19 Best Things to Do in Soho, London (According to Locals)
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Curious about the best things to do in Soho, London? From iconic theatres to quirky dessert spots, this guide has everything you need to explore this lively neighbourhood.
Soho is known for its buzzing nightlife, iconic theatres, and some of the best restaurants in London. As West End theatre fans and London locals for over ten years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours soaking up everything this lively neighbourhood has to offer. From fantastic restaurants and quirky shops to cool cultural landmarks, Soho has become a regular part of our routine.
If you’re planning to visit, here are our 19 top picks to help you make the most of your time in London's Soho area!
Short on time?
Here are our top picks for visiting Soho:
Must-Visit: Make the most of your time in Soho with a visit to (1) Kingly Court, (2) Liberty London, (3) Carnaby Street, (4) the magical House of MinaLima, and (5) a West End show!
Soho Walking Tours: A guided walking tour is one of the best ways to experience Soho’s history and culture. The tours below either take place entirely in Soho or feature key stops in the neighbourhood. These are the ones we’d recommend for discovering Soho’s unique vibe:
Where to Stay in Soho: Staying in Soho puts you within walking distance of top attractions. Our favourite hotels here are The Resident Soho and W London.
However, Soho is very expensive and can also be noisy at night, so if you prefer a quieter place, check out our guide on where to stay in London for better alternatives.
Where is Soho?
Soho is a lively area located right in the heart of London. It forms part of the city’s world-famous Theatreland, also known as the West End. It’s bordered by Oxford Street, Regent Street, Leicester Square, and Charing Cross Road (it’s basically surrounded by some of London’s most iconic spots).
With its historic streets, trendy shops, quirky cafes, legendary entertainment venues, and proximity to top theatres, Soho has this fantastic mix of old-school charm and modern cool. It’s also the centre of the LGBTQ+ community in London.
The neighbourhood is a great place to visit due to its central location. It’s just a short walk from popular areas like Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.
19 Best Activities to Do in Soho
1. Take a Stroll Down Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street is one of Soho’s most famous shopping spots, with a mix of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and bigger brands. It’s a fantastic place to visit, especially during London's festive season when the Christmas decorations make the whole street come alive.
The street is always colourfully decorated (no matter the season) and is particularly beautiful in the evenings. With plenty of pubs and restaurants around, the whole area is buzzing!
Did you know? During the Swinging Sixties, Carnaby Street was at the centre of London’s fashion scene, attracting trendsetters and music icons alike. The Rolling Stones and David Bowie were just some of the legends who contributed to the history of the iconic Carnaby Street.
While the street is a bit touristy these days, you can still find some unique shops alongside more mainstream ones. It’s a great spot for browsing or just soaking up the energy of Soho.
2. Visit Liberty London
Liberty London is an excellent spot for anyone who likes unique department stores with character. Its stunning Tudor-style exterior was built using timber from two 19th-century ships.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of luxury fabrics, designer homeware, and high-end fashion (and they have great London souvenirs!).
We couldn’t help but feel like we were in a Harry Potter film when we saw the building’s beautiful woodwork and historic charm for the first time.
3. Explore Kingly Court
Kingly Court in Soho is a foodie spot spread across three floors. It offers a mix of restaurants and bars, all centred around an open-air courtyard.
It’s a fantastic place to grab food or drinks, especially if you enjoy a variety of cuisines. From quirky cocktails and Mexican street food to authentic Neapolitan pizzas, there’s plenty to try here.
Did you know? Kingly Court was once a garment manufacturing hub in the 1960s. This makes it a piece of London’s rich history and a foodie destination.
We love coming here in the evening when the atmosphere really comes alive, especially with the fairy lights creating a cosy vibe.
Oh, and make sure to check out the upper floors; some of the best spots are easy to miss if you only stick to the ground level!
Our top tip: If you plan to visit in the evening, book a table in advance (which you can do here). Kingly Court is a popular spot, and tables fill up fast!
4. Browse Soho’s Independent Record Stores
Soho is the perfect spot to hunt for vinyl if you love music. Some of London's best independent record shops are here, including Sister Ray, Reckless Records (our favourite!), and Phonica Records.
Whether you're a dedicated collector or just curious, flipping through the racks is always a fun experience. The shops cater to all kinds of genres, so you’re bound to find something that catches your eye.
Even if you don’t buy anything, the atmosphere alone is worth the visit. The staff are super passionate about music, and you might even pick up some great recommendations while you’re there.
5. Lose Yourself in Foyles Bookstore
With five floors packed full of books, Foyles is a dream destination for book lovers. Whether you're searching for a good book to curl up with, a bestseller, or a rare find, the selection here truly stands out.
It’s one of the best bookshops in London and far better than most of the ones we’ve visited.
There’s even a cosy café upstairs, perfect for grabbing a coffee while flipping through your latest read or catching up on some work.
Did you know? Foyles’ flagship store has over 9 kilometres (6 miles) of bookshelves! It’s an incredible amount of space dedicated entirely to literature.
6. Discover the House of MinaLima
Harry Potter fans, this one’s for you! The House of MinaLima is a quirky gallery in Soho that showcases graphic art from the Harry Potter films. You’ll find posters, book covers, and other magical creations that bring the wizarding world to life here.
The House of MinaLima was founded by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima. They designed the graphics for all eight Harry Potter films, from the Daily Prophet newspapers to the Marauder’s Map.
We've walked past their shop countless times and only discovered it a few months ago. Though it's small, it's packed with details (every corner of the shop and exhibition space is worth admiring). We're confident you'll feel like you've stumbled upon something truly special when you see it.
If you love stumbling across places like this, you’ll probably enjoy some of the other offbeat things to do in London too.
7. Check Out the Broad Street Pump
History lovers, you’ll want to stop by the Broad Street Pump in Soho. This unassuming spot in the heart of the city is tied to one of the biggest breakthroughs in public health, thanks to Dr John Snow's investigation into the cholera outbreak of the 1850s.
While it’s just a pump with a plaque now, its significance is massive. Check out this 2-minute video that provides more info about John Snow and the Broad Street Pump:
It’s cool to stand where such a significant moment in history happened. You might walk right by without noticing (like we did at least 100 times), but once you know the story, the place feels anything but ordinary.
Did you know? Dr John Snow was one of the first to link contaminated water to the spread of cholera, a revolutionary idea at the time. His work here helped save countless lives and laid the foundation for public health systems globally.
Our top tip: After checking out the pump, head to the John Snow pub right next to the pump (you can see it on the picture above). Named after the doctor himself, it’s a proper old-school London pub with a cosy atmosphere.
8. Treat Yourself at Chin Chin Ice Cream
Got a sweet tooth? Chin Chin Ice Cream is the place to go for quirky desserts that are as delicious as they are unique.
Known for their liquid nitrogen ice cream and gooey hot chocolate, this spot is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. You can choose from options like banana miso, matcha tiramisu, and even pantyhose Thai tea – check out their current menu here.
We brought several friends here from overseas when they were visiting London. It’s always a hit, and the desserts never fail to impress. That said, the queues can get a bit wild during peak times, so we recommend going early or being prepared to wait.
Did you know? Chin Chin Ice Cream claims to be Europe’s first liquid nitrogen ice cream parlour, so it's a must-visit for dessert enthusiasts looking for something different.
9. Listen to Jazz Music in Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club has been a cornerstone of London’s music scene since 1959, and it’s easy to see why. This legendary venue is small and intimate, making it the perfect spot to enjoy live jazz performances up close.
If you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply enjoy incredible live performances, this is an experience you won’t forget.
We’ve been lucky to visit a couple of times, and every show has been incredible. The late-night jam sessions are our personal favourite. The vibe is buzzing, and the musicians are going all out.
Drinks and food here can be pricey, but that’s pretty standard for such a renowned venue. Still, the quality of the live music makes it all worth it.
Our top tip: Book well in advance (which you can do on their official website)! The place fills up fast, especially for big acts. For a more affordable experience, check out the Late Late Show. Tickets are cheaper, and you’ll still enjoy incredible musicians in a more relaxed setting!
10. Enjoy Cocktails in Cahoots
Transport yourself to the 1940s at Cahoots, a quirky bar set in a disused underground station. The bar is inspired by the Blitz era, and the underground station setting is a nod to Londoners who used the Tube as a shelter during World War II.
Cahoots has got vintage decor, creative cocktails, and even live music to set the mood. You really feel like you’re in a different era when you visit.
We’ve been here three times so far and had fun nights out. The cocktails are inventive and beautifully presented (though be prepared – they’re not cheap!). Despite the prices, it’s worth it for such a unique experience.
If you want a proper speakeasy experience, head to The Blind Pig (hidden above Social Eating House) instead, or try Opium for secret cocktail menus in a Chinatown townhouse. And if you can’t get enough cocktail bars, try out Swift or Bar Termini!
11. Watch a West End Show
A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a West End show!
Soho is part of London's Theatreland (West End), which stretches over Soho and Covent Garden and includes around 40 theatres. You’ll find everything from classic plays to world-famous musicals.
The Soho area itself is home to many historic theatres, which are totally worth visiting for their architecture alone. These include the Lyric Theatre (opened in 1888), the Palace Theatre (1891), the Sondheim Theatre (1907), the Piccadilly Theatre (1928), and the Prince Edward Theatre (1930).
We absolutely love musicals and have seen over 100 shows over the years. If you're unsure what to watch or need advice on grabbing tickets, check out some of our recommended shows and where to score tickets easily.
12. Catch a Comedy Show at Soho Theatre
Soho Theatre on Dean Street in the heart of Soho is one of London’s top spots for catching comedy shows, cabarets, and unique plays. It’s modern, intimate, and has a great variety of performances, making it a brilliant choice for an evening full of laughter.
We’ve visited a few times and seen some great up-and-coming comedians here. The atmosphere is relaxed, the crowd is always up for a good laugh, and the intimate setting means you’re never far from the action.
Our top tip: Check Soho Theatre's website for last-minute tickets, as these are often available at a discount.
13. Wander Through Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the most colourful areas in London. The streets are strung with bright red lanterns and packed with restaurants serving authentic East Asian cuisine.
Close to 100 eateries line the area, offering everything from hand-pulled noodles to dim sum. You’ll also find bubble tea shops on nearly every corner (yummy!).
We really like how lively this area feels, but it can get very busy, especially on weekends. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting during the weekday mornings or early afternoons when it’s less crowded.
Did you know? Chinatown’s history dates back to the 1950s when Chinese immigrants settled in the area and started opening restaurants and shops. Today, it’s one of the largest Chinese communities in Europe.
Our top tip: Stop by one of the bakeries for a fresh egg tart or mooncake. They make for a delicious snack while exploring!
14. Search for the London Noses
If you like scavenger hunts, this quirky art project might be another great thing for you to do in Soho.
The London Noses (also called the Seven Noses of Soho) are small sculpted noses hidden across the neighbourhood and surrounding areas. It’s a fun challenge to spot them all.
The project was created by artist Rick Buckley in 1997 as a playful protest against the rise of CCTV cameras in London. He installed the noses ‘under the noses of the cameras’.
Initially, there were 35 noses attached to London buildings, but only seven are still there.
We’ve walked through London countless times and wondered why some buildings have noses on their walls. Eventually, we googled what they meant and learned about this art installation.
Even if you don’t find all seven, it’s a fun way to explore the area with fresh eyes and discover the little details you might usually miss.
Our top tip: Start your hunt at Bateman Street or Dean Street (outside Quo Vadis), where two noses are hidden in plain sight. The full list of locations includes Admiralty Arch, Bateman Street, Dean Street, Meard Street, Endell Street, Great Windmill Street and D’Arblay Street.
15. See the Giant Neon Billboard at Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is undoubtedly one of the most iconic spots in London. Famous for its bright neon signs and the iconic Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, this lively intersection is always buzzing with energy.
You probably won’t need more than five minutes here, but take a moment to snap some photos of the famous intersection.
Did you know? Piccadilly Circus has been a hub of activity since 1819, and the neon signs are so iconic that they’ve been featured in countless films and TV shows, making it a familiar sight for people around the world.
Our top tip: It can get quite chaotic, especially on weekends and evenings (locals tend to avoid this area during these times). Instead, visit at night to enjoy the lights at their best.
16. Dine at One of London's Most Instagrammable Cafés
London has many Instagrammable cafés, and there's one in Soho that's famous for its stunning pink decor: EL&N. The brand has been named one of the most photographed cafes on Instagram worldwide.
EL&N Wardour Street in Soho is the kind of place where you’ll want to snap a few photos before settling in to enjoy your coffee. Known for its sweet treats and trendy aesthetic, it’s a must-visit if you’re exploring Soho and need a quick pick-me-up.
Did you know? EL&N stands for Eat, Live & Nourish, which highlights their mission to create a café experience that feels indulgent and energising. There are now several branches across London, but the Wardour Street location remains one of the most popular.
17. Experience Soho’s LGBTQ+ Nightlife
Old Compton Street is the beating heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene. It's packed with some of the city’s most iconic gay bars.
Grab a drink at The Admiral Duncan Pub (the perfect place to start your evening), enjoy the atmosphere at Comptons, or check out the energy at G-A-Y Bar for a fun night out. For a more relaxed setting, The Yard is an excellent choice with its outdoor courtyard and stylish Manhattan loft-inspired interiors.
18. Relax in Soho Square Gardens
Need a quick rest after exploring the busy streets of Soho? Soho Square Gardens in Central London is a small park in Soho where you can pause and recharge.
Its colourful flower beds and iconic Tudor-style hut make it a great spot to sit back and watch the world go by.
We must admit, it's not one of London's most picturesque parks (we much prefer Hyde Park and St James’s Park), but it's one of the rare places where you can find a seat to rest your feet after exploring.
And it's one of Soho’s best places for people-watching and soaking up the local vibe.
For another peaceful spot in Soho, check out Golden Square.
19. Shop on Regent Street or Oxford Street
If you love shopping, Regent Street and Oxford Street are waiting for you.
These iconic shopping streets are at the border of Soho and are packed with everything from high street favourites and flagship stores to top luxury brands. Whether you’re hunting for a new outfit or picking out London souvenirs, you’ll find plenty to choose from.
We find Regent Street incredibly stunning because it's such a pretty street. And if you visit around Christmas, the festive lights on Oxford Street are an absolute must-see.
Did you know? Regent Street was the first shopping street in the world to feature electric lighting in the 1800s.
Interactive Map: Soho’s 19 Must-See Spots
To elevate your visit, we’ve created an interactive map featuring all the above top spots:
How to use this map: Click the icon in the top left to see the full list of locations. For a bigger view, open it in a new tab via the top-right icon. You can also save it to your own Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
Where to Go Next After Soho
Soho’s energy can be a bit addictive: fast-paced, slightly chaotic, but always interesting. If this guide helped you get a feel for the area, the rest of London has just as much character waiting to be explored.
Not sure where to head next? Our London highlights guide pulls together the city’s essential experiences, including the ones you can absolutely skip. If you're craving something beyond the obvious, our favourite non-touristy things to do in the capital will help you add a few surprises to your itinerary.
And for choosing the right base, our tips on where to stay in London for sightseeing break down the best areas and hotels based on what you want to be close to (spoiler: Soho didn’t make the list!).
We hope this helped you get to know Soho a little better and made planning your time in London a touch easier.
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