Walking through Soho, I feel the buzz of London’s coolest area. This part of the West End is full of history, culture, and modern vibes. It has legendary music spots and cutting-edge galleries, making it a must-see for everyone.
Soho is packed with things to do, despite its small size. It’s perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, or those who love to party. You’ll find everything from traditional pubs to trendy cocktail bars, and from top theatres to unique shops.
Exploring Soho, I see why it’s key to London’s creative scene. The area is full of street art, with the Spirit of Soho Mural being a highlight. Places like Berwick Street Market, open since 1778, show Soho’s long history and lasting charm.
Key Takeaways
- Soho is a compact yet vibrant area in central London
- The neighbourhood offers a diverse range of attractions and activities
- Iconic venues like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club have been Soho fixtures for decades
- Soho’s street art scene adds colour and character to the area
- The mix of traditional and modern elements creates a unique atmosphere
- Soho is an ideal base for exploring other parts of London
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A Brief History of Soho’s Eclectic Character
I’ve always been drawn to Soho’s rich history. This lively area in London has changed a lot since it was a royal hunting ground in the 16th century. The name ‘Soho’ comes from an old hunting call from those days.
In 1685, French Huguenots arrived and changed Soho forever. They started Soho’s mix of cultures. Later, in the 18th and 19th centuries, Italian and Greek immigrants added to the area’s cultural mix.
The influence of immigrants on Soho is clear. You can see it in the food, from Middle Eastern places to Michelin-starred spots like Yauatcha. This mix of cultures has made Soho a top spot for food lovers.
The ‘Swinging Sixties’ brought a new vibe to Soho. It became a key place for music, fashion, and art. You can still feel this creative energy at places like Carnaby Street.
Soho is also at the heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene. Old Compton Street, with its gay and lesbian bars, shows Soho’s welcoming and diverse nature.
| Era | Key Development |
|---|---|
| 16th Century | Royal hunting ground |
| 1685 | Arrival of French Huguenots |
| 18th-19th Century | Italian and Greek immigration |
| 1960s | ‘Swinging Sixties’ cultural revolution |
| Present Day | Multicultural hub for food, entertainment, and LGBTQ+ community |
Navigating Soho: Getting Around London’s Coolest Neighbourhood
Soho is easy to explore because it’s small. You can walk its lovely streets. There are also many ways to get around.
Best Times to Visit Soho
The best time to visit Soho depends on what you want to do. In the mornings, it’s quiet and peaceful. Afternoons are busy with shoppers. Evenings are lively with restaurants and bars open.
If you love the nightlife, come from Thursday to Saturday. This is when Soho really comes alive.
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Transportation Options in Soho
London’s transport is great for getting to Soho. You can use the Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Piccadilly Circus tube stations. Buses like the 9, 13, 15, and 19 go through Soho too.
For a quick trip, try Boris Bikes. They’re at many stations in Soho.
| Transport Type | Options |
|---|---|
| Underground | Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly Circus |
| Bus Routes | 9, 13, 15, 19, 23, 24, 29, 38 |
| Cycling | Boris Bike docking stations |
Walking Tours in Soho
Soho walking tours are a great way to see the area. I’ve been on tours about Soho’s music history. They talk about The Beatles and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.
There are also tours about the food in Soho. These tours last 2-3 hours. They’re a great way to learn about Soho’s culture.
Whether you explore on your own or with a guide, Soho has lots of surprises. You’ll see the famous Eros statue at Piccadilly Circus and the lively Carnaby Street. There’s always something new to find in this unique London area.
Things to Do in Soho
Soho is full of exciting things to do, mixing shopping, culture, and fun. I’ve checked it out and can’t wait to tell you my top spots.
Explore Carnaby Street’s Vibrant Shopping Scene
Carnaby Street shopping is a must in Soho. It’s famous for its independent shops and fashion boutiques. I enjoy looking around the unique stores and feeling the trendy vibe.
Visit the Photographers’ Gallery
Art lovers should visit the Photographers’ Gallery. It’s the UK’s first gallery just for photography. I’ve seen amazing exhibitions here, featuring new and famous photographers.
Catch a Show at Soho Theatre
Soho Theatre is a top spot in Soho. It hosts a mix of comedy, cabaret, and more. I’ve laughed at stand-up shows and thought about plays here.
Experience Live Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
Don’t miss Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in Soho. This place has been around since 1959 and has hosted great jazz acts. The cosy setting and amazing music make for a night to remember.
| Attraction | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Carnaby Street | Shopping | Fashion enthusiasts |
| Photographers’ Gallery | Art | Photography lovers |
| Soho Theatre | Entertainment | Comedy and drama fans |
| Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club | Music | Jazz aficionados |
With these varied Soho attractions, you’ll definitely find something you like in this lively London area.
Soho’s Culinary Delights: Top Restaurant Picks
I’ve dived into the lively London food scene, and Soho’s spots always stand out. With 47 top places to eat, you’ll find something for every taste. From secret supper clubs to the latest dining trends, Soho is a food lover’s dream.
Daroco is a gem in Soho, offering a slice of Milan in London. It has a 120-seat dining area with eye-catching mirrors, vibrant colours, and unique tiles. Their highlight is the delicious pizza, cooked in a special ‘butterfly’ oven.
Kingly Court is perfect for food lovers. It has over 20 places to eat, changing with the seasons from an outdoor space to a warm indoor spot. It even has London’s first public water station, showing Soho’s green efforts.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Bocconcino | Upscale Italian | Wood-fired pizzas |
| Kapara | Tel Aviv-inspired | Middle Eastern small plates |
| Speedboat Bar | Thai | Spicy noodle soups |
| Nessa | British | All-day breakfast |
For those watching their wallets, Brasserie Zédel is a great choice with two courses for £16.95. Or, for a special treat, try Humble Chicken’s omakase menu for £115. Soho’s eateries offer something for every budget and taste, making it a food lover’s haven in London.
Nightlife in Soho: Bars, Pubs, and Clubs
Soho nightlife is full of vibrant experiences that I love to explore. From London cocktail bars to traditional British pubs, there’s something for everyone in this lively area.
Quirky Cocktail Bars in Soho
I’m always drawn to Soho’s unique cocktail scene. Bar Swift has a wide whiskey selection, and The Blind Pig is a hidden gem. For a global twist, Wacky Wombat beneath Daroco is a must-visit. These places show off London’s creative mixology.
Traditional British Pubs in Soho
For a chill vibe, Soho’s British pubs are perfect. The Devonshire, from 1793, is famous for its top-notch Guinness. The Admiral Duncan on Old Compton Street is another gem, being one of Soho’s oldest gay pubs.
Late-Night Dance Venues
As night goes on, Soho’s clubs light up. Freedom on Wardour Street is a hit, known for its drag nights. The Piano Works West End lets the crowd pick the tunes, making it a unique spot.
| Venue | Type | Reviews | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thirst Soho | Bar | 566 | Lively atmosphere |
| Bar Soho | Bar | 558 | Eclectic decor |
| Freedom | Club | 728 | Drag nights |
| The Piano Works West End | Music Venue | 1171 | Audience-chosen playlist |
Looking for craft cocktails, a historic pub, or dancing till dawn? Soho’s clubs and bars have it all. With so many different places, every night out in Soho is an adventure.
Shopping in Soho: From Boutiques to Vintage Finds
I love exploring Soho’s shopping scene. It’s full of trendy boutiques and vintage shops. Shopping here is an adventure, with lots of styles and prices to choose from.
Carnaby Street is the heart of Soho’s fashion. It has independent shops and big brands like Diesel and Hugo Boss. Its history from the 1960s adds to its charm.
For luxury, Liberty London is the place to go. This iconic building offers high-end fashion and beauty products. It’s perfect for those who want the best.
Vintage lovers will enjoy Soho’s second-hand shops. Beyond Retro on Great Marlborough Street has great vintage outfits. Goldsmith Vintage on Charing Cross Road has a wide range of items from different times.
Berwick Street Market is great for a unique shopping trip. It’s been around since 1778 and has fresh produce and street food. You’ll also find vinyl shops and tailors there.
| Vintage Shop | Location | Speciality |
|---|---|---|
| Beyond Retro | 58-59 Great Marlborough Street | Americana vintage outfits |
| Goldsmith Vintage | 121-123 Charing Cross Road | Furs and sunglasses from various eras |
| Oh So Vintage | 85 Berwick St, Soho | Carefully selected retro pieces |
| Reign Vintage | 12 Berwick St, Soho | Well-organized vintage clothing |
Soho’s shops show off the area’s unique character. You can find everything from high-street fashion to rare vintage items. It’s a paradise for shoppers, always full of new inspiration.
Soho’s Cultural Attractions: Museums and Galleries
Soho’s cultural scene is vibrant and full of art and history. I’ve seen many London art galleries, but Soho stands out. It’s filled with unique museums and attractions that show its heritage and creativity.
The House of MinaLima
The House of MinaLima is a dream for Harry Potter fans. It’s a gallery filled with the graphic art from the films. If you love the details that make fantasy worlds come alive, this is a must-see.
Soho’s Street Art Scene
Walking through Soho is like being in an outdoor gallery. The streets are covered in bright murals and thought-provoking art. These artworks show off Soho’s creative energy and are always changing.
Hidden Historical Gems
Soho has secrets for history buffs. Have you heard about the Seven Noses of Soho? From the original 35 noses in 1997, 10 are left, with 7 in Soho. It’s a fun treasure hunt I like to share.
| Cultural Attraction | Year Established | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Trident Studios | 1968 | Hosted The Beatles, David Bowie, Queen |
| Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club | 1959 | Featured Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis |
| The Toucan Pub | Unknown | Site of Jimi Hendrix’s first London gig |
Soho’s cultural spots offer a journey through time. Whether you love music, art, or history, Soho’s museums and galleries will leave you with lasting memories.
Where to Stay: Soho’s Best Accommodation Options
I’ve dived into London’s heart and found many Soho hotels for every budget and taste. Soho’s places to stay range from luxury to chic boutique hotels, offering something for everyone.
About half of the top hotels in Soho have five stars, and 40% are four-star spots. If you’re on a budget, The Z Hotel Soho is a great choice at £119 per night. For luxury, the W London offers a four-star experience at £346 per night.
Location is crucial in Soho, and these hotels are perfectly placed. You’re just 339 metres from Piccadilly Circus and 400 metres from Tottenham Court Road station. The Piccadilly London West End is a top choice, with an 8.1/10 rating from over 6,000 reviews.
Soho has something for everyone, from solo adventurers to business travellers. You can choose from The Nadler Soho’s charm or the London EDITION’s luxury. Soho’s boutique hotels make it easy to find your perfect stay.
Soho Insider: Your Top Questions Answered About London’s Trendiest Neighborhood
What are some must-visit attractions in Soho?
From my experience exploring Soho, some top attractions include Carnaby Street for shopping, the Photographers’ Gallery for art lovers, and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club for live music. I also love wandering the colourful streets to check out the vibrant street art scene. The eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and nightlife spots really captures Soho’s unique character.
Where can I find the best food in Soho?
As a foodie, I’m always excited by Soho’s culinary scene. Some of my favourite spots include Daroco for amazing pizza, Bocconcino for upscale Italian, and Speedboat Bar for spicy Thai dishes. For a variety of options, I recommend checking out Kingly Court – it has over 20 eateries in one place. There’s truly something for every taste and budget in Soho’s restaurant scene.
What’s the nightlife like in Soho?
Soho’s nightlife is incredibly vibrant and diverse. I love sipping creative cocktails at quirky bars like Bar Swift or The Blind Pig. For a more traditional experience, historic pubs like The Devonshire are great. When I’m in the mood for dancing, Freedom on Wardour Street is always a fun time. The energy in Soho after dark is electric – there’s always something going on.
How can I get around Soho easily?
I find Soho super walkable, but there are plenty of transport options too. The Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Piccadilly Circus tube stations are all nearby. Buses like the 9, 13, and 15 also run through the area. When I’m feeling active, I love using the Boris Bikes to zip around – there are several docking stations in Soho. Walking is still my favorite way to explore though – you never know what hidden gems you’ll stumble upon!
Are there any unique shopping experiences in Soho?
Absolutely! I’m a big fan of the eclectic shopping in Soho. Carnaby Street is a must-visit for fashion lovers, with a mix of independent boutiques and big brands. For high-end shopping, I love browsing Liberty London. Vintage enthusiasts should check out places like Beyond Retro or Reign Vintage. And don’t miss Berwick Street Market – it’s been around since 1778 and offers everything from fresh produce to vinyl records.
What cultural attractions can I find in Soho?
Soho is packed with cultural gems. As a Harry Potter fan, I adore The House of MinaLima for its magical graphic art displays. The street art scene is like an ever-changing outdoor gallery. For music history buffs, places like Trident Studios and Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club are iconic. And if you’re up for a quirky adventure, try hunting for the Seven Noses of Soho – it’s a fun way to explore the area’s hidden historical treasures.
Where should I stay when visiting Soho?
I’ve explored many accommodation options in Soho, and there’s truly something for every budget. For a luxurious stay, I recommend the W London. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, The Z Hotel Soho offers great value. For a boutique experience, The Nadler Soho is charming. No matter where you choose, you’ll be right in the heart of the action – most hotels are within walking distance of major attractions like Piccadilly Circus and Tottenham Court Road station.
