The Hippodrome Casino London: A Historic Entertainment Icon in Leicester Square
Historic glamour meets modern gaming and live entertainment in the heart of London’s Leicester Square.
Located in the heart of London’s vibrant Leicester Square, The Hippodrome Casino is a historic entertainment complex blending gaming, live shows, fine dining, and nightlife. Housed in a grand Edwardian building originally opened in 1900 as a variety theatre, it now spans five floors offering poker, roulette, blackjack, cabaret performances, and renowned restaurants. Open 24/7 with a smart casual dress code and full accessibility, it is a premier destination for both locals and visitors seeking glamour and excitement.
A brief summary to The Hippodrome Casino London
- Cranbourn St, Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7JH, GB
- +442077698888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Dress smart casual to blend in with the stylish crowd, but no formal wear is required.
- Arrive early for theatre shows to ensure entry before performances begin.
- Use public transport like Leicester Square or Piccadilly Circus stations to avoid parking hassles.
- Try signature cocktails at the rooftop bars for a unique experience with city views.
- The casino is open 24/7 except Christmas Day, so plan your visit any time for gaming or entertainment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Cloakrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Leicester Square station is the nearest Underground stop, approximately a 5-minute walk from the casino. It is served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. Trains run frequently, with typical journey times from central London locations ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. The station offers step-free access to street level.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the Leicester Square area, including routes 24, 29, 176, and 188. Bus stops are located within a short walk of the casino. Services run regularly throughout the day and evening, with fares payable via Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi / Ride-Hailing
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services such as Uber provide direct access to Cranbourn Street. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London landmarks. Note that parking is limited and expensive in the area.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in the West End, the casino is easily accessible on foot via well-lit, paved streets. Walking times from Piccadilly Circus or Covent Garden are approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The route is flat and suitable for wheelchair users.
The Hippodrome Casino London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Hippodrome Casino London
A Storied Venue with a Rich Legacy
The Hippodrome Casino London first opened its doors in 1900 as a variety theatre designed by the famed architect Frank Matcham. Initially a bustling circus and music hall venue, it hosted extravagant revues and live animal acts, becoming a cornerstone of London’s West End entertainment scene. Over the decades, the building evolved through many incarnations including a nightclub, cabaret hall, and theatre, welcoming legendary performers such as Charlie Chaplin, Judy Garland, and Shirley Bassey. A major renovation in 2012 transformed it into the modern casino and entertainment complex it is today, preserving its historic charm while integrating state-of-the-art gaming and performance spaces.A Multifaceted Entertainment Experience
Spanning five floors, The Hippodrome Casino offers a diverse array of experiences under one roof. The main gaming floor features classic table games including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and slots arranged around a richly decorated central atrium. The PokerStars Live Deck provides a dedicated space for poker tournaments and cash games. Beyond gaming, the venue houses the Hippodrome Theatre, a cabaret-style performance space known for shows like Magic Mike Live. Dining options include the acclaimed Heliot Steak House overlooking the gaming floor, alongside several bars and lounges, including rooftop terraces and hidden cocktail bars, catering to a variety of tastes.Accessibility and Guest Comfort
The Hippodrome is committed to inclusivity and accessibility, offering step-free entrances, lifts to all floors, wheelchair-accessible seating in the theatre, and accessible restrooms. Staff are trained to assist guests with mobility or sensory needs, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors. Security is robust, with ID checks (18+ only), bag inspections, and CCTV monitoring throughout the venue. Smoking is prohibited indoors but permitted on outdoor terraces across three floors.Style, Dress Code, and Atmosphere
While there is no strict dress code, smart casual attire is recommended, with many guests opting to dress up for special occasions. The ambiance balances glamour with a relaxed vibe, suitable for both casual nights out and celebratory events. The casino’s interiors combine Edwardian grandeur with modern luxury, creating an opulent yet comfortable setting. The venue’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music and theatrical performances, making it a dynamic hub for nightlife in London.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Cranbourn Street in Leicester Square, The Hippodrome benefits from a prime central London location surrounded by theatres, restaurants, and nightlife. It is easily accessible via Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus Underground stations. The area is known for its bustling energy, making the casino a perfect stop for visitors exploring the West End’s vibrant entertainment district.Additional Amenities and Services
The casino operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week except Christmas Day. It offers three complimentary cloakrooms for small bags and partners with local services for larger luggage storage. Food and drink options include multiple bars, fine dining at Heliot Steak House, and casual eateries. The venue also hosts private events, weddings, and corporate functions, supported by professional event planning services. With its blend of historic elegance, diverse entertainment, and modern amenities, The Hippodrome Casino remains a landmark destination in London’s nightlife scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Mary Poppins Statue
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Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
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.
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.
Historic Seven Dials
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Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Seven Dials
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A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
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.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
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Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
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Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
5 Trafalgar Sq
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London's grand civic heart: Nelson's victory immortalised in stone, surrounded by world-class art and democratic tradition.
The Fourth Plinth
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A historic plinth turned world-renowned stage for bold contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Covent Garden, street shows
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Experience the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, where street performances, shopping, and history come together in the heart of London.
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.
Trafalgar Square
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Explore the iconic Trafalgar Square, a historical landmark in London filled with art, culture, and vibrant public life.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Arts Theatre
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A historic, intimate West End theatre offering close-up performances in a cozy setting since 1927.
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.
Scenes in the Square Sculpture Trail
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Discover a century of cinema through iconic bronze statues in Leicester Square’s free, interactive film-themed sculpture trail.
Noël Coward Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre blending classical elegance with world-class drama and comedy in the heart of London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Prince Charles Cinema
0.1 km
Discover London's iconic independent repertory cinema offering cult classics, arthouse gems, and unforgettable themed screenings in the heart of Leicester Square.
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.
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.
ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
0.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Art Deco cinema with luxury recliners and the UK’s first Dolby Cinema screen in the heart of Leicester Square.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.1 km
Discover rare literary treasures and timeless classics at Henry Pordes Books, a cherished second-hand bookshop on historic Charing Cross Road.
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.
Harry Potter Statue
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Harry Potter Statue in Leicester Square, capturing the magic of Quidditch and London’s cinematic legacy.
Mr Bean Statue
0.2 km
Sit beside cinema's most beloved bumbler in Leicester Square's iconic film tribute.
Leicester Square
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Leicester Square pulses at the heart of London’s West End, a vibrant hub of cinema, theatre, and lively cultural heritage.
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.
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.
Gauthier Soho
0.2 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Clos Maggiore
0.3 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
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.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.3 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
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.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.4 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Rules
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London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
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Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
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.
Floral Street
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Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
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.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
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Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
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.
Foyles
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London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Good
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Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Machine-A
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Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
The Moomin Shop London
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Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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)
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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Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
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.
Blind Spot London
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Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
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.
All Bar One Leicester Square
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Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
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.
Bar Soho
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A theatrical two‑floor cocktail bar on Old Compton Street — daytime drinks and late‑night DJs for dancing, private hire and people‑watching in the heart of Soho.
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.
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.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
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Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
The Black Book
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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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
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 Ivy Club
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Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Luxe Club
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
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.
Club49Soho
0.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Tiger Tiger London
0.3 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly