Is Soho a good place to stay in London?

Soho is one of the most central and lively places you can stay in London. Theatres, Chinatown, Carnaby Street and Oxford Street are all within walking distance, and Tottenham Court Road, Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square stations are close by. It suits night owls, theatre-goers and food lovers on a short city break who care more about location than room size.

The area is packed with restaurants, bars and cafés, more per street than anywhere else in London. You'll find everything from counter-seat tapas and dim sum to old espresso bars and jazz clubs, all on narrow, busy streets. Soho Square and Greek Street are a little calmer, and Fitzrovia, just north of Oxford Street, is quieter still.

The downside is the noise. Soho stays busy until late, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, so light sleepers should ask for a room at the back or on a high floor. Rooms tend to be small for what you pay, and it isn't the easiest area if you're travelling with young children.

What makes Soho special is the sheer choice right outside your door. You never need to plan where to eat or drink, because there's always somewhere new around the corner, and a West End show is only a short walk away. For a short, busy trip where you want to be in the middle of everything, it's hard to beat.