Soho Square Gardens: A Historic Urban Oasis in London
A serene historic garden square in the heart of Soho, blending royal heritage with tranquil green space and vibrant cultural life.
Soho Square Gardens is a tranquil, historic garden square nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant Soho district. Originally laid out in the late 1670s and once known as King’s Square, it features a statue of Charles II and a distinctive mock-Tudorbethan timber-framed building at its center. This green sanctuary offers manicured lawns, flower beds, and seating areas, providing a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city, with a rich cultural heritage and occasional public events.
A brief summary to Soho Square Gardens
- Soho Square, London, W1D 3QP, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays early morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and peaceful relaxation.
- Look out for the unique mock-Tudorbethan timber-framed building at the center, which conceals an electricity substation.
- Bring a book or picnic to enjoy the manicured lawns and benches in this calm urban oasis.
- Explore nearby Soho attractions such as theatres, boutiques, and restaurants to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Tottenham Court Road station, served by the Central and Northern lines. From there, it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to Soho Square Gardens. Note that the station can be busy during peak hours, and walking involves urban pavements. No additional cost beyond the tube fare, which typically ranges from £2.50 to £6 depending on ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Soho Square, including the 14, 19, 38, and 176. Bus travel times vary between 15 and 30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run frequently throughout the day, but may be slower during peak traffic. A contactless payment or Oyster card is recommended, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at Soho Square Gardens. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Fares typically range from £8 to £20 within central London. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking in Soho may affect travel times.
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Walking
If you are near Covent Garden or Leicester Square, walking to Soho Square Gardens takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The route is along paved city streets with some pedestrian crossings. This option is accessible and allows you to enjoy the vibrant Soho neighborhood en route.
Soho Square Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Soho Square Gardens
Origins and Historical Significance
Soho Square Gardens dates back to the late 1670s when it was originally named King’s Square in honor of King Charles II. The square’s centerpiece is a weathered statue of Charles II, carved by Danish sculptor Caius Gabriel Cibber in 1681, symbolizing the restoration of the monarchy. Over time, the name evolved to Soho Square, reflecting the surrounding district. The square’s 30 buildings include 16 listed structures, highlighting its architectural and historic importance. The gardens have been a public park since 1954, managed by the Soho Square Garden Committee and Westminster City Council.Architectural and Garden Features
At the heart of the gardens stands a small, octagonal mock-Tudorbethan timber-framed building, completed in 1926 to conceal an electricity substation. This unique structure adds a quaint charm to the green space. The gardens themselves are beautifully maintained, with manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and plenty of benches inviting visitors to relax. Beneath the square lies a large World War II air-raid shelter, a silent reminder of London’s wartime history. The setting combines historic architecture with serene natural elements, creating a peaceful urban oasis.A Cultural and Social Hub
Soho Square Gardens is more than just a park; it is a cultural landmark within Soho, a district known for its lively arts, nightlife, and diverse communities. The gardens occasionally host open-air concerts and art installations during the summer, celebrating the creative spirit of the area. Its central location makes it a favored spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind, read, or meet friends. The square’s proximity to theatres, boutiques, and restaurants enriches the visitor experience, blending relaxation with the vibrant energy of Soho.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Soho Square Gardens find a calm retreat from the surrounding city bustle. The lawns offer space for picnics or quiet contemplation, while benches provide comfortable spots to enjoy the garden’s beauty. The blend of historic elements and lush greenery creates a timeless atmosphere. The garden’s layout encourages leisurely strolls and photography, with the statue of Charles II and the timber-framed building serving as iconic focal points. The garden’s accessibility and open hours from 8 am to 6 pm daily make it an inviting destination year-round.Environmental and Community Stewardship
Managed by a dedicated garden committee, Soho Square Gardens exemplifies community stewardship in an urban setting. The garden’s upkeep respects its historic character while promoting sustainability through careful landscaping and maintenance. It serves as a green lung in central London, supporting urban biodiversity and offering a habitat for local wildlife. The garden’s role as a protected, publicly accessible space underscores the importance of preserving such historic urban parks for future generations.Legacy and Continuing Relevance
Soho Square Gardens remains a cherished landmark reflecting London’s layered history and evolving urban life. From its royal origins to its modern-day role as a peaceful green space, it embodies the intersection of heritage, culture, and community. The garden’s enduring presence amidst Soho’s dynamic environment highlights its unique contribution to the city’s character and offers visitors a meaningful connection to London’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
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Denmark St
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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.
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.
covent Garden ,
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Explore Covent Garden's vibrant atmosphere filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of London.
Chinatown Gate
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Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
The Photographers' Gallery
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Explore the captivating world of photography at The Photographers' Gallery, London's premier destination for stunning exhibitions and engaging workshops.
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.
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.
Spirit of Soho Mural
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Discover the Spirit of Soho Mural, a captivating tribute to London's vibrant culture and artistic heritage in the heart of Soho.
Bedford Square & Montague Pl
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Discover Bedford Square & Montague Place, a serene Georgian oasis in Bloomsbury with elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Leicester Square
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London's glittering entertainment epicentre where cinema, theatre, and street culture converge in the heart of the West End.
Goodge St
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Discover the charm of Goodge Street in London, where history meets vibrant culture, shopping, and diverse dining options.
Harry Potter Statue
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Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
Slingsby Place
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Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Soho Square
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Discover the charm of Soho Square, a vibrant public garden in London's West End, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
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A vibrant rainbow sculpture celebrating Soho’s LGBTQ+ community spirit and creativity in the heart of London’s cultural district.
Self-Guided London Beatles Tour
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Explore London’s Beatles landmarks at your own pace with an immersive self-guided audio tour featuring iconic sites and hidden gems.
Victorian Penny Chute
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Discover the Victorian Penny Chute in Soho—a charming historic coin chute that channels charity donations through time at the House of St Barnabas.
The Nellie Dean
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Historic Soho pub serving classic ales and hearty pies in a lively, welcoming atmosphere since the 18th century.
1 Soho Place
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Contemporary business park in the heart of Soho, blending modern workspaces with London's vibrant cultural scene.
Priscilla The Party
0.2 km
Experience the dazzling, immersive drag musical party inspired by Priscilla Queen of the Desert at HERE at Outernet, Soho’s cutting-edge venue.
Club49Soho
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club49 Soho, a premier bar and live music venue in the heart of London's iconic Soho district.
Nose sculpture
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Explore the Nose Sculpture in London, a quirky landmark that embodies creativity and invites playful interaction in the heart of the city.
Foyles
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Explore Foyles, London's legendary bookshop, where literature, coffee, and culture blend seamlessly in a vibrant atmosphere.
Phoenix Theatre
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Experience timeless West End theatre in the elegant, Italian-inspired Phoenix Theatre on Charing Cross Road, home to iconic productions since 1930.
12 Bar Club
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Historic London music venue famed for intimate gigs, antifolk festivals, and a vibrant independent spirit on legendary Denmark Street.
Dominion Theatre
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Step into the spotlight at Dominion Theatre, London’s grand West End venue hosting blockbuster musicals like The Devil Wears Prada in a stunning art deco setting.
Ronnie Scott's
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Experience world-class live jazz nightly at Ronnie Scott’s, London’s legendary Soho club since 1959, where music history and vibrant atmosphere meet.
Phoenix Arts Club
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West End's best-kept secret: intimate cabaret, burlesque, and theatre in a deliberately seductive speakeasy.
Essential places to dine
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.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
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A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Quo Vadis
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An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
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.
Inamo
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Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
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.
Gauthier Soho
0.3 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Blanchette
0.3 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
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.
Social Eating House
0.4 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.4 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit 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.
The Ninth
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Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
Blacklock Soho
0.4 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Bantof
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Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Radha's Boutique
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A small, curated Soho boutique offering tactile womenswear and accessories with friendly, personalised service in the heart of central London.
Oxford Street Gift Shop
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A lively and colorful gift shop on Oxford Street offering quintessential London souvenirs with a vibrant atmosphere and a hint of retail adventure.
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.
Primark
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Discover unbeatable fashion and homeware bargains across multiple floors at Primark Oxford Street, London’s premier budget shopping destination.
Souvenir Shop
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Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
Pop Up 38
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A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
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.
Glassworks London - Soho
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Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
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.
Machine-A
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Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
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Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
House of secrets
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Step into House of Secrets on Oxford Street and discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles and enchanting souvenirs in the heart of London.
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.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
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Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Good
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Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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 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.
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.
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.
The Black Horse - Pub & Cocktail Bar
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Experience the perfect blend of traditional pub charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife.
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 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.
Basement Sate
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Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish 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.
The Coral Room
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Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
NQ64 Soho
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Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Punch Room
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An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
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Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
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.
101 Nightclub London
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Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Bordello London
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Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
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.
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.
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.
Sunset night club
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Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
