Lifestyle

Things to do in Piccadilly Circus at night for first-time visitors

picadilly circus
picadilly circus at night

Although Oxford Street is famous for sprawling department stores and global high-street brands, nearby Piccadilly Circus remains home to interesting boutiques, niche shops and classic London landmarks. For first-time visitors exploring London evening walking tours or Piccadilly Circus nightlife, the area offers photo moments, local bars, theatres, and a vibrant atmosphere long after sunset.

1. Night photo spots in Piccadilly Circus

Iconic illuminated digital billboards

  • Address: Corner of Regent Street and Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly Circus
  • Opening hours: Always visible after dusk; area accessible 24h.
  • Price: Free to view

Piccadilly Circus features massive LED screens and neon signs on the historic corner building. These illuminated displays have defined the area for over a century and give it a unique “London-Times Square” feel at night. It makes a great backdrop for photos and captures the city’s electric energy after dark.

Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain

  • Address: South-eastern side of Piccadilly Circus (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
  • Opening hours: Accessible anytime (public space)
  • Price: Free to view
  • Vibe: Historic, peaceful, atmospheric

The Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, erected in 1892–93, commemorates the philanthropic works of Anthony Ashley‑Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury. Its sculpted form casts soft reflections in the night lights and provides a quieter contrast to the bustling Circus. Many visitors pause here to sit on the steps and watch city life drift by under floodlights.

Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain

Statue of Eros

  • Address: Atop the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, Piccadilly Circus
  • Opening hours: Always visible at night
  • Price: Free

The statue often referred to as Eros (Anteros) statue is really a representation of Anteros. Its nocturnal silhouette against the neon backdrop makes it a top photo spot and a popular meeting point for locals and travelers alike. The historic aura and the lively surroundings combine to create a memorable London night experience.

Regent Street

  • Address: Begins at Piccadilly Circus, runs north from the square
  • Opening hours: Always open (note: Shops may close earlier, but street remains accessible at night)
  • Price: Free to explore
  • Vibe: Elegant, bustling, urban stroll

Wandering up Regent Street from Piccadilly Circus offers a pleasant night walking tour. This famous street in London keeps much of its Georgian-era charm and picks up modern energy under streetlights and shop fronts. It’s a solid route for visitors who want to combine shopping, architecture and a relaxing stroll under urban glow.

2. Nighttime activities in Piccadilly Circus

Bar Rumba

  • Address: 36 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EP
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: 0.1 miles
  • Opening hours: Typically 6 PM – 3 AM
  • Price: Entry from £10–£20; drinks additional
  • Vibe: Energetic, club-style, youthful

Bar Rumba is one of several dance-club style venues near Piccadilly Circus and Soho. Visitors often enjoy its energetic atmosphere and proximity to the Circus neon lights, making it a good warm-up or late-night stop. The lively vibe and central location appeal to travelers wanting to dive into London nightlife quickly.

London Pub Crawl

For visitors hoping to experience multiple bars or clubs in Central London in one night, the organised Central London Pub Crawl offers a lively, budget-friendly option. It gives a taste of central London nightlife, helps meet new people, and ends up at a final club. This is a good choice for first-time night explorers.

Simmons Bar Piccadilly Circus

This cocktail bar near Regent St offers 2-for-1 deals during happy hour and a DJ-backed dance atmosphere later in the night. Its neon interiors and central location make it a go-to spot for inexpensive drinks and club vibes without traveling far. It suits visitors seeking a fun, easy night out in the heart of London.

Waxy O’Connor’s

The Waxy O’Connor’s offers a multi-level Irish pub experience with several bars under one roof, live music and a friendly vibe. Its labyrinth layout and casual atmosphere make it ideal for a relaxed, fun night out or a group gathering. The variety from food to live sport and music — gives flexibility for many kinds of visitors.

 

 

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3. Catch a show in Piccadilly Circus at night

Criterion Theatre

  • Address: 218-223 Piccadilly, London W1J 9HR
  • Opening hours: Performance evenings; historic theatre building
  • Price: Depends on show (West End theatre ticket)
  • Vibe: Cultural, classic, theatrical

The Criterion Theatre is a classic West End venue with a capacity of about 588 seats. Built in 1874, it offers a historic theatre experience just steps from Piccadilly Circus. For first-time visitors, catching a show here brings a taste of London’s theatre tradition without travelling far from the night action.

Jermyn Street Theatre

  • Address: 16b Jermyn Street, London SW1Y 6ST (about 2 mins from Piccadilly Circus tube)
  • Opening hours: House opens ~20 mins before each performance
  • Price: Theatre ticket price (varies)
  • Vibe: Intimate, artistic, off-beat

The Jermyn Street Theatre is a small, off-West End theatre with a cosy and creative atmosphere. It offers an alternative to large-scale productions, ideal for visitors wanting a more intimate and unique theatre experience. It’s a good match for first-time night visitors who appreciate culture but prefer something quieter.

MORE THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN CENTRAL LONDON

Nice places for dinner in Piccadilly Circus (and nearby)

Faros Restaurant

Faros Restaurant blends contemporary decor with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, creating a welcoming space for a relaxed date night. Its menu focuses on fresh flavours, grilled dishes and generous sharing plates that suit couples looking for a slightly upscale but unpretentious dinner. The soft lighting and polished interior give it the vibe of a romantic date while staying accessible for first-time visitors exploring the area after dark.

 

 

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Pahli Hill & Bandra Bhai

  • Address: 79-81 Mortimer St, London W1W 7SJ
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: ~0.8 miles
  • Opening hours: 12 PM – 3 PM; 5 PM – 10 PM (Sun: Closed)
  • Price: £29 per person
  • Vibe: Creative, intimate, stylish

Pahli Hill offers regional Indian dishes crafted with thoughtful detail, ideal for couples who enjoy vibrant flavours in an elevated setting. Downstairs, Bandra Bhai adds a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with dim lighting and retro Mumbai charm perfectly for extending the evening. Together, they create a two-part date: refined dinner upstairs, atmospheric drinks below, appealing to visitors wanting something distinctive near central London.

 

 

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Shoryu Ramen

  • Address: 3 Denman St, London W1D 7HB
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: 0.07 miles
  • Opening hours: Open at 11:30 AM until 10–11 PM
  • Price: £15–£25 per person
  • Vibe: Warm, cosy, intimate

Shoryu Ramen provides a comforting, steam-filled atmosphere ideal for a laid-back evening. Known for its tonkotsu broth and compact dining room, it’s a popular option for couples wanting something hearty and calming after a busy night in the West End. The cosy setting makes it especially appealing during cooler evenings.

 

 

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Flat Iron

  • Address: 17 Beak St, London W1F 9RW
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: ~0.3 miles
  • Opening hours: Open at 11:30 AM until 11 PM
  • Price: £15–£30 per person
  • Vibe: Stylish, warm, great value

Flat Iron stands out for its high-quality steaks offered at accessible prices, making it ideal for a relaxed but polished date night. The interior lighting and wooden décor create a warm ambience, while the focused menu keeps the experience stress-free. Couples who enjoy great food without formality will appreciate its simplicity and value.

 

 

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Nando’s Glasshouse Street

  • Address: 46 Glasshouse St, London W1B 5DR
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: ~0.2 miles
  • Opening hours: Open at 11:30 AM until 10 PM
  • Price: £12–£20 per person
  • Vibe: Casual, energetic, friendly

Nando’s delivers a familiar and easygoing dining experience with its peri-peri chicken and quick service style. The colourful setting and reliable menu make it ideal for couples who want a no-pressure dinner before heading into Soho or catching a late-night performance. It’s informal but lively, fitting Piccadilly’s upbeat energy.

The Ritz Restaurant

  • Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: ~0.3 miles
  • Opening hours: Typically open for dinner until late
  • Price: £100+ per person
  • Vibe: Luxurious, formal, classic

Dining at The Ritz offers an iconic London experience, ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion. The opulent dining room, white-glove service and strict dress code create a refined evening rooted in tradition. It offers the most luxurious romantic atmosphere near Piccadilly Circus, perfect for a memorable night.

 

 

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Bun House Chinatown

  • Address: 26–27 Lisle St, London WC2H 7BA
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: 0.3 miles
  • Opening hours: Often until 10–11 PM
  • Price: £10–£20 per person
  • Vibe: Trendy, intimate, casual-modern

Bun House blends simplicity with style through its steamed buns, small plates and softly lit interiors. It suits couples seeking a casual but slightly off-beat dinner near the heart of Chinatown. Its compact space creates an intimate feel, making it a charming, wallet-friendly pick for first-time visitors.

 

The Wolseley

  • Address: 160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB
  • Opening hours: Dinner service typically until 11 PM
  • Price: £30–£60 per person
  • Vibe: Elegant, classic, sophisticated

The Wolseley offers a grand European-style brasserie experience with art-deco charm and thoughtful service. Its polished atmosphere makes it excellent for couples who want a refined evening without the formality of luxury dining. Many visitors pair this dinner with a West End show or a night walk back toward Piccadilly Circus.

 

 

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Blacklock Soho

  • Address: 24 Great Windmill St, London W1D 7LG
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: ~0.2 miles
  • Opening hours: 12:00 PM- 11:00 PM
  • Price: £15–£35 per person
  • Vibe: Rustic, cosy, hearty

Blacklock is known for its chops and sharing plates, served in a basement space that feels intimate and relaxed. The warm lighting and friendly service create a comfortable environment for couples who enjoy rich, flavourful meals. It’s a satisfying stop after an evening exploring West End London night attractions.

 

 

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Fallow

  • Address: 52 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4RP
  • Distance from Piccadilly Circus: 0.1 miles
  • Opening hours: Generally until 10–11 PM
  • Price: £25–£50 per person
  • Vibe: Contemporary, creative, refined

Fallow offers a modern dining experience with strong sustainability principles and inventive dishes. Its stylish interior design and thoughtful cooking appeal to couples looking for a contemporary date-night spot. Because it sits just steps from Piccadilly Circus, it’s easy to pair with nightlife, theatre or a post-dinner stroll.