Leicester Square is a pedestrianised square at the heart of London's West End in the City of Westminster, and the traditional home of UK film premieres. Its landmark cinemas (Odeon Leicester Square, Cineworld/Empire and Vue) host dozens of red-carpet premieres a year, while the central garden holds a Shakespeare fountain, a Charlie Chaplin statue and a trail of movie-character sculptures. In 2026 a large redevelopment (the LSX scheme by Soho Estates) is moving through consultation, but the square remains fully open and makes a lively hub within walking distance of Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus.
The 'Scenes in the Square' film-character sculpture trail featuring Paddington, Harry Potter, Batman, Mary Poppins, Mr Bean and more
The central Shakespeare fountain and the 1981 Charlie Chaplin statue in the garden
Historic premiere cinemas such as the Odeon Leicester Square and the red-carpet atmosphere
The Official London Theatre Ticket Booth (former TKTS) in the clocktower building for same-day and advance discount tickets
Flagship stores including the world's largest LEGO Store and M&M's World, plus cult screenings at the Prince Charles Cinema
Good to know
SafetyThe square and surrounding Tube are known pickpocket spots given the constant crowds and street performers, especially at night and weekends. Keep bags zipped and worn in front and your phone in an inner pocket.
CautionWatch for performers who ask for money after a photo, illegal shell/cup gambling games on the pavement, and fake charity clipboard collectors. Decline and keep walking.
CautionBuy theatre tickets only from the official clocktower booth or the venue's own channels; street touts and resellers around the square risk overpricing or fakes.
MannersStand on the right on escalators and leave the left clear, and check whether a service charge (often 12.5%) is already on your restaurant bill before adding a tip.
RulesPay for transport by tapping an Oyster card or a foreign-enabled contactless/mobile card; the garden stays open in the evening, but avoid the busiest, drink-heavy late-night crowds.
SeasonLondon is often wet with cool evenings even in summer, so bring an umbrella and a layer. Expect big crowds during the BFI London Film Festival in October and the winter Christmas market and funfair.
Practical info
Leicester Square Tube station (Piccadilly and Northern lines) is about a one-minute walk, and Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden and Charing Cross are also within walking distance (Night Tube runs Friday and Saturday nights). The garden is a free public space; check cinema, ticket-booth and any redevelopment-related opening times and prices on official sites before you go.
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