Explore Leicester Square
Leicester Square is a fully pedestrianized and extremely busy hub in Central London that is extremely popular amongst tourists and locals alike – you’ll never find it lying completely quiet. Although this is a reason why a lot of visitors avoid it, they are missing out on a treat! There is plenty to be discovered in Leicester Square so read on to find out more about this thriving area.
Leicester Square by Day
In the centre of Leicester Square sits a small park which is home to a statue of the great William Shakespeare which is surrounded by dolphins. At each corner of the park you will find busts of Sir Isaac Newton, William Hogarth, John Hunter and Sir Joshua Reynolds. Recently, a statue of Charlie Chaplin was also erected in the park.
If you’ve hit the town on a chilly day, you couldn’t be more perfectly placed to while away a couple of hours in the cinema. Leicester Square is widely heralded as the centre of London’s cinema-land. The Square regularly plays host to some of the world’s biggest film stars as they tread the red carpet into the Odeon. So take in a film there and chances are you might end up sitting in the same seat that was once graced by Brad or Angelina.
The Square is also heavily populated by eateries including Burger King, McDonalds, Angus Steakhouse and Bella Pasta. Plenty for the fast food fix while you’re on the go.
Leicester Square at Night
The Square buzzes just as much at night as it does by day. Be certain to keep an eye on your possessions as pickpockets are known to operate around this area. They also target the Square by day but it’s good to be especially vigilant under cover of darkness! The Square is packed with restaurants, bars and clubs that throb with music and activity into the early hours of the morning. Head to Ruby Blue for a late dinner then hit the bar or dance floor to enjoy yourselves after dining. Live pianists and singers perform regularly so you’re guaranteed entertainment while you eat.
If you’re hoping to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, you might be lucky if you spend an evening at Red Cube on Leicester Place. The bar and club are decked out in fine style and it is rumoured to be popular amongst celebrities. Party the night away and keep them peeled!
If you’d like to take in a show, you’re in the right place. Head to Leicester Square Theatre where there’s always something to be seen. Regular performances from comedians and musicians are interspersed with theatrical productions. This 400 seat venue with its two bars is the perfect place to spend your evening in Leicester Square.
There are also plenty of shops, markets and stalls (including a winter fair and special celebrations for the Chinese New Year) in the Square and its surrounding areas so it’s definitely worth ear marking a day to explore Leicester Square and everything it has to offer for the inquisitive tourist.
