The History of Soho – From Hunting Grounds to a Hub of Immigrants, Artists, and Rebels
Soho was originally a hunting ground, and its name likely comes from the old hunting cry “So-ho!” In the late 17th century, the area began to develop into a densely built residential district. Over the decades, Soho became a vital part of London’s urban culture, home to immigrants, bohemian artists, musicians, and LGBTQ+ communities. In the 19th century, it was particularly known for its French and Italian migrant populations. During the 20th century, Soho emerged as a centre for entertainment, culture, and subcultures. Today, Soho is celebrated for its diversity and rich cultural heritage. It is an area where the past is still visible in its architecture and streetscape, evidenced by buildings of different eras, narrow historic streets, old pub façades and vintage signage.
Carnaby Street and Its Surroundings – Fashion, Heritage and Modern Culture
One of Soho’s most iconic locations is Carnaby Street. In the 1960s, it became a global fashion hotspot and a symbol of the Swinging London era. Today, it forms the heart of the wider Carnaby District, which includes Newburgh Street, Kingly Street and Ganton Street. The street is also known for its ever-changing annual Christmas lights, curated by Shaftesbury in collaboration with artists and local businesses. Past displays have included themes such as hope and community, supported by organisations like Choose Love. The area is packed with independent fashion boutiques, lifestyle shops and restaurants.
Liberty London – A Historic Department Store with Iconic Prints
Located just by the Carnaby area, Liberty London is one of the city’s most distinctive department stores. Designed by Edwin T. Hall in 1924, the building is a prime example of Tudor revival architecture, its façade made from timber salvaged from two decommissioned ships. Liberty is especially renowned for its own fabric prints with floral motifs and Art Nouveau-inspired designs. The fabrics have been a hallmark of the brand since the 1870s. Many of the patterns draw inspiration from nature, history and Eastern influences, and have been used by designers around the world. Inside, the store blends British craftsmanship, design and aesthetics in a visually captivating space, with timber staircases, leaded windows, bold floral displays and a refined yet eclectic atmosphere.
Regent Street – Architecture and Flagship Stores Linking Soho and Mayfair
Regent Street forms a boundary between Soho and Mayfair. With its sweeping curve and neoclassical architecture, it is one of London’s most elegant shopping streets. It’s home to flagship stores for major international brands such as Apple, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Nike Town, Mulberry and Anthropologie. The street also has historical significance and was laid out in the early 19th century by architect John Nash as part of an urban plan linking Regent’s Park to the St James’s area. On the eastern side, you’ll find Soho’s lanes and eateries; to the west, Mayfair’s refined addresses. Just around the corner, you’ll find Liberty London.
Street Art and Public Details – Murals, Sculptures, and Hidden Surprises
Soho feels like a living, ever-changing art gallery. One of its most well-known murals is Spirit of Soho, on Broadwick Street, which celebrates the area’s colourful history and notable figures. At the top is Saint Anne, holding open her skirt to reveal a map of Soho. Along the hem, you’ll spot historical characters like Karl Marx, William Blake, Casanova and opera singer Teresa Cornelys, all of whom shaped Soho’s cultural legacy. There are also references to its origins as a hunting ground, with depictions of hares and hounds. The mural is interactive: on the hour, parts of it come to life – Marx raises a cola can and Casanova blows a kiss to Cornelys.
Another public artwork is Walking Woman, a silhouette sculpture by Julian Opie, depicting a woman mid-stride in a minimalist graphic style. It reflects Soho’s ever-moving, ever-evolving spirit.
One of Soho’s more secretive art installations is part of the so-called Seven Noses of Soho. Originally created as a protest against CCTV surveillance, these small nose sculptures have become a quirky urban curiosity. They’re usually found on building walls, often just above eye level and spotting them requires a sharp eye.
Soho’s Café Culture – Classics, New Tastes, and Hidden Gems
Soho is a paradise for coffee lovers. The neighbourhood boasts countless cafés, ranging from traditional English tea rooms to trendy third-wave coffee bars with a focus on quality beans, origins, and brewing methods. A great example is Flat White on Berwick Street, which is one of London’s first third-wave cafés and credited with popularising the flat white drink in the city. Soho’s café scene is diverse and international. You can sip a cappuccino at a street-side table or grab a freshly baked pastry from a small hidden bakery.
Algerian Coffee Stores, founded in 1887, is one of London’s oldest coffee and tea shops, offering a wide selection of beans, loose-leaf teas and brewing equipment.
Among our favourite spots is Maison Bertaux, London’s oldest French patisserie, still enchanting visitors with handmade treats, located opposite a Harry Potter-themed experience shop. New cafés are also opening. Donutelier is known for its pastries and high-quality coffee, offering signature treats such as the Vanilla Raspberry or Carnaby Toffee Pudding. The latter is exclusively available at its Carnaby Street location. Another must-visit is Maître Choux, with display cases full of beautifully decorated éclairs and pastries. Another favourite is Bar Italia, a classic Italian café that’s been serving customers since 1949.
Dining in Soho – Global Flavours at the Heart of the City
Soho is one of London’s top dining destinations, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred experiences. The area features popular Italian trattorias, Japanese izakayas, vegetarian eateries and multicultural kitchens that reflect Soho’s rich immigrant history. Right next to Carnaby Street is Kingly Court, a three-storey covered courtyard bringing together over 20 independent restaurants, bars, and cafés. Its lively, welcoming atmosphere is ideal for lunch or dinner, with options ranging from Japanese ramen and Peruvian ceviche to baked goods and cocktails.
Soho as Part of London’s West End
Soho forms an integral part of the West End, London’s renowned district for theatre, culture and nightlife. While the West End isn’t an official administrative area, it’s a cultural and commercial heartland that also includes Covent Garden, Mayfair and Fitzrovia. Together, these areas make up London’s liveliest entertainment and shopping zone.
Things to Do in Soho – Sights, Flavours and Nightlife
Whether you’re into food, cafés or nightlife, Soho has something for everyone. Start your day with a walk through its historic lanes, enjoy a shopping spree on Carnaby Street, and pop into Liberty to admire its iconic prints. Stop for coffee in a characterful café, then head out for dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cosy izakaya. Culture lovers will find theatres, jazz bars and galleries – all within easy walking distance.
In Summary: Soho – A Vibrant Urban Playground
Soho is a place of history, art, fashion, food and music. If you want to feel the heartbeat of London, Soho is where it pulses loudest.
