Leicester Square - Things to do in London

Things to do in Leicester Square
Located in the heart of London, Leicester Square is one of the busiest and most famous areas of the city. Popular with tourists, Leicester Square is a hive of activity morning, noon and night with plenty to keep people amused from world premieres held at the Odeon Leicester Square to the restaurants in Chinatown and the various London bars and pubs which surround the square. 

With the constant traffic of people coming and going, Leicester Square’s atmosphere is full of energy. Add into the mix the West End theatres playing a range of high energy musicals, the giant cinemas playing the latest big blockbusters and the various restaurants, cafes and clubs which are open late into the night and it is no wonder Leicester Square is one of London’s busiest areas. If the hustle and bustle isn’t for you then it’s still possible to grab a moment of tranquillity; head to St Martins in the Fields or the National Portrait Gallery where the crowds are more relaxed and the pace is generally a little bit slower.

Places to go in Leicester Square

Film
Odeon and Empire all have huge cinemas in the square. Cineworld Trocaderro isn't too faroff and neither is  the Cineworld Haymarket. For those looking for independent cinema and quirky film nights, see Prince Charles Cinema just off the square itself and Curzon Soho on Shaftesbury Avenue which isn't too far by foot.

Theatre
Leicester square is pretty much the heart of London’ s theatreland. Almost all the major West End Theatres are easy to get to from here. The closest ones being Arts Theatre, Garrick Theatre and Phoenix Theatre.

National Portrait Gallery
Tucked behind the National Gallery and facing St Martin in the Fields, the National Portrait Gallery was established in 1856 and provides a separate and rather pleasant space for some of our treasured portraits, including every monarch from Henry VII to the Queen.

Leicester Square Theatre
Opened in August 2008, the Leicester Square Theatre is a top West End entertainment venue that runs a healthy programme of comedy, cabaret, dance, music and theatre events, in direct contrast to the more thespian affair that dominates other nearby competitors.

The Salisbury
A bit run down inside it may be, but for an old fashioned London pub in central London, this one takes the biscuit. Known for a decent pint and the odd impromptu jazz jam, the food might be a bit on the dear side, but it’s still well worth a visit.

Popular events in Leicester Square

Event Categories

•   Comedy
  • As Seen on TV
  • Improv
  • Music
  • Poetry
  • Stand Up
•   Exhibitions
  • Painting
  • Photography
•   Live Music
  • Blues
  • Indie
  • Jazz
  • Open Mic
•   Other
  • Sports
•   Theatre
  • Comedy
  • Musicals
  • West End

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