Piccadilly Circus is one of the places that define London in the public imagination. It’s appeared in countless films and television programmes, with scenes of London traffic, always including at least one of London’s famous big red double-deckers passing by under the advertising signs that have illuminated the Piccadilly night since 1908.
Piccadilly Circus is where some of London’s most important streets meet. It’s where various sides of London meet. To its west, lies Mayfair; to its east, Soho and Theatreland. Head south and you’ll soon find yourself on The Mall, the grand avenue that leads up to Buckingham Palace. Finding itself at the meeting point of different sides of the city means that there’s a whole lot of variety in what you can do.
It’s no wonder London consistently ranks among the top 10 cities to visit around the world, and Piccadilly is its vibrant epicentre. One of the area’s biggest advantages for any traveller is the sheer number of indoor attractions. This makes it a fantastic starting point when you’re looking for things to do in London when it rains, as you can easily duck into a gallery, theatre, or grand department store.
While the Piccadilly Lights shine year-round, the area takes on an extra sparkle during the festive season. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s famed decorations, perhaps on a special Christmas Lights Bus Tour in London, or to visit some of the best Christmas markets in the world just a short journey away.
Table of Contents
Start exploring all Piccadilly has to offer
1. Catch a Show in the West End’s Theatreland
If you want to see a show, then Theatreland is the place to go. There’ve been theatres in the West End since the seventeenth century with famous stars from Nell Gwynn to David Garrick and Laurence Olivier to Judi Dench treading the boards in one of the forty theatres that are crammed into this area between Regent Street, Oxford Street, Kingsway and the Strand.
Catching a play or a show might not be the cheapest option, but you are on holiday so it can’t hurt to treat yourself. And if you look around you can often pick up cheap theatre tickets on the day. Head to Leicester Square and you’ll find TKTS, the old Half-Price ticket booth which has been selling cheap theatre tickets for more than sixty years. And it’s not always easy to find cheap or free things to do in London!
The area is home to some of the most iconic and historic theatres in the world, and there’s always a new and exciting production to check out. Whether you’re into musicals, dramas, or comedies, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.
2. Check out the amazing art at the National Gallery
The National Gallery stands in Trafalgar Square, just a short walk (or one hop-on hop-off bus stop away) from Piccadilly Circus, and is home to some of the world’s most loved paintings, including incredible works by Van Gogh, Botticelli, and da Vinci.One of its most famous paintings is The Ambassadors by Hans Holbein. It’s an incredible picture, one that you can spend ages in front of trying to interpret every last artistic clue.
The National Gallery is a true heavyweight and a cornerstone of any cultural trip to the capital. For art lovers looking to explore further, it serves as a brilliant introduction to the many brilliant museums in London, from the historic to the contemporary.
Right outside, the National Gallery is one of London’s defining sights, Trafalgar Square and Nelson’s Column.
3. Go shopping on Oxford Street
No trip to London is complete without a shopping spree on Oxford Street, which is Europe’s busiest shopping street. It’s been an important road since the time of the Romans, but it was only a few hundred years that the city’s shoppers started to head for its stores as there weren’t any before that!
A walk down Oxford Street is an essential London experience, but be warned, it’s pretty hectic. Every day is Christmas Eve on Oxford Street, with people scurrying hither and thither in search of their latest shopping fix. Don’t let us put you off though. It’s something you have to do at least once in your life.
4. Try some delicious food in Chinatown
London’s
Chinatown is tiny, but it certainly packs a lot in. Lying between Theatreland
and the southern edge of Soho, it’s essentially centred around Gerrard Street. In
comparison with Chinatowns in other of the world’s major cities, London’s (in
its current location) is relatively young. It was only in the 1970’s that parts
of London’s community decided to open restaurants and businesses here.
It
grew quickly though. Now there are more than 80 Chinese restaurants here where
you can eat the full range of Chinese cuisine. A chicken chow mein is possibly
as British a dish as there is nowadays. It can’t be too far behind a chicken
tikka masala in popularity!
Today’s
Chinatown is a vibrant and colourful area full of restaurants, shops, and
cultural events. Make sure you get a photo by the famous Chinatown gate and you
take in the atmosphere, but most of all try the food!
5. Take a stroll in Green Park
If you’re in need of a break from the hustle and bustle, head to Green Park. This beautiful green space is just a short walk from Piccadilly Circus and is the perfect place to head if you’re looking for things to do in London with kids, or just to go to relax and unwind.
The park is one of the Royal Parks of London. These parks were once used by the Royal family for hunting, but you’ll be lucky to see the king out in his parks these days! This forty-acre expanse of green is a treasure in the heart of the city. Take a picnic, maybe a good book, or just lie back and enjoy the scenery.
Being a Royal Park, Green Park’s greatest neighbour is, of course, Buckingham Palace itself. After a relaxing stroll, many visitors enjoy the short walk to the palace gates. While the State Rooms have limited opening times, getting a sense of the scale of the monarch’s home is a must-do, and a tour inside Buckingham Palace can be booked for those visiting in the summer.
6. Experience the buzz of Covent Garden
Just a 10-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden is a must-visit destination for foodies, shoppers, and culture lovers. The historic market halls are packed with independent traders selling everything from handmade crafts to artisanal food and drink, while the surrounding streets are home to a range of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Make sure you catch a street performance in the piazza, too – the talented performers are a highlight of any visit to Covent Garden.
7. See the sights on a Thames river cruise
For a totally different view of the city, hop on a Thames River Cruise from nearby Westminster Pier. You’ll see iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London.
The Thames is the lifeblood of the city. It’s seen all London’s history. It’s hard not to feel some of that as you sail along its murky waters. Shakespeare would have walked on these banks. Kings and queens. Millions of ordinary Londoners. It divides the city into North and South. A division that means something to the city’s inhabitants. Really, no London trip is complete without a Thames cruise.
To make your day’s sightseeing seamless, combining transport is a savvy move. A London River Cruise + Hop-On Hop-Of Bus ticket allows you to enjoy the view from the water and then easily explore the city’s streets. For those captivated by the history on display, the Tower of London Tickets + Thames River Cruise + Bus Tour offers a comprehensive deep-dive into the capital’s past.
From the boat, you’ll get a fantastic view of the South Bank’s iconic skyline, including the London Eye. If you’re inspired to experience these attractions up close, the London Pass: Eye, Tussauds, SEA LIFE + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is an excellent way to bundle the biggest crowd-pleasers into your itinerary.
8. Fortnum & Mason
Ever wondered where the Royal family buy their grub? Well, Fortnum & Mason is rumoured to be where they get their groceries. It was one of the late Queen’s favourite shops. Rumour has it that sometimes, it would close to the public to allow her to visit.
It’s not your run-of-the-mill food store. The caviar here is the finest that money can buy! Bizarrely, despite its unquestionable poshness, it was the first shop in the UK to sell baked beans. All the way back in the 19th century! You might not be able to afford anything, but a visit to Fortnum & Mason is fascinating if you want to see how the other half live.
After browsing the luxurious offerings at Fortnum & Mason, you might be in the mood for another quintessentially British indulgence. The tradition of afternoon tea is a perfect way to round off a sophisticated day. For an unforgettable experience, the Tea at Rubens + Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + Thames Cruise combines this elegant treat with more spectacular city views.
9. Soho
Soho is one of Londoners’ favourite places to go for a night out. Home to countless bars, restaurants and more than a few clubs, it’s somewhere you’re guaranteed to have a good time. Today, it’s one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Not so long ago, Soho had something of a dodgy reputation as the heart of the capital’s sex industry, but in recent decades it has undergone considerable gentrification – a change that hasn’t pleased everyone. Its origins, however, were far grander.
Once a royal park, Soho later became a fashionable residential area for the aristocracy before evolving into the lively cultural hub we know today. Make sure to stop by Berwick Street Market, where you’ll find delicious fresh produce alongside quirky independent shops. It’s also a brilliant spot for street food, with everything from falafels to burritos and Afghan curries.
Another highlight is Old Compton Street, a historic meeting point for London’s LGBT+ community. It’s a colourful, lively street with plenty of great places to eat — Balans at number 34 is even open 24 hours a day!
Soho’s vibrant, creative energy has long attracted artists and musicians. Its bustling streets have been immortalised in songs and remain must-visit spots for modern pop-culture pilgrimages, with fans often exploring Taylor Swift’s London locations in the area. The neighbourhood’s many pubs also take centre stage during city-wide celebrations, becoming hives of activity for events like St Patrick’s Day.
10. What is the best time of day to visit Piccadilly Circus itself?
The best time of day to visit Piccadilly Circus depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your visit. Here are some suggestions for different times of the day:
- Morning (9 am – 11 am) If you prefer a quieter atmosphere and want to avoid large crowds, visiting Piccadilly Circus in the morning is a good option. This is also a great time to take photos and enjoy a leisurely breakfast or coffee at a nearby café.
- Afternoon (12 pm – 4 pm): The afternoon is a popular time for shopping and exploring the nearby attractions. While it can be busier during this time, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the vibrant energy of Piccadilly Circus and its surrounding areas.
- Evening (5 pm – 8 pm): As the evening approaches, the atmosphere at Piccadilly Circus becomes even more lively, with people heading to restaurants, bars, and theatres. This is an excellent time to visit if you want to experience the nightlife and entertainment options in the area.
- Night (9 pm onwards): Visiting Piccadilly Circus at night offers a unique experience, as the iconic Piccadilly Lights illuminate the area, creating a dazzling display. This is a great time to take photos and enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Piccadilly Circus depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your visit.
Piccadilly, the heart of London
Piccadilly Circus is right at the heart of so much of London. It’s an essential destination for every visitor to the city. There’s so much to do in London, and, as you can see, there’s so much around Piccadilly Circus too. If you’re on our Hop-on Hop-off London bus, then hop off at Haymarket (just round the corner from Piccadilly Circus) and start exploring. Once you’ve seen the best of the capital, remember it’s also a fantastic gateway to other UK holiday destinations for families. For those on a grander tour, you can even continue your adventure with an Edinburgh + London Hop-on Hop- off Tour Package.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Piccadilly Circus is a famous public space and road junction in London, known for its vibrant atmosphere, iconic landmarks, and bustling shopping and entertainment options. It is in the West End, at the intersection of Regent Street and Shaftesbury Avenue.
Piccadilly Circus is surrounded by numerous dining options that cater to various budgets. Here are five affordable, non-fast-food restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank:
- Dishoom – This popular Bombay-style café offers a variety of Indian dishes, such as biryanis, kebabs, and curries, at reasonable prices. Located in Kingly Street, it’s just a short walk from Piccadilly Circus.
- Franco Manca – If you’re craving authentic sourdough pizza, Franco Manca is the place to go. Located on Berwick Street, Soho, this pizzeria offers a range of delicious pizzas at affordable prices.
- Kiln – For a taste of Thai cuisine, head to Kiln on Brewer Street. This restaurant specializes in clay pot cooking and offers an array of flavourful dishes at reasonable prices.
The statue is not actually of Eros, but Anteros his brother! The significance of the statue lies in its original purpose as a memorial to Anthony Ashley Cooper, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, a philanthropist known for his efforts to abolish child labour and promote children’s education. Officially known as the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, the statue features a winged figure of Anteros, symbolizing “reflective and mature love,” as opposed to the frivolous nature of Eros or Cupid. This choice was meant to represent the selfless love that the Earl of Shaftesbury demonstrated through his charitable works.