You’ll find Leicester Square in London's West End, known for its vibrant entertainment, London cultural significance and historical charm. Famous for its cinemas, theatres, and electric nightlife, Leicester Square attracts locals and tourists daily, making it an ideal spot to grab something delicious to eat. Its central location also offers easy access to numerous attractions, including Covent Garden, Soho, and Piccadilly Circus.
Choosing Leicester Square for lunch means you're surrounded by a rich selection of London's best culinary offerings - . Oone of which is the iconic Bentley's Oyster Bar and Grill. Bentley's is renowned for its exquisite seafood and classic British fare, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle to enjoy the simple yet elegant flavours of the sea.
A timeless gem
Leicester Square is a landmark steeped in history, standing as a timeless relic in the heart of London. Dating back to the 17th century, it has evolved from a nobleman’s garden into a vibrant cultural location and entertainment hub, symbolising the city's enduring spirit and evolution. Strategically situated in the bustling West End, Leicester Square is bordered by prominent areas like Covent Garden, Soho, and Piccadilly Circus, placing it at the epicentre of London’s entertainment district. This prime location makes it easily accessible and a distinct landmark, meeting point and area of historical significance in London.
Home to some of the city’s most famous cinemas, including the historic Odeon and the iconic Empire, Leicester Square is a premier destination for film premieres and star-studded events. Enjoy glimpses of celebrities, lively street performers, and the tranquillity of the central garden, catching glimpses of statues of William Shakespeare and other notable figures. Discover our favourite things to do near Leicester Square.
Behind the curtain
Originally laid out as a private garden for the aristocracy, it was named after Robert Sidney, the 2nd Earl of Leicester, who owned Leicester House on the northern side of the square. Over the centuries, Leicester Square transitioned from a nobleman's retreat to a bustling public space, becoming a focal point for entertainment and culture in the city.
What makes Leicester Square truly special is its status as a hub of cultural and social activity. The square is home to some of London's most iconic cinemas, such as the Odeon and Empire, which host numerous film premieres, attracting celebrities and film enthusiasts from around the world. This association with the film industry has cemented Leicester Square's reputation as the heart of London's cinematic culture, encouraging tourists to flock here each week.
Locals will also know how Leicester Square boasts a dynamic range of shows and events. The surrounding West End theatres offer a plethora of world class performances, from timeless musicals like "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Les Misérables" to contemporary hits such as "Hamilton" and "The Book of Mormon." Street performers, musicians, and artists frequently animate the square, offering spontaneous entertainment and adding to its lively atmosphere. Annual events, including film festivals and cultural celebrations, further enrich the square's vibrant character, providing an experience where no two days are the same.
Plenty to do and see near Leicester Square
While Leicester Square is a destination in itself, it is also a gateway to a plethora of attractions and activities in central London. Visitors will find a diverse range of experiences just a short walk away, from local attractions to incredible restaurants.
Local Attractions
The National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery: A short stroll from Leicester Square, these iconic art museums house some of the world’s most renowned artworks. The National Gallery features masterpieces from the likes of Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner, while the National Portrait Gallery showcases portraits of historically significant and famous British individuals. Atop the National Portrait Gallery, discover another of our Chef Patron Richard Corrigan’s restaurants - The Portrait Restaurant.
Covent Garden: Just east of Leicester Square, Covent Garden is a vibrant area known for its lively market, boutique shops, and street performances. The Apple Market offers unique crafts and antiques, while the surrounding streets are home to an array of high-end shops and cosy cafes.
Trafalgar Square: A cultural hub, Trafalgar Square is famous for Nelson’s Column, the fountains, and the Fourth Plinth, which displays rotating contemporary art installations. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the historical ambience.
Soho: Adjacent to Leicester Square, Soho is a bustling neighbourhood renowned for its eclectic nightlife, trendy bars, and diverse dining options. It’s a hotspot for music lovers, with numerous live music venues and clubs.
St. James's Park: A short walk from Leicester Square, this picturesque park offers a serene retreat with its beautifully landscaped gardens, a lake, and views of Buckingham Palace. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic.
The Embankment Gardens: Located nearby, these gardens provide a lovely green space along the River Thames, perfect for a relaxing break from the urban hustle.
West End Theaters: Leicester Square is at the heart of London’s theatre district. Visitors can enjoy an array of world-class productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals. Notable theatres include the Prince of Wales Theatre, home to "The Book of Mormon," and the Palace Theatre, currently showing "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."
Whether you're interested in art, history, theatre, or simply enjoying the vibrant street life, the area around Leicester Square offers an abundance of activities and sights.
Leicester Square restaurants
Under a 10 minute walk from Leicester Square, Bentley's has been a cornerstone of Swallow Street since 1916. As part of the Corrigan Collection, Bentley’s is revered for its culinary excellence and rich history within central London.
Under the stewardship of Chef Richard Corrigan since 2005, Bentley’s has remained true to the principles that originally established its renown. Chef Corrigan has ensured that the restaurant's ethos remains focused on the finest fresh and regional ingredients, sourced from trusted local suppliers. Bentley’s champions wild line-caught fish, sustainable seafood, and prime British meats, offering a menu that is both diverse and seasonally inspired. The restaurant is particularly celebrated for its oysters, featuring the largest showcase of British wild, native, and cultivated varieties, meticulously prepared and served with a touch of finesse.
For over 100 years, Bentley’s has been a favoured haunt of the foremost and the fashionable, who have indulged in light lunches of langoustines, oysters and champagne, and towers of delicacies before heading to the theatre. The oyster boys at Bentley's are known for their expertise, ensuring that each dozen oysters, whether from Galway, Carlingford, Jersey or another trusted source, is perfectly chilled and exquisitely presented, as they have been for over a century.
The modern menu at Bentley’s is thoughtfully curated to highlight the best offerings from the British and Irish Isles, changing seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Expect menu delights such as a Classic Seafood Cocktail, delectable Baked Scallop, Dover Sole Meunière, Crab Ravioli, and plenty more showcasing the very best of the current season. Despite this seasonal rotation, some classics remain steadfast, including the traditional fish and chips and the famous Bentley’s Fish Pie, beloved by regulars and newcomers alike.
Whether you're popping in for some champagne and oysters, enjoying a pre-theatre tower of seafood delicacies, or indulging in a sumptuous lunch, Bentley's offers a range of incredible menus to suit every occasion and palate. What’s more, fantastic food needs an equally prestigious drinks partner and Bentley’s wine list spans across the globe, encompassing whites from the foothills of France, reds from the valleys of Italy and Portugal, and old-world and new-world choices from all the spaces in between. For any London local or visiting traveller, Bentley’s is a must visit stop on any London itinerary.