The London Pavilion: Historic Music Hall Turned Modern Landmark
A historic West End landmark blending Victorian theatrical grandeur with modern urban culture in the heart of London’s Shaftesbury Avenue.
Located at 1 Shaftesbury Avenue in London, The London Pavilion is a historic building originally opened in 1885 as a lavish music hall. Over time, it evolved into a cinema and is now a vibrant part of the Trocadero Centre, housing shops, exhibitions, and a modern capsule hotel. Its rich theatrical heritage and prime location near Piccadilly Circus make it a notable cultural landmark in central London.
A brief summary to The London Pavillion
- 1 Shaftesbury Ave, London, W1J 0DA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore the nearby Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square for a full West End entertainment experience.
- Visit the capsule hotel inside for a unique overnight stay with a futuristic twist.
- Check out current exhibitions or events hosted within the Pavilion’s retail and gallery spaces.
- Admire the historic façade and consider the building’s role in the development of Shaftesbury Avenue.
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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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Bakerloo Line to Piccadilly Circus station, located directly beneath the Pavilion. The journey from central London stations typically takes 10-20 minutes. The station offers step-free access but can be busy during peak hours. Single fares cost approximately £2.50 with contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Shaftesbury Avenue and Piccadilly Circus, including routes 14, 19, and 38. Buses run frequently every 5-15 minutes throughout the day. A single fare is £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Buses are a convenient option but may be slower during heavy traffic.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Black cabs and ride-hailing services like Uber can drop you off directly at 1 Shaftesbury Avenue. Travel times vary from 15 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £25 within central London. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking may affect journey times.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in Soho, Leicester Square, or Covent Garden, walking to The London Pavilion is a pleasant option, taking 10-20 minutes over flat urban terrain. The area is pedestrian-friendly with plenty of sights along the way.
The London Pavillion 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 The London Pavillion
Origins as a Premier Music Hall
The London Pavilion was first established as a music hall in 1859 but was completely rebuilt in 1885 to coincide with the creation of Shaftesbury Avenue. Opening on November 30, 1885, it was London's first 'music hall deluxe,' featuring marble-topped tables and a grand auditorium. Designed by architects Worley & Saunders, it quickly became one of the most popular venues for variety entertainment in London, marking the beginning of a new era for theatrical performances in the West End.Transition to Cinema and Architectural Evolution
In 1934, the building underwent a significant transformation from a music hall to a cinema, redesigned by Frederick G. M. Chancellor of the Frank Matcham Company. The interior was gutted and rebuilt, retaining two balconies and accommodating over 1,200 patrons. It became the London premiere cinema for United Artists, showcasing films such as "The Private Life of Don Juan." This period marked the Pavilion’s shift from live variety shows to cinematic entertainment, reflecting broader changes in popular culture.Modern Usage and Cultural Significance
Today, The London Pavilion forms part of the Trocadero Centre and serves as a shopping arcade and exhibition space. It housed Ripley's Believe It or Not! from 2008 to 2017 and later hosted the Body Worlds exhibition. The upper floors have been converted into a capsule hotel operated by Zedwell, offering nearly 1,000 windowless sleeping pods, catering to modern urban travelers. Its location at the northeast corner of Piccadilly Circus places it at the heart of London's vibrant theatre and nightlife district.Architectural and Urban Context
The Pavilion’s construction was integral to the development of Shaftesbury Avenue and the surrounding Piccadilly Circus area, which was reshaped in the late 19th century. Its façade and structure contribute to the historic streetscape, blending Victorian grandeur with modern adaptations. The building’s evolution mirrors the changing entertainment landscape of London, from music halls to cinemas to contemporary mixed-use spaces.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
While the original lavish interiors no longer exist, the Pavilion retains its historic charm through its exterior and central location. Visitors experience a blend of heritage and modernity, with the bustling energy of the West End’s theatres, shops, and nightlife just steps away. The capsule hotel adds a unique, futuristic element, contrasting with the building’s Victorian roots.Legacy and Cultural Impact
The London Pavilion stands as a testament to London’s rich entertainment history, having hosted notable performers and premieres. Its adaptive reuse over the decades reflects the city’s dynamic cultural scene and commitment to preserving historic landmarks while meeting contemporary urban needs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.1 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.2 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Harry Potter Statue
0.2 km
Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
Mr Bean Statue
0.2 km
Explore the whimsical Mr. Bean Statue in Leicester Square, a must-see landmark that captures the charm and humor of British culture in the heart of London.
Golden Square
0.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Golden Square, a charming park in the heart of London, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and cultural experiences.
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.
St James's Piccadilly
0.3 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
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.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Soho
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London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
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.
Waterloo Pl
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Experience the historic elegance of Waterloo Place in London, where stunning architecture meets vibrant city life in a beautiful urban square.
3 Savile Row
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Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
Unmissable attractions to see
Picturehouse Central
0.0 km
Experience cinema in style at Picturehouse Central, a vibrant West End venue blending heritage charm with modern luxury and diverse film programming.
Lyric Theatre
0.1 km
London’s oldest surviving theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, blending historic charm with world-class musicals and drama in the heart of the West End.
Ham Yard Hotel
0.1 km
A vibrant boutique hotel in Soho blending eclectic design, luxury amenities, and central London convenience in a lively yet tranquil setting.
The Criterion Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of London’s underground Victorian gem, the Criterion Theatre at Piccadilly Circus.
The Blue Posts
0.1 km
A historic Soho pub blending classic charm with sleek modernity, offering lively drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of London’s West End.
Apollo Theatre
0.1 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic in the historic Apollo Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, a Renaissance-style gem with superb views and rich heritage.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant crossroads of London’s West End where iconic lights, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment converge.
Tootbus London
0.1 km
Explore London’s iconic sights sustainably with Tootbus’s electric hop-on hop-off buses, family-friendly tours, and scenic Thames cruises.
Piccadilly Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre offering immersive musicals and timeless Art Deco charm in the heart of London’s vibrant entertainment district.
Lillywhites
0.1 km
London's premier sporting goods store on Regent Street, offering top brands and expert gear for every athlete and sports enthusiast.
Prince of Wales Theatre
0.1 km
Historic Art Deco West End theatre in London’s Theatreland, famed for premier musicals and an intimate yet grand audience experience.
Gielgud Theatre
0.1 km
Experience world-class theatre in the intimate, historic Gielgud Theatre nestled in London’s vibrant West End.
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.
Tiger Tiger London
0.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Tiger Tiger London, a premier nightclub offering diverse entertainment and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.
The Book Of Mormon
0.1 km
Experience the irreverent, award-winning musical comedy The Book of Mormon at London’s Prince of Wales Theatre, where sharp satire meets catchy tunes.
Essential places to dine
Kricket Soho
0.1 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
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.
Bantof
0.1 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
0.1 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Mele e Pere
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Meet Fresh
0.3 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Gauthier Soho
0.3 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.3 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
0.3 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
NOPI
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
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.
Hoppers Soho
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and signature hoppers in a lively, intimate Soho setting bursting with authentic flavors and culture.
Quo Vadis
0.4 km
An iconic Soho dining destination blending refined modern British cuisine with elegant historical charm and a lively, convivial atmosphere.
Kingly Court
0.4 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
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.
Machine-A
0.2 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.2 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Cool Britania
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
La Boutik
0.3 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
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.
Jermyn St
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Discover Jermyn Street, London’s historic menswear enclave blending timeless craftsmanship with contemporary style and refined elegance.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
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London’s oldest cheesemonger, serving artisan cheese with royal heritage and timeless charm.
Princes Arcade
0.3 km
A refined covered arcade where London's bespoke traditions meet curated luxury shopping.
Unique Britain
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Floris London
0.4 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Prestat Chocolates
0.4 km
Royal warrant chocolatier crafting sophisticated truffles in Piccadilly's elegant Princes Arcade since 1902.
Sounds of the Universe
0.4 km
Discover a world of diverse vinyl and music culture at Soho’s iconic Sounds of the Universe record store.
Pop Up 38
0.4 km
A compact, curated boutique on Broadwick Street offering rotating seasonal pieces and design-led accessories in the heart of Soho.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Thin White Duke
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Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Duke of Argyll
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Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.3 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.3 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Mayfair famed for its political heritage and classic London charm, steps from Downing Street.
Ku Bar
0.3 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Bar Soho
0.4 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.
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 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 Black Book
0.4 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.
Cahoots London
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Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
The Coach & Horses, Soho
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Historic Soho pub famed for its legendary landlord, literary clientele, and London’s first vegetarian and vegan menu.
Basement Sate
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.4 km
Soho's oak-panelled cocktail sanctuary: precise classics, inventive signatures, and fireside intimacy amid Frith Street's electric vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.1 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
0.1 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sophisticats Soho
0.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.2 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 Penthouse London
0.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
The Box Soho
0.2 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Cuckoo Club
0.3 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.3 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Scotch of St James
0.4 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Sunset night club
0.4 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.
Club49Soho
0.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
St Moritz Club
0.4 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
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.
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.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.5 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
