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November 12, 2024
If you have never heard of Seven Dials or have never been there before, you are in for a treat! This area of London is full of surprises and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
What is this place? It would be difficult to sum it up in one simple sentence, so dig into our article to learn more about this great spot.
Seven Dials is a historic neighborhood dating back to the Stuart era, with its name derived from the seven streets that intersect there. This popular part of London among both tourists and locals alike is marked with a monument that features - surprisingly - six sundial faces.
Even though it was quite seedy in the past, it has since changed into a trendy neighborhood filled with indie boutiques, gourmet cafes, and creative ateliers. Everything from pizza and Asian food to craft alcohol and fancy pastries can be found in the area. There are also some theaters and lounge bars in Seven Dials, giving more choice to those looking to unwind after a busy day of city exploration.
The contrast between the historic buildings and bright, colorful courtyards and quirky shops gives Seven Dials a unique atmosphere that blends the past with the present. Many visitors staying at hotels close to Buckingham Palace also choose to explore this vibrant West End area.
Seven Dials is located in the Borough of Camden, in the St Giles district. It is an area in the West End of London and is well-connected with most major transportation hubs in London.
Some of the nearest tube stations are Covent Garden, Tottenham Court Road and Leicester Square, and the closest train station is Charing Cross.
Seven Dials is great for cycling, and you can rent a bicycle on Moor Street, Drury Lane, Earnshaw Street, and High Holborn. You can also walk, as the area is known as pedestrian-friendly.
Among the 90 stores located in the Seven Dials area, you will find a wide variety of shops. Big-name fashion boutiques, luxurious cosmetics, quirky home decor, and all that your heart desires can be found here. There are also plenty of independent stores run by London designers and artisans, offering unique items that you wouldn't find anywhere else.
If you're traveling with children, there are several stores where they can browse and find something they like, too.
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There are options for everyone in Seven Dials, regardless of whether one prefers casual street food or fine dining. The culinary scene is wide, and for most of the day, you can find at least several different restaurants and bars to choose from.
New eateries and pubs appear every now and then, so keep an eye out for the latest additions to Seven Dials - it might just suit your fancy! Just remember that on weekends, most of the food places are full, and it might be difficult to find a seat. Come earlier than you have originally planned to make sure you'll secure a spot.
Spending an evening in the area but not in the mood for eating or drinks? No problem! Seven Dials offers a variety of spots like live music venues, theatres, and comedy clubs.
Neal's Yard is a courtyard in between colorful houses, where performances and live shows are sometimes held. Additionally, you can venture further into Covent Garden for a wider choice of nightlife activities.
There is no dance club in Seven Dials, but you can find karaoke parties in several of the local bars. Those interested in more sophisticated music can check out the jazz and piano performances that often take place in the area.
If you are planning to stay in central London or a nearby area, you will find it easy to book lodging that suits your budget. Covent Garden boasts a wide range of hotels, and not necessarily only upscale ones. You can find less expensive places to stay if you are trying to save money, such as budget hotels or hostels. Some places also offer great deals and discounts - make sure to search for lower prices online before you book.
If you have some spare time during your trip to London, give the Seven Dials area a chance. This colorful and lively neighborhood full of shops and interesting eateries can charm you enough to make you want to return.
It is especially worth your time if you love browsing for unique items in boutiques or exploring the food scene in a new city. Or you can hop for a beer in an authentic London pub and spend the evening seeing a comedy stand-up show.
This cosmopolitan area is a great example of the cultural and aesthetic diversity of London, offering an atmosphere that is good for both a family lunch and a night out with friends. Make sure to visit this part of West End when you come to the city, and we can guarantee you won't be disappointed.
