Old Compton Street in Soho

Old Compton Street is one of the best known streets in Soho. It dates to the 17th century and was named after Henry Compton, Bishop of London, who helped rebuild churches after the Great Fire. Over time it became a magnet for free thinkers, creatives and performers. By the 20th century it was a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, and it sits at the heart of London's gay culture to this day.

The street runs on theatres, independent cafes, bakeries and long-standing bars. The Prince Edward Theatre, just around the corner, brings in visitors from across the country. Flat White, one of London's most recognised coffee spots, helped shape the city's taste for third-wave coffee. Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club is technically on Frith Street, but its presence carries over here all the same.

Tottenham Court Road and Leicester Square stations are both a short walk away. Old Compton Street keeps pulling in visitors from all over the world, and there is no shortage of places along it worth stepping into.