The Wallace Collection: A Majestic London Mansion of Art and History
Discover timeless masterpieces and aristocratic elegance in the heart of London at the Wallace Collection, a free museum of art and history.
The Wallace Collection, housed in the elegant Hertford House in Manchester Square, London, is a free national museum showcasing an exquisite array of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries. Its remarkable holdings include Old Master paintings, French 18th-century furniture, porcelain, and a renowned arms and armour collection, all displayed within a historic London townhouse setting. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it offers visitors an immersive cultural experience in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to The Wallace Collection
- Hertford House, Manchester Square, London, W1U 3BN, GB
- +442075639500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Join the free daily guided tour at 2:30 pm for expert insights into the collection and Hertford House.
- Visit during February’s Open Furniture Month to see inside cabinets and drawers usually kept closed.
- Photography without flash is allowed, so bring your camera for memorable shots of the art and interiors.
- Enjoy a meal or afternoon tea in the museum’s elegant courtyard restaurant, open daily.
- Use the free visitor lockers on the Lower Ground Floor to store bags and personal items securely.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Bond Street station (Central and Jubilee lines) or Baker Street station (Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines). Both stations are approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the museum, with step-free access available. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on zones and time.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Manchester Square, including routes 6, 7, 13, 23, and 27. Bus travel times vary but typically take 15-30 minutes from central London areas. Pay with an Oyster card or contactless payment, with fares capped at £1.75 per journey.
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Taxi / Rideshare
Black cabs and rideshare services like Uber can drop you near Hertford House. Travel time from central London locations ranges from 10 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £25.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Wallace Collection is pleasant and accessible, with flat, paved routes suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point.
The Wallace Collection 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 Wallace Collection
A Historic Mansion Transformed into a Cultural Treasure
The Wallace Collection is located in Hertford House, a grand 18th-century London townhouse in Manchester Square. Originally built in 1776, the house was acquired by the Second Marquess of Hertford in 1797 and remained the family home for generations. The building’s elegant interiors, including rooms like the Dining Room, Billiard Room, and Smoking Room, offer visitors a glimpse into aristocratic life, with original wallpapers, fireplaces, and chandeliers enhancing the historic atmosphere. This setting provides a unique backdrop for the museum’s extensive art collection.Masterpieces of Painting and Decorative Arts
The collection is renowned for its exceptional Old Master paintings, featuring masterpieces by Rubens, Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Fragonard. Alongside these are exquisite displays of 18th-century French and English furniture, porcelain, and decorative arts, many pieces once owned by European royalty. The museum also houses a fascinating arms and armour gallery, showcasing military artefacts within the refined mansion environment. The combination of fine art and decorative objects creates a rich, immersive experience for visitors.Visitor Experience and Special Features
Visitors can explore the museum’s two floors at their own pace or join the daily free guided tour offered at 2:30 pm, which provides insightful commentary on the collection and building history. For those preferring a self-guided experience, an audio tour is available. The museum hosts special events such as the annual Open Furniture Month, where visitors can see inside cabinets and drawers rarely accessible. Photography is allowed without flash, and the museum’s courtyard restaurant offers French-style dining in a stunning glazed setting.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The Wallace Collection is fully accessible, with step-free entrances, lifts to all floors, and facilities designed for visitors with limited mobility. Free visitor lockers are available, and the museum provides seating areas and clear signage throughout. The museum operates a strict no-smoking and no-vaping policy and encourages respectful behaviour to protect the collection. Nearby public transport options and Blue Badge parking bays support easy access, although on-site parking is not available.Location and Practical Information
Situated just minutes from Oxford Street and Baker Street, the Wallace Collection is ideally placed in central London’s vibrant Mayfair district. It is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, with free admission to the permanent collection. Temporary exhibitions may require tickets. The museum closes only on 24, 25, and 26 December. Visitors can enjoy a quiet, contemplative atmosphere amid some of the UK’s most treasured artworks and historic interiors.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Bequeathed to the nation in 1897 by Lady Wallace, the collection remains intact under the condition that none of the pieces leave the museum, preserving its unique character. It stands as a testament to the vision of Sir Richard Wallace and the Marquesses of Hertford, offering an unparalleled window into European art and aristocratic heritage. The Wallace Collection continues to inspire and educate, bridging history, art, and culture in a singular London landmark.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
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Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
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A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Roosevelt Memorial
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A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
38 Grosvenor Sq
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Historic mid-19th-century Italianate residence in London’s prestigious Grosvenor Square, a symbol of aristocratic and diplomatic heritage.
Speakers' Corner
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Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
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.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
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A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
Savile Row
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Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Middlesex House
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Experience the blend of modern business and historical charm at Middlesex House in London, a vibrant hub for tourists and professionals alike.
Fitzroy Square
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Discover the serene beauty of Fitzroy Square, a historic garden square in London, where elegance meets tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy.
The Paddington Partnership
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Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
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.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
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Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
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.
Soho
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London's pulsating heart of nightlife, cuisine, and cultural reinvention where bohemian heritage meets contemporary glamour.
Unmissable attractions to see
Selfridges
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Discover Selfridges London, a historic Oxford Street icon blending luxury shopping, innovative experiences, and cultural heritage across six vibrant floors.
St Christopher's Place
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A charming pedestrianised enclave of boutique shops and global dining, tucked just off Oxford Street in central London.
Montagu Square
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A grand Georgian garden square in Marylebone, famous for its elegant architecture and as the former home of John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Jimi Hendrix.
Baker St
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Step into Victorian London at the world's first literary character museum, where Sherlock Holmes' iconic address comes alive.
Disney Store
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Step into a world of magic and adventure at London’s iconic Disney Store on Oxford Street, where beloved characters come to life across three enchanting floors.
Mercato Mayfair
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Discover a vibrant, sustainable food hall set within the historic St. Mark's Church, blending global flavors with Gothic grandeur in Mayfair.
Upper Wimpole St
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Discover Upper Wimpole Street, a historic Marylebone street blending medical heritage, iconic residents, and elegant Edwardian architecture in central London.
University of Westminster Marylebone Hall
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Modern student living in central London, opposite Madame Tussaud’s and close to Regent’s Park and the vibrant West End.
London Gifts
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A lively London-themed gift shop on Oxford Street offering quick souvenirs with a vibrant but sometimes challenging shopping experience.
The Dover Castle
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Discover The Dover Castle, a historic London mews pub famed for its cozy wood-paneled interiors and legendary rock heritage.
Grosvenor Sq
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Grosvenor Square: London's historic garden square blending aristocratic heritage, American diplomacy, and modern urban renewal in Mayfair.
Moco Museum London
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Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
Sherlock Holmes Statue
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Iconic bronze statue near Baker Street celebrating Sherlock Holmes, London’s legendary fictional detective and literary icon.
Madame Tussauds London
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Step into the world of fame and history with over 150 lifelike celebrity figures and immersive experiences at Madame Tussauds London.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
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Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Essential places to dine
Apricity Restaurant
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Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Portland
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Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Little Social
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Stylish Mayfair bistro offering refined modern British small plates with an intimate atmosphere and excellent wine selection.
sketch
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An iconic Mayfair venue blending avant-garde art, Michelin-starred dining, and whimsical design for an unforgettable London experience.
Starbucks Coffee
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A vibrant Starbucks café in Carnaby offering expertly crafted coffee, fresh food, and a lively urban atmosphere in central London.
Kingly Court
1.1 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
NOPI
1.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Social Eating House
1.2 km
Modern European dining in Soho with creative British flair, relaxed elegance, and an intimate chef’s counter experience.
Blanchette
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Cozy Soho French bistro serving modern small plates, charcuterie, and exquisite cheese and honey pairings in a Parisian-inspired setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
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Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Andrew Edmunds Restaurant
1.3 km
A romantic Soho townhouse serving refined Franco-Mediterranean dishes with an acclaimed wine list in an intimate, candlelit setting.
The Ninth
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Michelin-starred modern French cuisine with Mediterranean flair in Fitzrovia’s chic and relaxed dining hotspot.
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.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
1.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Mele e Pere
1.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Beatles Store
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A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
Beyond Retro Soho
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Dive into Soho's ultimate vintage vault: two floors of era-spanning fashion, weekly drops, and pop-up vibes for the preloved obsessed.
LONGCHAMP
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Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Hamleys
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Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Canvas Collection
1.1 km
Discover handmade ceramics, jewelry, and accessories in Carnaby's artistic gift haven—unique treasures from London's creative makers.
House of secrets
1.1 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.
Carnaby St
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London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
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.
Kingly Ct
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A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Goodge Place Market
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A vibrant street food market in the heart of Fitzrovia, offering diverse flavors and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from central London.
Charbonnel et Walker
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28 The Royal Arcade
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Berwick St
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Shepherd Market
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Reckless Records
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Purl London
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The Churchill Bar & Terrace
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The Argyll Arms
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Cahoots London
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The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Fitzrovia
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Disrepute - Soho
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Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
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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Basement Sate
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The Victoria, Paddington
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Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
Below
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Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
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.
The Nellie Dean
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A classic Soho pub blending traditional charm with lively local spirit and renowned for hearty pies and well-kept ales.
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.
The Thin White Duke
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Bordello London
1.2 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
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Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
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Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
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.
St Moritz Club
1.3 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Tabu London
1.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
1.3 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
The Box Soho
1.4 km
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
1.5 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
1.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
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.
The Scotch of St James
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Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Club49Soho
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Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
