Carnaby Street: London’s Iconic Fashion and Cultural Hub
Explore Carnaby Street, London’s legendary pedestrianized shopping and dining district blending iconic fashion, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Carnaby Street in London’s West End is a vibrant pedestrianized shopping and dining destination renowned for its blend of historic charm and cutting-edge fashion. Home to over 150 brands, independent boutiques, concept stores, and more than 60 eateries, it offers a unique cultural experience entwined with rich musical and fashion heritage. Visitors enjoy exploring its colorful streets, iconic arch, and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for style, food, and entertainment lovers.
A brief summary to Carnaby St
- London, Carnaby, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as Carnaby Street and its surrounding areas involve extensive walking through pedestrian zones and cobbled streets.
- Visit Kingly Court for a diverse and lively dining experience with over 20 eateries offering global cuisines in a unique courtyard setting.
- Explore side alleys like Newburgh Quarter and Ganton Street to discover independent boutiques and hidden gems away from the main thoroughfare.
- Check for pop-up shops and seasonal events, especially during Christmas when the street is beautifully decorated with festive lights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the London Underground to Oxford Circus station, served by the Central, Bakerloo, and Victoria lines. From there, it’s a 5-10 minute walk to Carnaby Street. The station is well connected and accessible, with frequent trains running throughout the day. Ticket prices range from £2.40 to £6.00 depending on travel zones and ticket type.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Carnaby Street, including routes 12, 88, and 453. Buses run approximately every 10-15 minutes, with journey times varying based on traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London areas. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.75 per trip.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Soho or the West End, walking to Carnaby Street is a pleasant option. The area is pedestrian-friendly with flat terrain and cobbled streets. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point, offering an immersive experience of London’s vibrant cityscape.
Carnaby St location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Carnaby St
A Legacy of Fashion and Culture in Soho
Carnaby Street stands as one of London’s most celebrated streets, deeply rooted in the Swinging London era of the 1960s. Located in the heart of Soho, this pedestrianized area quickly became a symbol of youth culture, music, and fashion revolutions. Over the decades, it has evolved while maintaining its creative spirit, hosting punk bands like The Sex Pistols and The Jam in the 1970s and 80s. Today, it continues to be a vibrant cultural landmark where history and modern trends intersect, preserving original architecture alongside contemporary design.A Shopper’s Paradise with Diverse Offerings
The street and its surrounding district encompass over 150 shops spread across 14 streets, including the famous Carnaby Street itself and adjacent areas like Newburgh Quarter, Kingly Court, and Ganton Street. Here, visitors find a rich mix of global brands such as Levi’s, Barbour, Dr. Martens, and Fred Perry alongside independent boutiques like Lazy Oaf and The Ragged Priest. This eclectic retail environment caters to all tastes—from vintage-inspired fashion to avant-garde designer labels and niche lifestyle products. Regular pop-up shops and concept stores add an element of surprise and innovation to the shopping experience.A Culinary Destination in Kingly Court and Beyond
Carnaby Street is equally famed for its dynamic food scene. Kingly Court, a three-storey courtyard just off Carnaby, hosts over 20 eateries offering a global array of cuisines including British pubs with real ale, Caribbean flavors at The Rum Kitchen, Mediterranean dishes, and trendy cocktail bars like Cahoots. The area’s culinary diversity makes it a hotspot for food lovers seeking everything from casual bites to fine dining in a lively, open-air setting.Architectural Charm and Hidden Gems
While much of Carnaby has modernized, several original buildings remain, adding to the street’s unique atmosphere. Notable heritage sites can be glimpsed at 7-8 Kingly Street and 10-12 Ganton Street, where historic facades blend with contemporary retail. The pedestrianized nature of Carnaby Street creates a relaxed environment, inviting visitors to explore side alleys and courtyards where tucked-away boutiques and cozy cafes await discovery.Events, Nightlife, and Vibrant Atmosphere
Carnaby Street regularly hosts live music gigs, fashion events, and seasonal celebrations such as its famous Christmas lights display, which transforms the area into a festive spectacle. The nightlife scene complements the shopping and dining with cocktail bars, pubs, and venues offering everything from classic British charm to underground 1960s-style experiences. This combination of entertainment and culture makes Carnaby a lively and engaging destination day and night.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Situated just a short walk from Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations, Carnaby Street is easily accessible and welcomes a diverse audience including families, solo travelers, and fashion enthusiasts. The street’s pedestrianization enhances comfort and safety, encouraging leisurely strolls through its compact 200-meter length and surrounding quarters. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the extensive shopping and dining options without rush.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.2 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
3 Savile Row
0.3 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Burlington House
0.4 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
The Smallest Gallery in Soho
0.5 km
Discover unique contemporary art at The Smallest Gallery in Soho, London - an intimate space showcasing emerging talents and established artists.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.5 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
#O hello sunshine Public Art Sculpture
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant O Hello Sunshine sculpture in London, a historical landmark that embodies creativity and community spirit amidst the city's artistic landscape.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.5 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
Soho Square
0.5 km
Historic Georgian square where aristocrats, scientists, and artists shaped London's cultural legacy
Soho Square Gardens
0.5 km
Explore the calming beauty of Soho Square Gardens, a lush park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
St James's Piccadilly
0.5 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
Chinatown Gate
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
Café de Paris
0.6 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kingly Court
0.1 km
A vibrant three-level Soho courtyard serving global cuisines and stylish bars just off iconic Carnaby Street.
Spirit of Soho Mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mosaic celebrating Soho’s rich artistic heritage and community spirit at the corner of Carnaby and Broadwick Streets.
Kingly Ct
0.1 km
Discover Kingly Court, a colourful three-storey courtyard in Soho offering world-class dining, unique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere in London’s West End.
Starbucks Coffee
0.1 km
A vibrant Starbucks café in London’s iconic Carnaby district, blending global coffee culture with local urban energy.
Hamleys
0.1 km
Discover the magic of Hamleys, London's iconic toy store, where imagination comes to life with seven floors of endless fun and excitement.
Liberty
0.1 km
Discover Liberty London, a Tudor revival treasure in the heart of London, blending historic craftsmanship with iconic luxury fabrics and design.
Regent St.
0.1 km
Discover the timeless elegance and world-class shopping of Regent Street, London’s premier mile of style and culture in the heart of the West End.
British Tours
0.1 km
Discover the heart of London with British Tours, offering personalized experiences to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Liberty’s clock
0.1 km
Discover Liberty’s Clock, a charming emblem on London’s iconic Tudor revival department store blending historic craftsmanship with vibrant design heritage.
See Your City
0.2 km
Discover London's magic with See Your City: expertly guided tours and experiences that unveil the essence of England's vibrant capital.
Soho
0.2 km
Discover Soho, London's vibrant district known for nightlife, dining, unique shops, and rich cultural experiences, perfect for every traveler.
The London Palladium
0.2 km
Iconic West End theatre blending historic grandeur with world-class variety shows and legendary performances since 1910.
The Photographers' Gallery
0.2 km
London's premier gallery dedicated exclusively to photography, showcasing diverse exhibitions and celebrating 100 years of photographic innovation.
Golden Square
0.2 km
Golden Square: A serene historic garden square blending aristocratic legacy with Soho’s creative pulse in central London.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
0.2 km
Discover The Blind Pig at Mary's in London - a vibrant bar offering innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.1 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Social Eating House
0.2 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
NOPI
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.2 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
sketch
0.2 km
An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Little Social
0.2 km
Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
Blanchette
0.3 km
Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Mele e Pere
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
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.
Inamo
0.3 km
Experience futuristic Asian fusion dining with interactive tables and vibrant sharing plates in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
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.
Kricket Soho
0.4 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Sussex Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho bistro blending Sussex countryside flavors with London’s energy, featuring seasonal British dishes and curated wines.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Canvas Collection
0.1 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
Pop Up 38
0.2 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
Beyond Retro Soho
0.3 km
Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.3 km
Discover limited-edition London fashion at Glassworks Soho: quality designs, weekly drops, and timeless style on vibrant Berwick Street.
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.
House of secrets
0.3 km
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.
Cool Britannia Oxford Street
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories in the heart of London at Cool Britannia Oxford Street.
Machine-A
0.4 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
LONGCHAMP
0.4 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.4 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Souvenir Shop
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs in the heart of London’s iconic Oxford Street.
La Boutik
0.5 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.5 km
Step into London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.5 km
Britain’s first luxury chocolatier since 1875, nestled in Mayfair’s Royal Arcade – where tradition, truffles and royal patronage meet in every exquisite box.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cahoots London
0.1 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Disrepute - Soho
0.1 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Argyll Arms
0.3 km
Step into The Argyll Arms, a Victorian-era pub gem in Soho blending historic charm, real ales, and hearty British fare near Oxford Circus.
Basement Sate
0.3 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
NQ64 Soho
0.3 km
Dive into a neon-lit world of retro arcade games and themed cocktails in the heart of Soho’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Duke of Argyll
0.3 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
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.
Punch Room
0.4 km
An exclusive Fitzrovia cocktail bar where historic punch traditions meet innovative craft mixology in a cozy, club-like setting.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.5 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.5 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
The Black Book
0.5 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.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.5 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Simmons Bar | Soho
0.5 km
Soho's kitsch cocktail den with epic happy hours, retro karaoke vibes, and two floors of nostalgic nightlife fun.
Thirst Bar Soho
0.5 km
Compact Soho cocktail bar by day, pulsing DJ‑led club by night—cheap cocktails, leather booths and a lively basement scene.
Bar Soho
0.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sunset night club
0.2 km
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.
St Moritz Club
0.3 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Bordello London
0.3 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
0.3 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
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.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.4 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.
Sophisticats Soho
0.4 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
0.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Cuckoo Club
0.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Carwash Nightclub
0.5 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
La Capannina Club
0.5 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Luxe Club
0.6 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.6 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
