Forbidden Planet London Megastore
Europe’s largest sci-fi and fantasy megastore in London’s West End, a paradise for comic, manga, and pop culture fans.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore, located at 179 Shaftesbury Avenue, is the UK's largest and most renowned retailer specializing in science fiction, fantasy, comics, and pop culture collectibles. Spanning two floors, it offers an extensive selection of graphic novels, exclusive comics, action figures, toys, and gaming accessories. Situated in the vibrant West End near Covent Garden, it is a must-visit destination for fans of nerd culture and collectors alike.
A brief summary to Forbidden Planet London Megastore
- 179 Shaftesbury Ave, London, WC2H 8JR, GB
- +442074203666
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid the busiest crowds, especially in the afternoons.
- Explore both floors thoroughly to find exclusive signed comics and discounted items.
- Check the store’s event calendar for author signings and special pop culture gatherings.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Covent Garden and Leicester Square for a full day out.
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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Underground
Take the London Underground to Tottenham Court Road or Covent Garden stations. Both are approximately a 5-minute walk from the store. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6 depending on the zone and ticket type, with frequent service throughout the day.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes serve Shaftesbury Avenue, including routes 14, 19, and 38. Bus travel times vary but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. A contactless payment card or Oyster card is required, with fares around £1.75 per ride.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to 179 Shaftesbury Avenue. Travel time depends on traffic but usually takes 10–20 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £8 to £20.
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Walking
If you are in the Covent Garden or Leicester Square area, walking to the store takes about 10 minutes over flat, paved streets. The route is accessible and pleasant, passing through vibrant parts of the West End.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore 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 Forbidden Planet London Megastore
A Sanctuary for Pop Culture Enthusiasts
Forbidden Planet London Megastore stands as a landmark in the heart of London’s West End, specifically on Shaftesbury Avenue. Since its relocation to this spacious venue in 2003, the store has grown into Europe’s largest and most comprehensive hub for science fiction, fantasy, comics, manga, and cult entertainment merchandise. Its two expansive floors are a treasure trove for enthusiasts, featuring everything from rare graphic novels and signed editions to collectible figurines and exclusive memorabilia.Immersive Shopping Experience Across Two Floors
The ground floor welcomes visitors with an impressive array of action figures, toys, and pop culture merchandise, including iconic items from Star Wars, Marvel, and popular anime series. Descending to the basement reveals a vast library of over 25,000 books and graphic novels, covering genres from superhero epics to niche manga titles, including shoujo, josei, and LGBT+ themes. The store also offers discounted items and special editions, making it a paradise for collectors and casual fans alike.Location and Surrounding Attractions
Strategically positioned between Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and Tottenham Court Road, Forbidden Planet is easily accessible and perfect for combining with a day exploring London’s entertainment district. Nearby attractions include theaters, vibrant markets like Seven Dials, and diverse dining options. The store’s location in this bustling cultural hub adds to its dynamic atmosphere and appeal.Events and Community Engagement
Beyond retail, Forbidden Planet hosts regular author signings, artist appearances, and special events that celebrate the worlds of comics, gaming, and science fiction. These gatherings foster a strong community spirit among fans and provide unique opportunities to meet creators and fellow enthusiasts.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Originating from a small store on Denmark Street in 1978, Forbidden Planet has evolved into a cultural institution for geek and pop culture fans worldwide. Its London Megastore continues this legacy by offering an unparalleled selection of merchandise and serving as a vibrant meeting place for fans of all ages.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The store’s lively and colorful interior, combined with knowledgeable staff, creates an inviting environment where visitors can immerse themselves in their favorite fandoms. Whether browsing for the latest comic releases or hunting for rare collectibles, the experience is both exciting and welcoming, making it a highlight for locals and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Denmark St
0.1 km
Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Historic Seven Dials
0.2 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.2 km
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.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant O Hello Sunshine sculpture in London, a historical landmark that embodies creativity and community spirit amidst the city's artistic landscape.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.4 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.4 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.4 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Bow St
0.4 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Royal Opera House
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, where street performances, shopping, and history come together in the heart of London.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.5 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Goodwin’s Court
0.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
Cecil Court
0.5 km
Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Giles in the Fields
0.1 km
Explore St Giles in the Fields, a stunning Anglican church in London, rich in history and architectural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat in the city.
Neal's Yard
0.1 km
Discover Neal's Yard, a colorful, hidden courtyard in Covent Garden bursting with independent shops, artisan eateries, and vibrant charm.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
0.1 km
A vibrant, colorful courtyard in Covent Garden where alternative culture, sustainability, and community spirit thrive in the heart of London.
The Phoenix Garden
0.1 km
A vibrant community garden and wildlife haven offering a peaceful green escape in London’s bustling West End.
ODEON Covent Garden
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre turned iconic cinema, now poised for a vibrant new chapter in live arts and hospitality on Shaftesbury Avenue.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.1 km
Discover the finest British and Irish cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
covent Garden ,
0.1 km
Historic piazza and vibrant cultural hub blending London’s heritage with luxury shopping, theatre, and lively street performances.
12 Bar Club
0.1 km
Historic London music venue famed for intimate gigs, antifolk festivals, and a vibrant independent spirit on legendary Denmark Street.
The Shaftesbury Theatre
0.1 km
Experience iconic West End theatre in a historic, steel-framed London venue renowned for its rich heritage and outstanding performances.
Seven Dials
0.1 km
Explore Seven Dials, a historic and vibrant area in London filled with unique shops, charming cafes, and cultural experiences that embody the city's spirit.
Phoenix Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the elegant, Italian-inspired Phoenix Theatre on Charing Cross Road, home to iconic productions since 1930.
Cambridge Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in an intimate Art Deco venue at the heart of London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Phoenix Arts Club
0.2 km
West End's best-kept secret: intimate cabaret, burlesque, and theatre in a deliberately seductive speakeasy.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the best of London’s nightlife at Comedy Carnival Covent Garden, where top comedians bring laughter to life in an intimate setting.
Seven Dials Comedy @ The Seven Dials Club
0.2 km
Intimate stand-up comedy in the heart of Covent Garden with top international acts and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.2 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Circus
0.2 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.2 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Noble Rot Soho
0.3 km
A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.3 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Hoppers Soho
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Gauthier Soho
0.4 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Margot
0.4 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Meet Fresh
0.4 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.1 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Good
0.2 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Goldsmith Vintage
0.2 km
Iconic Soho vintage shop since 1990: two floors of handpicked retro dresses, blazers, bags & accessories from decades past, with sales from £10.95.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.2 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.3 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Primark
0.3 km
Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.3 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
0.3 km
A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
Fancy That of London
0.3 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Radha's Boutique
0.4 km
A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
La Boutik
0.4 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Floral Street
0.4 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Unique Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Escapologist Bar
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Bar Termini
0.2 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
Swift Soho
0.2 km
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.
The Coral Room
0.3 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
Prelude by Oriole
0.3 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
The Little Scarlet Door
0.3 km
Step through the scarlet door to a playful Soho loft bar alive with inventive cocktails, secret rooms, and a lively house party vibe.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.3 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.3 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
The Black Book
0.3 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.3 km
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)
Henson's Bar and Social
0.3 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Ku Bar
0.4 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.4 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.4 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Nellie Dean
0.4 km
A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Roxy
0.1 km
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.
The Ivy Club
0.2 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
La Capannina Club
0.3 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.4 km
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.
Carwash Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.5 km
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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
St Moritz Club
0.5 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
101 Nightclub London
0.6 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.6 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- 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