Leicester square movie mania
Lost tourists, busy streets and shameless ticket touts all add to the character of the entertainment hub that is Leicester Square - a pedestrianised square in the heart of London's West End - and the prefect venue if you're into films and clubs.
Last year, Tom Cruise - while attending a movie premier - almost caused a riot when he went on a two-and-a-half walkabout to meet his fans there.
Movie Mania
This is cinema land and the number one location in London for movie premiers such as the James Bond films and animation hits like Skrek. The Square also co-hosts the annual London film festival.
If you like your cinemas big then the Odeon cinema (the word 'Odeon' is Italian and originates from the Roman Empire. It was a small theatre where poets and actors would perform, in case you were wondering.) with over 1900 seats is a must and is best experienced with a capacity audience.
On the north side of the square, you'll find a small piece of Las Vegas in the form of the Empire cinema and Casino (over 1300 seats). Just down from the Empire is the 9 screen multiplex Vue. If you don't want to pay premium prices then visit the cult Prince Charles cinema a former porn studio now famous for its cheap ticketing policy and regular showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show and a sing-a-long version of the Sound of Music.
The Tramp In The Gardens
In 1630 Robert Sidney - the 2nd Earl of Leicester and whom the square is named after - purchased some prime London land and built a large house with garden. Today nothing remains of his house though part of his garden does and this can be found in the centre of the square. Charlie Chaplin, the famous mime and clown best known for his movie roles as the gentleman tramp (he also used to perform at Leicester Square music hall before going to Hollywood), has a statue there. So too does William Shakespeare (surrounded by dolphins) while the four corner gates of the park host one bust each of Sir Isaac Newton (scientist); Sir Joshua Reynolds (1st president of the Royal Academy); John Hunter (surgeon) and William Hogarth (painter).
Have A Great Night Out 7 Days A Week
For an equal ratio of girls to guys, R&B plus the latest chart hits then the Metra is worth a look. This club features a small, atmospheric dance floor with a VIP room out the back. The drinks tend to be expensive though they do have mid-week promotions.
Sound www.soundlondon.com considered by some to be a high class club for low class revellers - is huge. It has 5 separate areas (including the Ivory Room which overlooks Leicester Square) spread out over three floors. The R&B music guarantees to give you a dance floor workout. The stunning aesthetics and breathless London views make this an unforgettable night out.
Storm www.stormlondon.co.uk offer live music every Thursday and Friday, have an impressive portfolio of house DJs in addition to hosting the comedy 99 Club featuring some of Britain's most famous comedians.
Food For Thought
There are many bars and restaurants around the square. A favourite of mine is Bar Fudge where, at certain times they give you free fries and quality coffee for a pound. This is a stylish place serving light snacks and meals at reasonable prices (unusual for Leicester Square) and classic cocktails.
The Hampshire Hotel has an elegant outdoor café perfect for capturing the atmosphere of Leicester Square over a cappuccino or two.
An Alpine Experience
For a quirky experience stand outside the Swiss Centre (it used to house a Swiss Bank) in the North East corner of the Square on the hour. An elaborate mechanical clock suddenly springs into action with chiming bells. A small hatch in the building opens and out pop slowly rotating, ornamental Lederhosen clad figures with milk girls and cows. Keep an eye out for pick pockets.