One of the most vibrant, fashionable and central of London's neighbourhoods, Soho provides an ideal base to see the city. It's narrow streets and relatively small area (it was at one time a village!) enable it to maintain its distinct atmosphere and charm despite being bordered by some of London's busiest streets! Soho is home to many diverse communites making it a truly colorful place to visit :

London's Gay scene centres around Old Compton Street and the area boasts numerous gay bars and clubs with new venues opening up on a regular basis.
London's gay scene

Chinatown is located between Shaftesbury Avenue and Leicester Square Its main road: Gerard Street with it's distinctive pagoda style arches at either end, contains many restaurants and shops which are definately worth a visit. Soho is traditionally an area which has attracted immigrants and the influences of various communities including the italians are still in evidence in the area, particularly in the food on offer; many delicious smells greet you as you make your way through its streets.

Always unconventional, Soho has a great history of atracting bohemians, artists and literary figures. It was also known for its Jazz clubs, of which 'Ronnie Scotts' and the 100 Club are still thriving.

Soho was once known as London's red light district. The area still has a number of peep shows and sex shops but many have now closed up and moved on, some of those still in business look like they haven't been changed since the seventies (likewise some of their employees!)

Many companies involved in media and the arts are based in the area London's film industry is centred here as is much of its advertising industry and the theatrical community. Film production houses, editors and post production, advertising agencies, casting agencies, Theatrical producers and agents can all be found in Soho, Several private clubs in the area including the Century Club, the Groucho Club and Soho House cater to clientele from these industries.

In the streets surrounding Soho are the many theatres of London's world famous West End. Known as 'theatreland'. All manner of shows from musicals to serious drama are on offer. A half price ticket hut situated in Leicester square sells tickets for shows for the same day. Soho Theatre on Dean Street is a new venue which presents mainly new writing. Tickets are affordable and the shows are high quality and cutting edge.

Bordering the area, Oxford Street is a famous shopping location. One end is a little run down but as you make your way towards Hyde Park the standard improves. Department Stores including Selfridges and John Lewis can be found here as can many clothing stores and the Virgin Megastore. Bond Street turns off Oxford Street and is home to expensive fashion outlets such as Prada and Gucci also on this street is Sotheby`s, the famous auction house.