Leicester Square (London, United Kingdom)
Leicester Square: The Capital’s Iconic Square
Bursting with trendy nightspots, acclaimed culinary experiences, shops and theatres, Leicester Square is one of the most vibrant areas in London. When it was first devised in 1670, the square was a cosy residential area populated by distinguished tenants. Yet from the late 18th century onwards, the area was redeveloped as a hub for entertainment. Theatres and cinemas, some of which are among the most historic and significant in the country, became the main draw of Leicester Square. These were accompanied by bars, restaurants, shops and a charming central park, which helped give the area its reputation as a non-stop 24/7 destination. Now visitors from across the globe journey to Leicester Square to take in the famous sights, catch a show and revel in the vibrant atmosphere.
Celebrate Chinese New Year in Style
Unless you’re fearful of the typically cold and dour British weather during the winter months, there isn’t a bad time of the year to visit Leicester Square. Shows frequently take place regardless of the month, and films are always being screened at the cinemas in the area. But during the month of January, the square comes alive for one particular celebration: Chinese New Year. Alongside Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square is the main focus of the festivities when the capital’s Chinese community celebrate New Year. Popup stages feature the best of Chinese culture, including martial arts demonstrations, music, and lion dances. Chinese firecrackers deliver a lively – and noisy – backdrop, while the sky is lit up by traditional fireworks later in the day.
Attractions Not to Miss
It’s impossible to list the main attractions of Leicester Square without referencing the main cinemas which populate the area. Mainstream options include Vue Cinema West End, Empire Leicester Square and Odeon Leicester Square. The latter is one of the world’s most renowned cinemas and first opened back in 1937 as the flagship for Odeon. The Prince Charles Cinema is a popular choice among movie fans wanting to watch cult classics in a cosy setting. Leicester Square is also home to some of London’s most noteworthy shops. This includes the LEGO Store, which is the biggest of its kind on the planet. There’s also M&M’s World, an emporium dedicated to the popular confectionery by the same name.
Staying in Leicester Square
With all of its positive points, there’s a reason why hotels in or near Leicester Square are in hot demand. As with virtually any Leicester Square or London hotels on offer, none of the options come in cheap. However, one of the best priced options in the area is Premier Inn Leicester Square. Yet don’t let its relatively affordable price tag or brand name fool you; this hotel supplies simple and comfortable accommodation alongside a prime location in Leicester Square. For something a little more extravagant, however, the square has several high-end hotels. Two of the best examples are W London – Leicester Square and Radisson Blu Edwardian, Hampshire, with both incorporating timeless elegance and luxurious comforts.
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Leicester Square