Leicester Square

A Historic Entertainment Icon Born from Nobility

Leicester Square has evolved dramatically since its creation in the 17th century as a nobleman's private garden. Once notorious as a duelling ground throughout the 1600s, where famous confrontations between aristocratic rivals took place, the square transformed into one of London's most significant cultural landmarks. Today it stands as a testament to London's enduring spirit, seamlessly blending its aristocratic heritage with modern entertainment culture. The square's strategic position in the West End, bordered by Covent Garden, Soho, and Piccadilly Circus, cemented its status as the epicentre of London's entertainment district.

The Cinematic Heart of London

Leicester Square has become synonymous with the film industry, hosting more than 52 star-studded red-carpet premieres each year. The historic Odeon Leicester Square and other prestigious cinemas like Vue and Cineworld line the square, attracting celebrities and film enthusiasts from around the world. These venues have transformed the square into a global symbol of cinematic culture, where the glitz and glamour of Hollywood meets London's theatrical tradition. The red carpets regularly roll out for major film releases, making Leicester Square a destination where you might glimpse A-list stars and experience the electric energy of premiere nights.

Living Statues and Scenes in the Square

One of Leicester Square's most beloved attractions is the Scenes in the Square trail, featuring bronze statues immortalising iconic film characters and scenes. Visitors can take selfies with Mary Poppins, sit beside Paddington Bear, pose with Mr Bean, and encounter Harry Potter, Wonder Woman, Bugs Bunny, Gene Kelly, Charlie Chaplin, Daniel Kaluuya, and Bridget Jones. Each statue includes a QR code linking to a free audio walking tour that brings these cinematic moments to life. Beyond the permanent sculptures, the square comes alive with talented street performers—living statues who remain motionless before surprising passersby, skilled magicians performing sleight-of-hand illusions, musicians with guitars and violins, acrobats, jugglers, and comedians. This constant stream of spontaneous entertainment ensures no two visits are identical.

Theatre, Culture, and West End Glamour

Surrounded by world-class West End theatres, Leicester Square serves as the gateway to London's theatrical district. Nearby venues like the Prince of Wales Theatre, Palace Theatre, Gielgud Theatre, and Criterion Theatre host everything from timeless musicals such as The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables to contemporary hits like Hamilton, The Book of Mormon, and Oliver! The square itself hosts Leicester Square Theatre, known for award-winning improvised comedy. The TKTS booth in the centre of the square offers discounted theatre tickets, making West End shows accessible to visitors. Many restaurants throughout the area offer special pre-theatre menus, allowing visitors to combine dining with cultural experiences.

Shopping and Retail Experiences

Leicester Square has become a shopping destination in its own right. The world's largest LEGO Store occupies a prime location, featuring a 6.5-metre Big Ben with a working illuminated clock, a life-size LEGO tube carriage, and the innovative Mosaic Maker photo booth that transforms your photograph into a personalised LEGO kit. Europe's biggest sweet shop, M&M's World, is spacious enough to house 100 double-decker buses and offers an overwhelming array of confectionery. The Japan Centre provides a unique retail experience with Japanese food, cooking supplies, and unusual gifts. Additional shopping includes the Swiss Centre, home to the Swiss Glockenspiel Clock—a replica of the original in Bern that puts on a fantastic display of moving figures.

Dining, Nightlife, and Seasonal Celebrations

The square offers an abundance of dining options ranging from family favourites like MOD Pizza and TGI Fridays to chic establishments such as Petit Bistro and Leicester Square Kitchen. The area also features several famous casinos including the Hippodrome Casino, Empire Casino, Grosvenor Casino, and Napoleons Casino, housed in beautifully restored buildings. Leicester Square hosts a traditional German Christmas market annually, complete with Christmas food stalls and mulled wine. The central Leicester Square Gardens, redesigned in 2012, features the Grade II listed marble William Shakespeare statue on a pedestal flanked by dolphins, surrounded by fountains with jets shooting 2 metres into the air and illuminated at night. The gardens provide peaceful green space with seating areas, perfect for picnics and relaxation amid the urban energy.