14 Best Things to Do in in Soho, London: First-Timers Guide
From iconic theatres to hidden cocktail bars, here are the top things to do in Soho, London for foodies, shoppers, and night owls.
Soho is London boiled down: a few zigzagging streets where fashion rubs shoulders with theatre queues, neon meets old brick, and dinner plans multiply by the minute. It’s a great place to let the city introduce itself—compact, creative, and always a short walk from your next discovery.
By day, you’ll find boutique shopping and café chatter; by night, some of the best restaurants and live entertainment in the capital. The heart of Soho beats loud, bright, and late, and it’s absolutely worth visiting whether you’re here for a whirlwind weekend or a lingering, locals-only wander.
I was born and raised in London and lived there for about 25 years. For 4+ years, I worked in London Soho, and it was the place I shopped in, lunched in, went out for drinks in, and pretty much where I spent most of my life in my early and mid-20s. I could pretty much navigate its streets blindfolded.
This guide distils that muscle memory—where to eat, what to do, and how to slip into the rhythms that make Soho feel like a neighbourhood as much as a postcode. Read on for my curated guide to the best things to do in Soho, London.
If you’re planning a trip to London, don’t miss my 3 days in London Itinerary – the guide for first-timers in the city, and also my top things to Do in London as a Local, in case you want to get off the tourist trail.
Where is Soho, London?
Soho sits at the lively heart of London’s West End—a pocket-sized neighbourhood that punches far above its weight in personality. It’s roughly a square kilometre of cobbled lanes, neon-lit nightlife, and day-to-night dining that refuses to take a breather.
Historically a bohemian haunt, London’s Soho is now an eclectic blend of theatre-goers, media types, and curious travellers drawn to its energy.
While there’s no official border, as a Londoner I’d say that Soho is roughly framed by Oxford Street to the north, Shaftesbury Avenue to the south, Regent Street to the west, and Charing Cross Road to the east.
Within those bounds, you’ll find legendary streets like Carnaby Street (fashion history in 1960s technicolour), Old Compton Street (the beating heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene), and Dean Street, where centuries-old pubs rub shoulders with celebrity-chef restaurants.
A Little Background to Soho, London
I feel that every London neighbourhood has its story, and Soho’s is one of the most colorful.
Once open hunting grounds—its name likely from the old hunting cry “So-ho!”—the area took shape after the Great Fire of 1666 pushed development west. Waves of newcomers followed: French Huguenots spinning silk, Italians opening cafés, Jewish delis on street corners, and the beginnings of Chinatown just to the east.
By the 19th century, Soho had a grittier reputation—crowded housing, industry, and even a starring role in Dr. John Snow’s famous cholera map—but it remained a creative hub. William Blake was born here, jazz and record shops flourished mid-century, and Carnaby Street exploded during the Swinging Sixties.
The sex trade that once defined parts of Soho has largely faded, but the area’s rebellious streak never has. Today it’s a compact, chaotic mix of immigrant kitchens, theatre crowd haunts, media studios, and late-night bars—a neighbourhood that has mastered the art of constant reinvention.
14 Best Things to Do in Soho, London
1. Go Shopping on Carnaby Street
Few streets in London have as much swagger as Carnaby. Once the epicentre of Swinging London in the 1960s—think Beatles sightings, miniskirts, and psychedelic shopfronts—it’s still a magnet for style hunters.
Today, its pedestrian lanes mix big-name brands with quirky independents, heritage labels, and concept stores you won’t find anywhere else.
Between browsing, refuel at one of Kingly Court’s cafés or rooftop spots (more on that later), then dive back into the racks—because Carnaby isn’t just a shopping street, it’s a fashion pilgrimage.
2. See a West End Show
Catching a show in London’s West End is practically a rite of passage, and Soho sits right in the thick of it.
The neighbourhood’s southern edge is lined with some of the capital’s most famous stages, including the Prince Edward Theatre (currently home to big-name musicals), the Lyric Theatre, the Gielgud Theatre, the Soho Theatre, and the Apollo Theatre.
Whether you’re into long-running classics or buzzy new productions, you’ll find plenty of options just a short stroll from your dinner table. For an updated list of performances and to book ahead, check the Official London Theatre.
Seeing a show here easily earns its place among the best things to do in Soho, London—especially when you pair it with a late-night drink nearby.
3. Slip into Chinatown
While technically not in Soho, Chinatown is just a few steps east, and it would be a crime to skip it.
Marked by ornate red gates and a flurry of lanterns overhead, this pocket of London is a sensory hit—steaming dim sum baskets in restaurant windows, the scent of roast duck, and shopfronts stacked with exotic teas and lucky cats.
Come hungry, graze your way through bao buns, bubble tea, and sizzling noodles, then pick up a sweet red bean bun for the walk back into Soho.
4. Shop Soho’s Independent Record Stores
Soho has long been a haven for music lovers, and its independent record stores keep that legacy alive. Sister Ray on Berwick Street is a vinyl institution, stacked floor-to-ceiling with everything from rare pressings to the latest indie releases.
Just down the road, Reckless Records is a treasure trove for crate-diggers hunting second-hand gems. Even if, like me, you’re not a collector, browsing here is a trip through Soho’s soundtrack—one that shifts from punk to jazz to Britpop in the span of a few steps.
5. Have a Picnic in Soho Square Gardens
In the middle of Soho’s whirl of restaurants, theatres, and bars, Soho Square Gardens feels almost like a secret. This small, leafy park—complete with benches, flowerbeds, and a quirky Tudor-style hut—has been a local meeting spot since the 17th century.
Grab a takeaway sandwich or sushi from a nearby café, claim a patch of grass, and watch the neighbourhood go by – you’ll see all the locals doing the same on a warm, sunny day.
It’s one of the few places in central London where you can hit pause without leaving the action.
6. Visit Ham Yard
Tucked just off Piccadilly Circus, Ham Yard is a hidden pocket of Soho that feels like its own little village. At its centre is the stylish Ham Yard Hotel, surrounded by boutiques, a leafy courtyard, and even a private bowling alley for guests in the know.
Pop in for a cocktail at the buzzy bar, browse the concept store for beautifully curated homewares, or linger over afternoon tea in the sunlit restaurant. It’s a polished, design-forward side of Soho that still hums with the neighbourhood’s trademark energy.
7. Enjoy some Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s
If Soho has a heartbeat, it syncs to the cymbals at Ronnie Scott’s. Open since 1959, this legendary basement club blends pin-sharp acoustics with mood-lighting that flatters even a red-eye traveler.
Expect everything from modern greats to late-night jam sessions; the Late Late Show often steals the evening.
Book ahead (seats sell out fast), arrive early for hush-level views, and don’t skip the Upstairs at Ronnie’s bar for a looser, cocktail-forward prelude. Dress is anything but fussy, but the live music is serious—Soho at its smoothest.
8. Visit The Photographers’ Gallery
Just off Oxford Street, The Photographers’ Gallery is a must for anyone with an eye for visuals – I absolutely loved coming here after work and browsing the galleries.
Spread over six floors, it showcases everything from cutting-edge contemporary work to iconic historical images, with exhibitions that change regularly.
The space itself is sleek but unpretentious, and the bookshop is a rabbit hole for anyone who loves photography. Pop into the café afterward for one of the best flat whites in the neighbourhood—perfect fuel before diving back into Soho’s streets.
9. Shop at Liberty’s of London
An icon of British style since 1875, Liberty’s of London is as much a landmark as it is a department store.
Its striking Tudor-revival building on Great Marlborough Street is instantly recognisable, but step inside and you’ll find creaking wooden staircases, stained glass windows, and a treasure trove of high fashion, luxury beauty, and, of course, the brand’s famous floral fabrics.
Even if you’re not buying, it’s one of the big flagship stores in Soho worth a wander—Liberty is a masterclass in how shopping can feel like storytelling- easily one of the best things to do in Soho, London.
10. Go all in on Soho’s LGBTQ+ Nightlife
Soho has long been the heart of London’s LGBTQI+ scene, where rainbow flags fly proudly and the party rarely stops.
Old Compton Street is the epicentre, lined with legendary venues like G-A-Y Bar (very mainstream), the effortlessly chic Freedom, and the ever-popular The Yard (casual) with its fairy-lit courtyard.
Whether you’re after cocktails, drag shows, or dancing until dawn, experiencing this vibrant nightlife is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Soho, London.
11. Go Shopping in Oxford and Regent Street
Bordering Soho to the north and west, Oxford Street and Regent Street are London’s retail heavyweights. Oxford Street is a high-energy stretch of flagships—Selfridges, Nike, Zara—where you can tick off global brands in one sweep.
Regent Street, with its sweeping curves and grand architecture, takes a sleeker approach, home to names like Burberry, Anthropologie, and Liberty at its northern tip.
Together, they’re the perfect complement to Soho’s quirkier boutiques—proof that in this corner of London, you can shop both the high street and the high fashion without breaking your stride.
If you’re visiting London during Christmas, make sure to come out here to see the famous Christmas lights too.
12. Visit Kingly Court
Just off Carnaby Street, Kingly Court is a three-storey open-air courtyard that packs in some of Soho’s best eating and drinking under one roof—or rather, one retractable canopy.
From brunch spots and vegan cafés to late-night cocktail bars, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure for food lovers.
The buzzy atmosphere makes it just as fun for people-watching as it is for dining, and with cuisines spanning the globe, you can eat your way around the world without ever leaving the square.
13. Go for Cocktails
Soho is spoiled for choice when it comes to drinking spots—slick hotel bars, candlelit basements, and everything in between—but my favourites always pull me back.
Swift is perfect for a pre-dinner martini upstairs or a nightcap in its moody basement. Bar Lina nails the classic Negroni every time, while Below Stone Nest is all about low-lit, speakeasy vibes.
For skyline sips, head to Flute, the rooftop bar at Broadwick Soho (an absolute gem), or settle into Hovarda for Mediterranean glamour with a killer drinks list. And then there’s Nessa, effortlessly cool with cocktails that feel just as creative as the neighbourhood itself. In Soho, the only wrong choice is not having another round.
14. Shop at Berwick Street Market
Dating back to the 18th century, Berwick Street Market is one of London’s oldest markets and still hums with local character.
By day, it’s a go-to for groceries and a bit of street food—think steaming bao buns, fresh falafel, and sizzling stir-fries—mixed with stalls selling flowers, fabrics, and fresh produce.
Surrounded by record shops and independent cafés, it’s the kind of place where grabbing lunch can easily turn into an afternoon of browsing and people-watching.
Where to Stay in Soho
For a neighbourhood that rarely sleeps, Soho knows how to offer a good night’s rest—provided you choose wisely.
Here, hotels come with personality: boutique boltholes in Georgian townhouses, sleek hideaways tucked down cobbled lanes, and stays where the bar is just as much of an attraction as the bed.
Whether you want rock ’n’ roll glamour, quiet period charm, or something in between, Soho has a handful of brilliant accommodation options.
Broadwick Soho – A new kid on the block with old-school glamour, Broadwick Soho pairs Art Deco elegance with bold, playful design. Expect plush rooms, panoramic rooftop views, and a lobby that feels more like a fashion week after-party.
Dean Street Townhouse – Part of the Soho House family, this Georgian gem is all about understated luxury: roll-top baths, velvet armchairs, and a restaurant that draws locals as much as guests. Ideal for those who want to feel like they live here—just with better sheets.
The Soho Hotel – Firmdale Hotels’ flagship is a riot of colour and comfort, with Kit Kemp’s signature interiors and sprawling rooms (a rarity in London). There’s also a private cinema, gym, and one of the area’s best afternoon teas.
Hazlitt’s – Steeped in 18th-century character, Hazlitt’s charms with creaky floorboards, antique furnishings, and four-poster beds. It’s intimate, atmospheric, and feels like stepping back into a more debauched era of Soho’s history.
Kettner’s – Once a favourite of Oscar Wilde, Kettner’s blends Belle Époque glamour with modern Soho House polish. Sip champagne in the glitzy bar before retreating to rooms with vintage touches and a little old-world decadence.
Where to Eat
I’ve lost count of how many meals I’ve had in Soho, and still, every visit feels like there’s something new to discover. This neighbourhood is one of London’s most exciting places to eat—dense with flavours, personalities, and dining rooms that could be straight out of a film set.
You can go from a ten-seater counter serving life-changing noodles to a grand brasserie that looks like it’s been airlifted from Paris, all within a few blocks.
Soho rewards curiosity and a healthy appetite, so come hungry, linger often, and don’t be afraid to plan for two dinners. Here are some of the best places I keep coming back to, time and again.
Quo Vadis – An old-school members’ club vibe with Jeremy Lee’s timeless, British-with-a-twist cooking downstairs. Smoked eel sandwich, martini, done—you’re basically part of the furniture.
Speedboat Bar – Luke Farrell’s gloriously rowdy homage to Bangkok’s Chinatown: wok fire, neon, and crunchy-greens-meet-spicy-noodles energy. Order the drunken noodles and let the Singha flow.
BAO – Minimalist Taiwanese cool where pillowy buns meet punchy fillings. The short menu is dangerously efficient—classic pork bao, fried chicken, and a soft-serve chaser.
Lina Stores – Mint-green, carb-forward joy from a Soho stalwart turned pasta bar. Fresh tagliatelle, silky sauces, and cannoli for “the walk” back to your hotel.
Dear Jackie – The glam dining room at Broadwick Soho—retro Italianate swagger with polished service. Think handmade pasta, luscious sauces, and a dessert trolley that winks.
Kiln – Counter seats, clay pots, volcanic spice—Thai cooking that’s smoky, primal, and thrilling. The langoustine curry and glass noodles with pork are cult orders for a reason.
Brasserie Zédel – Grand Parisian brasserie theatrics at delightfully un-Parisian prices. Steak-frites, profiteroles, a room built for rendezvous—bring your appetite and your best shrug.
Mildreds – Plant-based before it was cool, still packing rooms with bold, globe-trotting flavours. Comforting, colourful plates that convert even the carnivores.
Ducksoup – A candlelit, vinyl-spinning natural-wine haven with a short, seasonal menu that reads like a poem. Order a few plates, linger, repeat—this is Soho at whisper-volume.
Kricket – Modern Indian with London swagger: zingy bhel puri, Keralan fried chicken, and cocktails that keep pace. Small plates built for sharing—if you’re feeling generous.
Yeni – An Anatolian love letter of open-fire cooking, smoky vegetables, and fragrant spices. Elegant without fuss; the mezze alone could be your entire evening.
How to Get to Soho
Getting to Soho is wonderfully straightforward—it’s surrounded by some of London’s busiest Underground stations. Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern lines) drops you right at the eastern edge near Charing Cross Road, perfect for hitting Oxford Street or the theatre district.
Oxford Circus (Central, Bakerloo, and Victoria lines) lands you on the northern border at Regent Street, just steps from Carnaby Street. On the west side, Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) whisks you in from Heathrow or King’s Cross, while Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) is handy if you’re coming from Covent Garden or Chinatown.
All are within a 5–10 minute walk of Soho’s core, meaning you can hop off almost anywhere and be in the thick of it pretty quickly.
How to Get Around
Walk. Really—Soho is barely a square kilometre, and its charm lives in the side streets you’d miss on wheels. Taxis and buses will only slow you down; the joy is in zigzagging from Old Compton Street to Carnaby via hidden alleyways, spotting neon signs, vintage shopfronts, and café tables spilling into the street.
Wear comfortable shoes, keep your phone handy for map checks, and let yourself get a little lost—it’s the only way to do Soho right.
So, which of these things to do in Soho, London will you be doing? Let me know below!
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