The central intersection of London
Piccadilly Circus is a central hub in London, located within the borough of Westminster. Serving as both the commercial crossroads of Regent Street and the theater district of Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly Circus is a frequent site for outdoor performances and commercial events.
Shopping at Piccadilly Circus
If you are a fan of shopping, you will find plenty to do along this thoroughfare. The neon lights and massive advertisements from major British and American brands are designed to draw you in. Whether you are hunting for small, iconic London souvenirs or browsing international retailers, you can enjoy the walk from Regent Street to Leicester Square and Soho. For families, the Lego Store and Hamleys displays put their most popular toys on full display.
You can also find a range of British specialties at Fortnum & Mason, including teas, coffees, and chocolates that hold the official seal of approval from the British royal family.
Dining and nightlife
Piccadilly Circus is arguably the most energetic neighborhood in London for a night out, offering a massive selection of restaurants and bars. Big international chains open and close quickly here: Planet Hollywood London no longer appears on the brand's restaurant list, so check that an address is still open before crossing town for it.
The Trocadero, long the big entertainment complex of the junction, closed its attractions in 2011: the building now houses a hotel and the Picturehouse Central cinema.
A night in London would not be complete without the famous musicals that run year-round in the various theaters of the West End along Shaftesbury Avenue. The line-up changes every year, so you will have plenty of options, but keep in mind that you should book your tickets well in advance as these shows are in high demand.
The Shaftesbury Memorial and Horses of Helios
In the center of Piccadilly Circus stands the Shaftesbury Memorial. Erected in memory of Lord Shaftesbury in 1893, the fountain is topped by a bronze statue of the Angel of Christian Charity. Londoners have long referred to it simply as Eros.
The Horses of Helios fountain is located at the corner of Piccadilly and Haymarket. It depicts the four horses of Helios, the legendary Greek god of the sun and light.
Opening hours
Open 24/7
I didn't enjoy this place at all. Trash everywhere, over-the-top neon lights, a crowd of tourists, and in the end, nothing notable to see. I have a hard time understanding why this neighborhood is often pointed out as a must-see. If you don't want to go shopping, there is no point in wasting your time here. I bought a few souvenirs and didn't feel like staying for dinner.