feedback; many commend the friendliness and attentiveness of bartenders and door staff, while some reviews note occasional lapses in service quality. Management, including the noted presence of manager Laura, is recognized for fostering a welcoming environment and maintaining the venue’s energetic vibe. The door team is known for efficient guest management, especially during busy weekend nights.Location and Surrounding Scene
Situated in the heart of Soho, Bar Soho benefits from its proximity to Leicester Square and other nightlife hubs, making it a convenient stop for an evening out. The area is renowned for its eclectic mix of bars, clubs, and theatres, contributing to the venue’s vibrant social scene. The venue’s design and lively music create an immersive experience that captures the essence of Soho’s nightlife culture.Experience and Ambience
Visitors can expect a blend of casual and stylish vibes, with a focus on fun and entertainment. The venue’s quirky aesthetic, from bathtub seating to dazzling mirrored walls, adds character and makes it a memorable spot for nightlife enthusiasts. Whether enjoying a relaxed cocktail during the day or dancing late into the night, Bar Soho offers a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that embodies the spirit of London’s Soho district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Denmark St
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Historic Seven Dials
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Leicester Square
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Seven Dials
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Harry Potter Statue
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Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
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
Agatha Christie memorial
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A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
1 Soho Place
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Explore 1 Soho Place: A vibrant business park in London's Soho, surrounded by eclectic eateries, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Mr Bean Statue
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Explore the whimsical Mr. Bean Statue in Leicester Square, a must-see landmark that captures the charm and humor of British culture in the heart of London.
Swiss Glockenspiel
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Mary Poppins Statue
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Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Café de Paris
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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.
Mercer Walk
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Experience the enchanting Mercer Walk in London, a charming alley brimming with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artistic flair that captures the city's spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
London Pub Crawl
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Unleash your night in London with the ultimate pub crawl, exploring iconic bars, great deals, and a vibrant social scene.
Prince Edward Theatre
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Experience the magic of live theatre at Prince Edward Theatre, a historic venue in London’s vibrant West End, showcasing spectacular performances.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
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Discover the vibrant soul of London’s West End with an immersive self-guided tour through Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown’s cultural and culinary gems.
Ronnie Scott's
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Experience world-class live jazz nightly at Ronnie Scott’s, London’s legendary Soho club since 1959, where music history and vibrant atmosphere meet.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
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Discover the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Coach & Horses, a celebrated pub in the heart of Soho, London.
Curzon Soho
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Discover independent cinema culture in the heart of Soho with stylish screenings, cozy cafés, and a vibrant social scene at Curzon Soho.
The Spice Of Life
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Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending tradition, vibrant culture, and boutique lodging in the heart of London.
Club49Soho
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club49 Soho, a premier bar and live music venue in the heart of London's iconic Soho district.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
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Discover London’s tiniest gallery on Dean Street, where big ideas shine through a small window, open 24/7 to inspire and engage all who pass by.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Admiral Duncan, Soho's iconic bar and pub, celebrating inclusivity and entertainment in the heart of London.
Palace Theatre
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A grand West End theatre since 1891, now home to the magical Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the heart of London’s theatreland.
Shaftesbury Ave
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Shaftesbury Avenue pulses with theatre lights, historic charm, and vibrant culture at the heart of London’s West End entertainment district.
Foyles
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Explore Foyles, London's legendary bookshop, where literature, coffee, and culture blend seamlessly in a vibrant atmosphere.
Nose sculpture
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Explore the Nose Sculpture in London, a quirky landmark that embodies creativity and invites playful interaction in the heart of the city.
St Anne's Churchyard
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A serene historic garden in Soho, resting on centuries of rich cultural and social heritage beneath its raised grounds.
Essential places to dine
Gauthier Soho
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Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
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.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Meet Fresh
0.1 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Quo Vadis
0.2 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Noble Rot Soho
0.2 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Evelyn's Table
0.3 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Inamo
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Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Blacklock Soho
0.3 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Bantof
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Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
J Sheekey
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Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
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.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.4 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
JW Anderson London Soho
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Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Goldsmith Vintage
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Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Machine-A
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Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Glassworks London - Soho
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Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Sounds of the Universe
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Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
Unique Britain
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
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.
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates
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Artisan chocolate craftsmanship in the heart of Soho, where award-winning sea salted caramels and inventive flavours await.
M&M'S London
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St Martin's Courtyard
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Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Radha's Boutique
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Pop Up 38
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Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Book
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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.
Bar Termini
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An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Simmons Bar | Soho
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Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Thirst Bar Soho
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Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
The Little Scarlet Door
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Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Henson's Bar and Social
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Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
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Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
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.
Covent Garden Social Club
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Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
Basement Sate
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Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Duke of Argyll
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Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
The Thin White Duke
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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.
Prelude by Oriole
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A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Capannina Club
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Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
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.
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.
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 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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
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Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Zoo Bar & Club
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Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
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.
St Moritz Club
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Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
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.
Luxe Club
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Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sunset night club
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Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Teen Friendly