Leicester Square in London features several notable statues, including one of Shakespeare above a fountain and a bronze statue of Charlie Chaplin. Visitors can explore the extensive shops like M&M’s World and the LEGO Store, alongside a variety of dining options from casual to upscale. The square hosts seasonal markets and events, enhancing its lively atmosphere. Its gardens and illuminated fountains offer pleasant spaces for relaxation. Further details reveal additional attractions and visitor tips.
Leicester Square also features several important statues and monuments. At the center stands the Shakespeare Monument, positioned above a fountain designed by Giovanni Fontana in 1874. This fountain is surrounded by water jets that are illuminated at night, adding to the square’s ambiance.
The Swiss Glockenspiel, a 10-meter tall steel clock gifted by Switzerland and Liechtenstein, chimes hourly and displays moving figures and canton flags. The bronze statue of Charlie Chaplin, created by John Doubleday, is another significant memorial located within Leicester Square Gardens. The gardens also contain statues of notable historical figures such as Sir Isaac Newton and William Hogarth. Leicester Square is located in London’s vibrant theatre district, known for its rich history.
Leicester Square Gardens showcase the Swiss Glockenspiel, Charlie Chaplin statue, and monuments to Newton and Hogarth.
A 2012 redevelopment improved the gardens by enhancing fountains, seating, and preserving these Grade II listed sculptures.
For shopping, Leicester Square offers diverse options. Europe’s largest M&M’s World provides a vast selection of sweets and merchandise in a space large enough to hold 100 double-decker buses. The two-floor LEGO Store is the world’s biggest and features impressive models, including a 6.5-meter Big Ben replica with a working clock and a life-size LEGO tube carriage.
The Japan Centre offers Japanese food, cooking goods, and unique gifts. Surrounding shops cater to tourists and locals with souvenirs and boutique items, while Planet Hollywood displays floor plaques with handprints and names of famous actors, adding to the retail experience.
Dining and nightlife in Leicester Square are varied. Family-friendly restaurants such as MOD Pizza and Bella Italia share the area with more upscale venues like Petit Bistro and Leicester Square Kitchen, which offer pre-theatre menus.
The square’s nightlife is lively, with bars, clubs, and well-known casinos including Hippodrome Casino and Empire Casino contributing to the evening economy. Casual fast-food options like McDonald’s and TGI Fridays provide quick meals.
Seasonal changes bring festive markets in winter and other events in summer, enhancing the square’s dynamic atmosphere throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get to Leicester Square Using Public Transport?
Leicester Square is accessible by London Underground via the Northern and Piccadilly Lines, with trains arriving every five minutes.
Numerous buses, including routes 14 and 15, also serve the area, departing frequently from nearby locations like Trafalgar Square.
Train travelers can transfer from main stations using connecting bus routes.
Walking is viable from nearby landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden, with the station situated on Charing Cross Road, close to several key attractions.
Are There Any Free Wi-Fi Spots in Leicester Square?
Yes, Leicester Square offers free Wi-Fi with speeds up to 8 Mbit/s, available to anyone physically present.
Users must select the designated network and complete a simple registration, often involving an email address. Once registered, devices reconnect automatically when in range.
Providers such as O2 and The Cloud maintain these hotspots.
Additional free Wi-Fi is accessible in nearby cafes and venues, making connectivity convenient throughout the square and surrounding areas.
What Are the Nearest Hotels to Leicester Square?
The nearest hotels to Leicester Square include Premier Inn London Leicester Square, located centrally with modern amenities, and Victory House Leicester Square, known for its cinematic-themed rooms.
The Londoner Hotel and Radisson Blu Hotel, both five-star properties, are directly on Leicester Square, offering luxury accommodations.
Hotel Indigo London at 1 Leicester Square provides art deco style nearby.
Additional options within 0.3 miles include Montcalm Piccadilly Townhouse and The Z Hotel Leicester Square, all within walking distance of major transport links.
Is Leicester Square Safe to Visit at Night?
Leicester Square is not entirely safe to visit at night due to high rates of violent crime, theft, and anti-social behavior.
Visitors should remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and near public transport. Pickpocketing and robberies are common after dark.
Staying in well-lit, busy locations and avoiding isolated spots can reduce risks.
Using trusted transport and keeping personal belongings secure is advisable for night visitors.
Are Pets Allowed in Leicester Square?
Pets are generally not allowed in Leicester Square’s residential buildings, hotels, and public spaces, with most accommodations enforcing strict no-pet policies.
Exceptions exist only for registered assistance dogs, which must be arranged in advance with the property.
Public areas do not designate pet-friendly zones, and local rules often require dogs to be leashed or prohibit them entirely.
Confirming specific pet policies with each venue before visiting is advisable to ascertain compliance.
