Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LU

Leicester Square


Leicester Square is a pedestrianised square in the West End of London, England. It was laid out in 1670 as Leicester Fields, which was named after the recently built Leicester House, itself named after Robert Sidney, 2nd Earl of Leicester.

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Leicester Square is a bustling tourist destination located in the heart of London, England. It is a vibrant area that offers visitors a plethora of exciting things to see and do, making it a must-visit location for anyone traveling to London. As a tourist destination, Leicester Square has something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, entertainment, or food.

One of the primary reasons why Leicester Square is such a popular tourist attraction is due to its location. It is situated in the West End of London, close to some of the city's most popular sights such as Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and the National Gallery. This makes it an ideal place to visit if you are short on time but still want to see and experience as much of London as possible.

Leicester Square is known for its vibrant atmosphere and colorful nightlife. The area is home to numerous cinemas, theaters, and music venues, making it a hub for entertainment. There are always exciting events happening in Leicester Square, including film premieres, red carpet events, and music concerts. Visitors can enjoy a night out at the theater, watch a movie, or catch a live performance by a world-famous musician.

In addition to entertainment, Leicester Square also offers visitors the opportunity to explore its rich history and culture. The square has been a cultural hub of London for centuries, and it is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Leicester Square Gardens, the statue of Shakespeare, and the historic Hippodrome Casino. Visitors can take a walk around the square and discover the many historical and cultural gems it has to offer.

One of the best things about Leicester Square is its diverse culinary scene. The area is home to a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious food from all over the world. Whether you are in the mood for Italian, Indian, Chinese, or Mexican cuisine, you are sure to find something that tickles your taste buds in Leicester Square.

Overall, Leicester Square is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to London. Its central location, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse offerings make it an ideal place to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you are looking for entertainment, culture, history, or food, Leicester Square has something for everyone, and it is sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time in London.

Things to do nearby

Leicester Square is a bustling and vibrant area in the heart of London that attracts tourists from all over the world. Known for its lively atmosphere, theatres, cinemas, and restaurants, Leicester Square has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best places and things to do nearby Leicester Square from a tourist perspective.

1. Catch a show at one of the many theatres

Leicester Square is famous for its West End theatres, and catching a show is a must-do when in the area. Some of the most popular shows currently playing include "The Lion King," "Phantom of the Opera," "Wicked," and "Les Misérables." With so many shows to choose from, there's something for every taste and budget.

2. Visit the National Gallery

The National Gallery is just a short walk from Leicester Square and is one of the world's most famous art museums. The gallery houses a vast collection of over 2,300 paintings from the mid-13th century to 1900, including works by Botticelli, Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh. Admission to the gallery is free, and it's a great place to spend a few hours exploring some of the world's most famous art.

3. Take a stroll through Chinatown

Located just to the north of Leicester Square, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and markets. Here, you can find a wide range of Chinese cuisine, from traditional dim sum to modern fusion dishes. There are also plenty of shops selling souvenirs and other unique items, making it a great place to pick up a souvenir or two.

4. Enjoy the nightlife

Leicester Square is known for its nightlife, and there are plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. Some of the most popular venues include Ruby Blue, Hippodrome Casino, and Ku Bar. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or a night of partying, Leicester Square has something to offer.

5. Visit Trafalgar Square

Just a short walk from Leicester Square, Trafalgar Square is one of London's most famous landmarks. Here, you can see the iconic Nelson's Column and the famous fountains, as well as enjoy street performers and musicians. Trafalgar Square is also home to the National Portrait Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields church, both of which are worth a visit.

6. Take a ride on the London Eye

The London Eye is one of London's most famous attractions and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Located just across the River Thames from Leicester Square, the London Eye is easily accessible by foot or public transport. There are also plenty of other attractions nearby, including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium and the London Dungeon.

In conclusion, Leicester Square is a fantastic place to visit for tourists looking for a fun-filled and exciting experience. With so much to see and do, it's easy to spend a few days exploring the area and enjoying all that it has to offer. Whether you're interested in theatre, art, food, or nightlife, Leicester Square is sure to deliver.

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