Living in or staying in Soho, London

Scores

Safety and quiet come from researched sources about the whole neighborhood; walkability, transport and nightlife from the address reports here.

About Soho

Dense, historic West End streets mix theaters, restaurants, bars, shops, offices, and small historic squares. Soho is lively throughout the day and especially busy after dark, with heavy pedestrian activity, nightlife crowds, taxis, and late-opening venues.

Good for

• first-time visitors
• nightlife seekers
• foodies
• culture lovers
• couples

Less suited to

• quiet seekers
• families
• people with limited mobility
• drivers
• pet owners

Watch out for

• Expect busy pavements and nightlife crowds late into the evening.
• Keep valuables secure around crowded streets, station approaches, and busy venues.
• Check your accommodation's exact street before booking, as noise varies considerably.
• Soho Square Gardens has limited opening hours and does not allow dogs.

Sources

• Soho Neighbourhood Plan
• Soho Square Gardens
• London mayor orders council to drop plan to ban new pubs and bars in Soho and West End

Local picks

Food & drink

• Koya Soho

  Japanese · Handmade udon, small plates, and a lively atmosphere make this a standout Soho dining choice.

• The Counter Soho

  Middle Eastern · Enjoy bold Middle Eastern flavours and shareable dishes in a cosy, energetic setting.

• Lina Stores Soho

  Italian · This long-established spot serves fresh pasta and classic Italian dishes in an intimate dining room.

• Breadstall Pizza

  Pizza · Grab large, satisfying slices with crisp bases and chewy crusts while exploring Berwick Street.

• Goldies Soho

  American · Try indulgent fried chicken and burgers in the casual, colourful setting of Kingly Court.

• Tonkotsu Soho

  Japanese · Warm up with rich ramen and Japanese sides at this relaxed Dean Street restaurant.

• Bar Italia

  A Soho institution for espresso, pastries, and late-night people-watching near Frith Street.

• Maison Bertaux

  Choose delicate French-style cakes and pastries from one of Soho’s best-known historic cafés.

• Café Boheme

  Relax over coffee, light food, and live entertainment in a distinctive Soho setting.

• Peyton and Byrne Bakeries

  Pick up coffee and baked treats in a convenient café setting close to Soho’s shopping streets.

Sights & things to do

• Soho Square

  Take a peaceful break in this historic garden surrounded by some of central London’s liveliest streets.

• Carnaby

  Browse independent shops, colourful streets, and seasonal installations in this iconic shopping quarter.

• Berwick Street Market

  Explore a historic market known for food stalls, produce, and an energetic local atmosphere.

• Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club

  Hear world-class jazz in one of London’s most celebrated and atmospheric music venues.

• The Photographers' Gallery

  See ambitious photography exhibitions in a leading gallery just south of Soho.

• Soho Theatre

  Catch comedy, theatre, cabaret, and contemporary performances at this influential arts venue.

• Soho Food Tour

  Discover the neighbourhood through guided tastings and stories about its diverse food culture.

• London Chinatown Walk

  Explore nearby Chinatown’s restaurants, shops, landmarks, and distinctive cultural history on foot.

• Shopping around Kingly Court

  Browse independent fashion, design, beauty, and food businesses around this vibrant pedestrian courtyard.

• Live music at Ronnie Scott's

  Book an evening of acclaimed live jazz in an intimate club with a rich Soho history.

• Comedy at Soho Theatre

  See emerging and established comedians in one of London’s favourite comedy venues.

• Explore Soho’s heritage streets

  Wander Dean Street, Greek Street, Frith Street, and Carnaby to experience Soho’s layered history.