Prince Charles Cinema: London's Cult Movie Haven in Leicester Place
Discover London’s iconic Prince Charles Cinema, a beloved independent repertory venue famed for cult classics, sing-alongs, and a passionate film community.
Nestled just north of Leicester Square, the Prince Charles Cinema is a renowned independent repertory cinema in London. Established in 1962 as a theatre, it transformed into a cinema known for its eclectic programming of cult classics, arthouse films, and special events. With two screens and a loyal fanbase, it offers affordable tickets and a unique cinematic atmosphere cherished by cinephiles and casual viewers alike.
A brief summary to Prince Charles Cinema
- 7 Leicester Pl, London, WC2H 7BY, GB
- +442074943654
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Purchase membership for discounted tickets and bar prices, enhancing your cinema experience and supporting the venue.
- Attend one of the famous sing-along events like The Sound of Music or The Rocky Horror Picture Show for a lively, interactive experience.
- Arrive early for popular screenings or marathons to secure good seats, especially in the smaller upstairs auditorium.
- Be prepared for a unique seating layout with a steeply raked floor; front and rear seats may have different sightline experiences.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station, served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. From the station, it is a 5-minute walk to 7 Leicester Place. Tube tickets range from £2.50 to £6 depending on zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Leicester Square, including routes 14, 19, 24, and 29. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and a single fare costs around £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at the cinema’s doorstep. Travel time varies from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £8 and £20 from central London locations.
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Walking
If you are staying in central London, walking to the cinema is a pleasant option. From Trafalgar Square, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes over mostly flat terrain, passing through vibrant streets full of shops and eateries.
Prince Charles Cinema location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Prince Charles Cinema
A Storied Beginning and Architectural Uniqueness
The Prince Charles Cinema originally opened as the Prince Charles Theatre in 1962, designed by Carl Fisher and Associates. It was the first new theatre built in London since 1931, featuring a distinctive curved floor in the stalls that angled audience members upwards toward the stage. Initially hosting live performances, the theatre struggled commercially and underwent several reinventions, including a brief period as Fielding's Music Hall. In 1969, after renovations by Carlo S. Biskupek and Harold Bartram, it reopened as a cinema, removing the stage and expanding seating to accommodate over 600 patrons. The building’s mosaic sculptures and fibrous plasterwork reflect its theatrical heritage, blending historic charm with cinematic function.Eclectic Programming and Cult Status
Since becoming a cinema, the Prince Charles has cultivated a reputation for bold and diverse film selections. It screens over forty films weekly across two screens, ranging from cult and arthouse classics to recent Hollywood releases. The cinema is famed for its sing-along events, notably for "The Sound of Music," "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," and the cult phenomenon "The Room," which includes interactive audience participation. This programming ethos has earned it a dedicated global following and recognition as the only independent cinema in Westminster, celebrated for its community spirit and cinematic passion.Community and Cultural Significance
The cinema's importance extends beyond film screenings; it serves as a cultural hub for London's cinephiles and filmmakers. It has been designated an Asset of Community Value by Westminster City Council, acknowledging its role in the local cultural landscape. The cinema has hosted premieres of landmark films such as "Hellraiser" and has been a nurturing ground for emerging filmmakers. Its unique atmosphere—part vintage charm, part rebellious spirit—has made it a beloved institution, with patrons often describing it as a cinematic mecca.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The Prince Charles Cinema offers a distinctive movie-going experience characterized by its intimate auditoriums—300 velvet seats downstairs and 104 leather seats upstairs—and a lively, engaged audience. The venue embraces a relaxed, fun-filled ambience where film lovers can enjoy affordable tickets, themed marathons, and interactive screenings. Despite some challenges with sightlines due to the auditorium’s design, the cinema’s charm lies in its community vibe, eclectic programming, and the staff’s evident love of film.Challenges and Preservation Efforts
In recent years, the cinema has faced threats from rising rents and redevelopment pressures. A break clause in its lease posed the risk of closure, sparking a public campaign to "Save The PCC." The cinema’s designation as an Asset of Community Value offers some protection, allowing the community a chance to bid if the property is sold. This struggle highlights the broader challenges independent cinemas face in London’s competitive and costly real estate environment, underscoring the Prince Charles Cinema’s role as a vital cultural institution worth preserving.Legacy and Ongoing Influence
The Prince Charles Cinema continues to thrive as a beacon for film enthusiasts seeking an alternative to mainstream multiplexes. It has influenced London’s cinematic culture by championing independent and cult films and fostering a sense of belonging among its patrons. The venue’s legacy is marked by its resilience, innovative programming, and commitment to keeping cinema accessible and vibrant in the heart of London’s West End.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mary Poppins Statue
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Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
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.
Shaftesbury Ave
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Discover London’s vibrant Shaftesbury Avenue, the epicenter of the West End's theatre scene, offering a myriad of shows, dining, and nightlife options.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Piccadilly Circus
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Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
225 Piccadilly Circus
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At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
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.
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.
Mercer Walk
0.3 km
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.
Seven Dials
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A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.4 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.4 km
London's grand civic heart: Nelson's victory immortalised in stone, surrounded by world-class art and democratic tradition.
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.
Chinatown
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Discover the vibrant flavors, rich culture, and iconic sights of London’s bustling Chinatown in the heart of the West End.
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.
Leicester Square
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Discover Leicester Square, London's vibrant entertainment hub, rich with theaters, dining, and lively street performances, perfect for tourists seeking excitement.
Harry Potter Statue
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Harry Potter Statue in Leicester Square, capturing the magic of Quidditch and London’s cinematic legacy.
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.
Mr Bean Statue
0.1 km
Sit beside cinema's most beloved bumbler in Leicester Square's iconic film tribute.
The Hippodrome Casino London
0.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Hippodrome Casino: historic grandeur meets 24/7 gaming, fine dining, and world-class live entertainment in Leicester Square.
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.
M&M'S London
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Discover the colorful world of M&M'S in London, where every visit is a sweet adventure filled with chocolate delights and interactive fun.
ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
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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
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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.
Swiss Glockenspiel
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Experience the charm of the Swiss Glockenspiel in London, where art and tradition meet in a captivating clock tower performance.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
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Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in London’s Leicester Square, where creativity, iconic models, and exclusive experiences await every fan.
Curzon Soho
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Discover independent cinema culture in the heart of Soho with stylish screenings, cozy cafés, and a vibrant social scene at Curzon Soho.
Essential places to dine
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.
Evelyn's Table
0.2 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Gauthier Soho
0.2 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.2 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.
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.
Quo Vadis
0.3 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Kricket Soho
0.4 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
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.
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.
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.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.4 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
St Martin's Courtyard
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Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
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.
Foyles
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London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
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.
Lillywhites
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London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
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.
Floral Street
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Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
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.
Sounds of the Universe
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Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
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.
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.
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.
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)
Bar Soho
0.2 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 Admiral Duncan - Soho
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Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
The Spice Of Life
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Historic Soho pub and live music venue blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and boutique hotel comforts.
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.
Duke Of Wellington
0.2 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.2 km
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.
Village Soho
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A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
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.
Swift Soho
0.3 km
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
The Penthouse London
0.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.2 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 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
0.2 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
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
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 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.
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.
Club49Soho
0.3 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
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.
La Capannina Club
0.3 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
0.4 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
0.4 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.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
