Cool Britannia: London's Iconic Souvenir and Photography Experience
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Cool Britannia, located at 5-6 Leicester Square in central London, is one of the city's largest and most vibrant souvenir shops. It offers a wide range of British-themed gifts including mugs, keychains, and clothing, alongside a unique photography studio where visitors can dress in period costumes. Its prime location near Buckingham Palace makes it a popular stop for tourists seeking memorable keepsakes and fun photo opportunities.
A brief summary to Cool Britania
- 5-6 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the photography studio to take unique photos in period costumes for a memorable souvenir.
- Look out for special collections commemorating British royal events and cultural icons.
- Shop for a variety of gifts including mugs, keychains, and themed bags that celebrate London.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a less crowded shopping experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Cool Britania location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cool Britania
A Hub of British Souvenirs and Memorabilia
Cool Britannia stands as a landmark souvenir shop in the heart of London, renowned for its extensive range of British-themed gifts. From classic mugs featuring London skylines to iconic red telephone box money boxes and bus-themed bags, the store offers a rich variety of memorabilia that celebrates British culture. Visitors can find everything from keychains and magnets to clothing and special collections, such as commemorative items for King Charles III’s coronation and Paddington Bear merchandise.Immersive Photography Studio Experience
Beyond shopping, Cool Britannia offers a distinctive photography studio where visitors can don historical costumes from various eras. This interactive feature allows guests to create personalized keepsakes by capturing themselves in traditional British attire, adding a playful and memorable dimension to their visit. The studio is well-regarded for the quality of its photographs and the friendly, helpful staff who assist in the experience.Prime Location in Leicester Square
Situated at 5-6 Leicester Square, Cool Britannia benefits from a central London location that is easily accessible to tourists exploring major landmarks. Its proximity to Buckingham Palace and other cultural attractions makes it a convenient stop for visitors wanting to take home authentic British souvenirs. The store’s vibrant atmosphere and colorful displays contribute to its appeal as a lively retail destination in one of London’s busiest entertainment districts.Shopping Environment and Visitor Appeal
The shop is noted for its clean, well-organized layout and a wide selection of products catering to diverse tastes. It attracts families, solo travelers, and souvenir collectors alike, offering something for every visitor. While prices are generally reasonable for the quality offered, the store emphasizes quality merchandise over bargain pricing. The staff’s friendly service enhances the welcoming environment, although some visitors have noted occasional variability in customer interactions.Special Collections and Seasonal Highlights
Cool Britannia frequently updates its inventory to reflect current events and British cultural milestones. For example, it features special ranges commemorating royal occasions and popular British icons. This dynamic product offering ensures that repeat visitors can discover new items and limited-edition souvenirs, making each visit unique.A Destination for Authentic British Keepsakes
As one of London’s largest souvenir shops, Cool Britannia offers a comprehensive British cultural experience through its products and services. It combines traditional souvenir shopping with interactive elements, making it a memorable destination for tourists seeking to capture a piece of London’s spirit. Whether browsing classic gifts or engaging in the costume photography studio, visitors leave with tangible memories of their time in the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Poppins Statue
0.0 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.2 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.3 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.3 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Shaftesbury Ave
0.3 km
Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Goodwin’s Court
0.3 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.3 km
London's grand civic heart: Nelson's victory immortalised in stone, surrounded by world-class art and democratic tradition.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
The Fourth Plinth
0.3 km
A historic plinth turned world-renowned stage for bold contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
Canada House
0.3 km
A grand Greek Revival building on Trafalgar Square, Canada House is a cultural and diplomatic showcase for Canada in the heart of London.
Trafalgar Square
0.3 km
Explore the iconic Trafalgar Square, a historical landmark in London filled with art, culture, and vibrant public life.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.4 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Unmissable attractions to see
Harry Potter Statue
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Harry Potter Statue in Leicester Square, capturing the magic of Quidditch and London’s cinematic legacy.
Mr Bean Statue
0.0 km
Sit beside cinema's most beloved bumbler in Leicester Square's iconic film tribute.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in London’s Leicester Square, where creativity, iconic models, and exclusive experiences await every fan.
M&M'S London
0.1 km
Discover the colorful world of M&M'S in London, where every visit is a sweet adventure filled with chocolate delights and interactive fun.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.1 km
Experience the charm of the Swiss Glockenspiel in London, where art and tradition meet in a captivating clock tower performance.
London self-guided board game tour
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems through a fun, interactive self-guided board game tour at your own pace.
Scenes in the Square Sculpture Trail
0.1 km
Discover a century of cinema through iconic bronze statues in Leicester Square’s free, interactive film-themed sculpture trail.
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.
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.
Chinatown Gate
0.1 km
Step through the ornate Qing Dynasty–style Chinatown Gate into Soho’s vibrant heart, where tradition and modern London life blend in a colorful cultural enclave.
ODEON Luxe West End
0.1 km
Experience luxury cinema and vibrant West End culture at Odeon Luxe West End in the heart of Leicester Square.
Café de Paris
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at Café de Paris, an iconic venue known for live music, exquisite dining, and unforgettable events.
Grosvenor Casino, Piccadilly
0.1 km
Experience nonstop gaming excitement and stylish social vibes in the heart of London’s West End at Grosvenor Casino Piccadilly.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.1 km
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.
Vue Cinema London - West End (Leicester Square)
0.1 km
Experience cutting-edge cinema luxury and immersive screenings in the vibrant heart of London’s Leicester Square.
Essential places to dine
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.
Evelyn's Table
0.1 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Meet Fresh
0.2 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Gauthier Soho
0.2 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Bantof
0.3 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
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.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
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.
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.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cool Britania
0.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Unique Britain
0.1 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
House of Spells
0.2 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
La Boutik
0.2 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
Charing Cross Rd
0.2 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.2 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Machine-A
0.3 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Lillywhites
0.3 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.3 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.3 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.4 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
Foyles
0.4 km
London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.1 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Ku Bar
0.1 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.1 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.2 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)
Duke Of Wellington
0.3 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.3 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.3 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Village Soho
0.3 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.3 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Bar Soho
0.3 km
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.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
0.3 km
Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Blind Spot London
0.3 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
The Thin White Duke
0.3 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Penthouse London
0.0 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Luxe Club
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 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.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.3 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Sophisticats Soho
0.3 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
The Ivy Club
0.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.3 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
0.3 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Club49Soho
0.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
TSQ Club
0.4 km
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.
La Capannina Club
0.4 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
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 Roxy
0.5 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 Cuckoo Club
0.5 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
