Seven Dials
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Seven Dials is a historic neighbourhood in London's West End, centred around an iconic star-shaped junction where seven atmospheric streets converge. Home to over 90 independent boutiques, international fashion brands, and 50+ restaurants, cafés, and bars, this vibrant quarter blends Georgian architecture with contemporary culture. The landmark Seven Dials Monument features six sundials, with the column itself serving as the seventh. Originally laid out in the early 1690s, the area has transformed from a notorious slum into one of London's most distinctive shopping and lifestyle destinations, offering everything from quirky independent shops to award-winning restaurants and West End theatres.
A brief summary to Seven Dials
- London, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Neal's Yard for alfresco dining among colourful Victorian buildings and occasional live performances—arrive early for outdoor seating as tables are limited and first-come, first-served.
- Explore Seven Dials Market in the Banana Warehouse for independent food vendors, including the world's first cheese conveyor belt and diverse international cuisine options.
- Time your visit to catch a show at Seven Dials Playhouse or Cambridge Theatre, then enjoy pre-theatre dining at local restaurants offering prix fixe menus and extended hours.
- Look for the two blue plaques marking Seven Dials' cultural heritage: one honouring Brian Epstein at 13 Monmouth Street and another identifying Monty Python's studios in Neal's Yard.
- Rent a bicycle from stations on Moor Street, Drury Lane, Earnshaw Street, or High Holborn to explore the neighbourhood and surrounding Covent Garden and Soho areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground (Tube)
Covent Garden station (Piccadilly Line) is the closest, approximately 3 minutes' walk from Seven Dials. Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Lines) and Tottenham Court Road (Northern, Central, and Elizabeth Lines) are each 4–5 minutes' walk away. Holborn station (Central and Piccadilly Lines) is approximately 6 minutes' walk. All stations operate frequent services throughout the day and evening, with typical wait times of 2–5 minutes during peak hours and 5–10 minutes off-peak. Single fares within central London zones cost approximately £1.75–£2.80 depending on payment method and time of travel.
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Mainline Train
Charing Cross railway station is the nearest mainline station, approximately 10–12 minutes' walk from Seven Dials. Services connect to destinations across southern England, with typical journey times to major cities ranging from 1–3 hours. Ticket prices vary widely depending on destination and advance booking; expect £10–£50+ for regional journeys. The station is well-signposted from Seven Dials, and the walk passes through central London streets.
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Cycling
Cycle Scheme docking stations are located on Moor Street, Drury Lane, Earnshaw Street, and High Holborn, all within walking distance of Seven Dials. Bike rental typically costs £2–£3.50 per 30-minute period or £15–£25 for daily passes. The neighbourhood is pedestrian-friendly with dedicated cycle lanes connecting to Covent Garden and Soho. Terrain is flat and suitable for all cycling abilities.
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Walking
Seven Dials is highly walkable from surrounding attractions. From Covent Garden Market, the walk takes 3–5 minutes; from Leicester Square, approximately 4–6 minutes; from Soho, 8–10 minutes. The streets are narrow, often crowded, and paved with cobblestones, making comfortable walking shoes essential. The area is well-lit and busy throughout the day and evening, with clear signage to the central Monument. Walking is the best way to discover the neighbourhood's independent shops, hidden courtyards, and local character.
Seven Dials location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Seven Dials
A Star-Shaped Vision from the Georgian Era
Seven Dials was established in the early 1690s by Thomas Neale, an ambitious Member of Parliament who envisioned creating London's most fashionable address. Neale's ingenious design laid out the neighbourhood as a series of triangles radiating from a central point, maximising the number of rental properties while creating a distinctive star-shaped street pattern that remains intact today. The seven streets were originally named to attract wealthy residents: Great and Little Earl Street, Great and Little White Lion Street, Great and Little St Andrew's Street, and Queen Street. Though the names have since been simplified or changed to avoid duplication with other London streets, the original street signs can still be spotted attached to historic buildings throughout the area.From Gin Dens to Gentrification
Despite Neale's aspirations, Seven Dials failed to establish itself as an exclusive enclave and instead deteriorated into a notorious slum by the 18th century. The area became infamous for its gin shops and criminal underworld, with each of the seven apexes facing the central monument housing a pub. Legend has it that the cellars and vaults beneath these establishments were interconnected, providing convenient escape routes for those seeking to evade the law. This colourful past contrasts sharply with the neighbourhood's modern identity. The transformation accelerated through the 20th century, and today Seven Dials stands as a thriving, prosperous quarter that honours its heritage while embracing contemporary culture.The Monument and Architectural Character
At the heart of Seven Dials stands the iconic Monument, a column bearing six ornate sundials with the column itself functioning as the seventh. This architectural centrepiece has become the symbolic heart of the neighbourhood and remains one of London's great architectural set pieces. The area's Georgian buildings retain many original features despite 19th and 20th-century redevelopment. Over 25 percent of the area's buildings have been listed since 1974, preserving the historic character of narrow cobbled streets lined with period facades. The Cambridge Theatre occupies one of the seven apexes, while the Radisson Edwardian Mercer Street Hotel and the Comyn Ching Triangle—a block of buildings renovated during the 1980s—anchor other corners of the junction.Cultural Landmarks and Historic Connections
Seven Dials carries significant cultural weight in London's creative history. Two blue plaques mark important milestones: one at 13 Monmouth Street commemorates the location where Brian Epstein, manager of The Beatles, ran his successful management company NEMS, officially unveiled by entertainer Cilla Black in 2010. Another plaque in Neal's Yard identifies the Animation, Editing and Recording Studios of Monty Python, where the comedy troupe's members Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam worked from 1976 to 1987. The Seven Dials Playhouse, established in 1994 by Sir Alan Bates as the Tristan Bates Theatre, continues to serve as an Off West End fringe venue with a 100-seat capacity, honouring his son's memory.Shopping, Dining, and Contemporary Culture
Today, Seven Dials thrives as a modern London destination hosting over 90 fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stores alongside more than 50 independent restaurants, cafés, and bars. The neighbourhood balances international flagships with independent boutiques run by London designers and artisans, offering everything from luxury cosmetics to quirky home décor and personalised gifts. Seven Dials Market, housed in the Banana Warehouse, showcases independent food and drink vendors including the world's first cheese conveyor belt, alongside vegan options and Asian cuisine. The colourful Neal's Yard courtyard provides alfresco dining among vibrant facades and occasionally hosts performances and live shows. The area's theatre scene extends beyond the Seven Dials Playhouse to include the Cambridge Theatre and proximity to West End venues, with many restaurants offering prix fixe menus and extended hours for theatre-goers.A Living Neighbourhood Between Past and Present
Seven Dials occupies a unique position in London's geography, nestled between the bustling Covent Garden to the southeast and Soho to the north, linked by seven atmospheric streets that create a village-like atmosphere despite their central London location. The narrow streets, often crowded with people, move at a slower pace than surrounding areas, offering respite from the city's intensity. Community events throughout the year—including the annual Christmas light switch-on and summer festival—foster a sense of neighbourhood identity. The area welcomes all visitors, with step-free access, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and assistance dogs welcome, making it an inclusive destination for diverse audiences seeking authentic London culture, independent shopping, quality dining, and live entertainment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
Denmark St
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Britain's legendary Tin Pan Alley where rock and roll history was written in every studio, café, and guitar shop.
Goodwin’s Court
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Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
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.
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.
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.
Bow St
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Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Royal Opera House
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Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
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.
Cecil Court
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Step into a cobbled alley where books, history, and magic converge in the heart of London.
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.
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.
Soho Square Gardens
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Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cambridge Theatre
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Experience world-class West End theatre in an intimate Art Deco venue at the heart of London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
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Discover the finest British and Irish cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
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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
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Intimate stand-up comedy in the heart of Covent Garden with top international acts and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Neal's Yard
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Discover Neal's Yard, a colorful, hidden courtyard in Covent Garden bursting with independent shops, artisan eateries, and vibrant charm.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
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A vibrant, colorful courtyard in Covent Garden where alternative culture, sustainability, and community spirit thrive in the heart of London.
ODEON Covent Garden
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Historic West End theatre turned iconic cinema, now poised for a vibrant new chapter in live arts and hospitality on Shaftesbury Avenue.
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.
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.
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.
Neal St
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Discover Neal Street, a vibrant Covent Garden street blending historic charm with trendy shops, cafés, and cultural energy in London's iconic Seven Dials.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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Europe’s largest sci-fi and fantasy megastore in London’s West End, a paradise for comic, manga, and pop culture fans.
The Phoenix Garden
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A vibrant community garden and wildlife haven offering a peaceful green escape in London’s bustling West End.
covent Garden ,
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Historic piazza and vibrant cultural hub blending London’s heritage with luxury shopping, theatre, and lively street performances.
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.
Essential places to dine
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.
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.
Circus
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Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
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.
Inamo Covent Garden
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A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
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.
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.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Noble Rot Soho
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A Soho gem blending historic charm with modern European cuisine and an exceptional, accessible wine list in a cozy, clubby setting.
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.
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.
J Sheekey
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Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Gauthier Soho
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Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
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.
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
Good
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Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials 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.
Pop Boutique
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Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
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.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
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Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Rokit Covent Garden
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Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Primark
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Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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 Ivy Club
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Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Carwash Nightclub
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Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
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.
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.
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.
Luxe Club
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Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
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
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Scenic
- Casual
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Street Art
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
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
- Business Friendly
