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Chinatown is a great place to visit if you're looking for a taste of East Asian culture in the heart of London. You'll find plenty of delicious Chinese restaurants offering everything from traditional dim sum; Soft serve ice cream, trendy street food, bubble tea shops and Chinatown supermarkets. Chinatown is also home to the largest Chinese Gate in the UK, located on Wardour Street.
During Chinese New Year, you can see spectacular dragon dance performances in London's Chinatown, and there are often other events and cultural celebrations around Chinatown throughout the year. There is so much to see and do in Chinatown.
But if you've explored Chinatown and are now wondering what to do near Chinatown London, don't worry. I've got you covered.
Places to visit near Chinatown London
London Chinatown is a great place to start your exploration of the city. It is located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of some of London's most popular attractions. Here are 11 of the best things to do near Chinatown in London.
1. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a world-famous neighborhood in London with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The Duke of Bedford originally developed Covent Garden.
The current Covent Garden district is generally associated with the Royal Opera House, located at its western end. Covent Garden has a unique atmosphere with plenty of places to eat, drink, shop and people watch.
Neil's Yard is another popular spot in Covent Garden, and is known for its colorful architecture and array of shops. If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, Covent Garden is the perfect place to explore. It is one of the top places to visit near Chinatown.
2. Soho
Soho is one of the most popular areas of London and is only a short distance from Chinatown London. It is also home to some of the best theaters in the West End and is known for its lively nightlife scene and its abundance of bars and clubs.
Soho is also the center of London's LGBT+ community. From world-famous clubs like GAY to the iconic Rainbow Crossing on Old Compton Street, Soho celebrates diversity and inclusion.
Soho Square is a popular meeting point, and the surrounding area is always buzzing with activity.
If you're looking for things to do near Chinatown at night, Soho is a great place to visit.
Whether you dance the night away or simply explore one of London's most colorful neighbourhoods. Soho comes alive after dark.
3. Theatreland London
Theaterland London is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for fun things to do near Chinatown. Theatreland is often referred to as the heart of the West End.
Going to the theater is one of the top activities near Chinatown. It is the heart of the UK theater scene and a must visit for any stage fan. From world-famous West End musicals to cutting-edge drama, there's something to suit every taste.
And with over 50 theaters to choose from, Theatreland has more to offer than any other theater district in the world. It is also home to some of London's most iconic landmarks such as the Theater Royal Drury Lane and the Palace Theatre.
4. Leicester Square
Leicester Square is one of the busiest tourist spots in London. The square is constantly busy with tourists taking photos and enjoying the sights of artists.
It is home to M&M World and the largest Lego store on the planet with a two-story 200,000 brick model of Big Ben. Leicester Square is also the site of many movie premieres.
Leicester Square is also centrally located in London's West End, making it the perfect starting point for exploring other London attractions and neighborhoods.
5. Japan Center Leicester Square
The Japan Center in London is a large Japanese market in central London, a short walk from Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square Station. Established in 1976, Japan Center is one of the oldest and (Ichiba in Westfield London) operates the largest Japanese supermarket in Europe.
The Japan Center offers the traditional depachika (basement food hall) found in Japan. Here you can find high end grocery and takeout counters as well as a variety of Japanese snacks and desserts.
The store stocks a wide range of Japanese products including rice, noodles, seafood, sushi and sake.
The Japan Center also has a bakery, butcher, delicatessen and a wide selection of toys, books and home goods. The Japan Center is a popular destination for tourists and residents of London and is well worth a visit if you are interested in trying some delicious Japanese food.
6. Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is a world-famous intersection and public square located in the heart of London's West End. The area that Piccadilly Circus covers was originally farmland until it was developed in the early 1800s. Piccadilly Circus became known for its theatres, hotels and shopping and today is one of London's most popular tourist attractions.
Piccadilly Circus is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and the Statue of Eros.
The intersection is also a major transport hub, with Piccadilly Circus Underground Station serving as a major stop on the London Underground network. Piccadilly Circus is an iconic London landmark and a must-see for any visitor to the city.
7. Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square is one of London's most iconic landmarks, and has a long and interesting history. The square was designed to commemorate the British victory over the French and Spanish fleets at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1830.
At the center of the square is Nelson's Column – a 145-foot (about 50 m) tall marble column, guarded by four lions, which pays tribute to Admiral Lord Nelson, who was killed in battle.
The National Gallery is located near the square and is home to some of the world's most famous works of art.
Every year, Trafalgar Square hosts several festive events including Christmas in Trafalgar Square. This popular event features an enormous Christmas tree, live entertainment and a chance to meet Santa Claus. Whether admiring the architecture or taking in the festivities, Trafalgar Square is a must-see for anyone visiting London.
8. National Gallery London
The National Gallery is located north of Chinatown in London. The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square in the City of Westminster, founded in 1824. The National Gallery has a collection of the world's greatest paintings, including the world's most famous paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt van Rijn and Vincent van Gogh.
The National Gallery has a collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to 19th centuries. With 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to the 1900s, the National Gallery tells the story of European art from the medieval period to the late 19th century. The gallery is an institution of British culture and welcomes visitors from around the world.
The gallery is open daily, and free entry makes it a great place to visit near London's Chinatown.
9. St. Mary's Lane
St. Martin's Lane is a hidden gem in London, and the lane is a street in the City of Westminster that runs past the church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, from which it is named. Martin Lane is also a popular shopping destination in London, with many high-end shops near Chinatown.
It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a central location with easy access to all the best London has to offer. If you are looking for a place to stay in London, St. Martin's Lane is a great option.
The street is also home to the world famous St Martin's Lane Hotel, located in the heart of the West End, just a short walk from Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites, each with its own unique style and design.
St. Martin's Lane Restaurant is one of the best rated restaurants in London, offering a menu of modern European cuisine. And if you're looking for somewhere to relax and unwind, St Martin's Lane Spa is the perfect place with a range of treatments and facilities.
10. Buckingham Palace and The Mall
Buckingham Palace is one of London's most iconic buildings and has been the primary residence of the British monarchy since 1837. The Palace is located in the City of Westminster and consists of over 775 rooms including 19 staterooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms. 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms.
Buckingham Palace is open to the public most of the year, and visitors can tour the magnificent State Rooms and Great Halls and view the Royal Collection. Outside Buckingham Palace is The Mall, which was built like a giant red carpet leading up to the palace.
The mall is often used for royal parades and events and is a popular photo spot for tourists. After exploring London's Chinatown you should put a visit to Buckingham Palace and the Mall on your sightseeing list.
11. St. James's Park
St. James's Park is one of London's eight Royal Parks and a great place to visit when you're in London.
James Park is within walking distance of Chinatown and is a great place to explore after you visit Chinatown. The park is surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall. It covers an area of approximately 57 acres and includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade.
St James's Park also features the park's famous flower beds, fronting the lake and fountain views from Buckingham Palace, the Pelicans and St James's Cafe.
The famous pelican has lived in St James's Park for over 400 years and is one of the park's most popular attractions.
12. Berwick Street Market London
Berwick Street Market is one of London's oldest markets, dating back to 1778. This market is located in the Soho district of the city of Westminster. Berwick Street Market is a traditional fruit and vegetable market, offering a wide variety of fresh produce. In recent years, the market has also become a street food destination, with vendors serving up mouth-watering dishes from around the world.
Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a full meal, Berwick Street Market will truly have something to suit your taste. The market is open Monday – Saturday, 8 am to 6 pm. So if you're visiting London, check out Berwick Street Market for an authentic taste of the city.
This is just a quick list of the top places to visit in Chinatown London.
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