Synonymous with central London, and especially famous for its nightlife and LGBT+ community, Soho is much more than its lively streets and vibrant bars. In fact, you won’t need to venture far during your time in London to have a good time.
Check out our guide of how to best spend your time here . . .
Where to stay . . .
Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.
If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There’s surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.
What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!
It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.
Where to shop . . .
Spread across several streets in Soho including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street, Shaftesbury’s Soho portfolio showcases 39 shops with plenty of independent boutiques, here are our top picks –
Sister Ray started as a humble record stall on Camden Market in the mid 80s and has steadily grown into one of London’s most iconic suppliers of quality, alternative vinyl and CDs. Set over two floors, you can expect the likes of the finest new releases alongside a huge range of classic albums and a superb selection of rare and second-hand vinyl.
A Day’s March is a Swedish clothing label with a three-story townhouse in the heart of Soho. The brand reflects their ambition to make clothes that get you through the triumphs and troubles of everyday life. Explore their classic menswear and womenswear collections of high-quality garments, featuring timeless designs for every occasion. You can also relax in their chill-out area post-shop. It’s just as cool as it sounds.
Aēsop specialise in fine quality products for skin, hair and body. Featuring both plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, Aēsop’s products only use those with a proven record of safety and efficacy. The Soho store combines a vast range of products with a modern and minimal design. Head in-store for a personal assessment from on-hand trained consultants, who can provide you with all your skincare answers whilst trying one of their season-appropriate samples.
Where to eat . . .
Discover 31 restaurants, bars and cafes across several Soho streets including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street. Here’s our favourite spots in Soho for some stylish sustenance . . .
Ember Yard
Specialising in dishes inspired by the amazing wood-fired grills of Spain and Italy, Head Chef Adam Kulikowski creates exceptional small and large sharing plates. No fuss. No fanfare. Just flavour. The restaurant is located in the heart of Soho over two floors, including an exciting downstairs space known as The Ember Bar, a slick area in which to indulge on small plates over their impressive cocktail list. Find yourself amongst an electric and buzzy atmosphere making it a perfect space to relax with a drink pre or post dinner.
The aim of the game here is to order a selection of small plates to share which will arrive as and when they’re ready. Their signature dish is the courgette flower which is just as delightful as it sounds, but other notable dishes include their soft shell crab burger, charcoal roasted scallops and prawn croquetas. Definitely try out a few different options from their cocktail menu if you can – they’re not only fun and inventive, but delicious, too.
emberyard.co.uk
Temper
One for meat lovers, this city spot near the shops of Carnaby Street is well worth a visit for those who appreciate great dining experiences. Temper is an ultra-modern and hip hangout that serves some satisfying and social dishes. Begin with creative snacks like the Caramelised Spicy Corn or starters like the Aged Beef Nachos or Beef Fat Cornbread with Gochujang Butter. The main event here is the selection of Barbecued smoked meats and seafood. Beef Brisket with Tajin in Paratha, Sweet & Sour Pork Rib and Chilli & Garlic Prawns all for your order.
Dine on a Sunday and indulge in their famous Sunday roast with a range of meats on offer. Expect enlarged Yorkshire puddings and comforting cauliflower cheese. The open kitchen makes for a theatrical dining experience while the space still feels intimate and cosy.
temperrestaurant.com
Read more about Soho over at thisissoho.co.uk
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