If you’re thinking about hitting up Soho for a night out, good choice. You’ve got everything there.
Old-school pubs that have been around forever, cool cocktail bars tucked away down random side streets, clubs that go on forever, and loads of live music spots. It’s been the place where creative types hang out for ages, musicians, writers, all sorts.
And the best thing about Soho is that everyone’s welcome there. Doesn’t matter if you’re straight, gay, local, tourist, rolling in cash, or counting pennies, there’s something for you.
Is Soho, London A Good Night Out Spot?
It’s not called the heart of London nightlife for nothing. The place has proper character and history behind all the madness.
It’s LGBTQ+ friendly, which gives the whole vibe of acceptance and fun.
You could be having a quiet drink in some tiny jazz bar one minute, then end up in a packed club or watching an amazing drag show the next.
Types Of Nightlife Experiences In Soho
Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s always something good for you. It’s like having every type of night out rolled into a few streets. That’s why everyone always ends up there.
Check out the top bars, pubs, clubs, live shows, budget options, and queer friendly spots for a happening nightlife in Soho, rated as per our own experience.
Bars And Pubs In Soho
- Coach & Horses Soho (4.3/5)
This is a proper old school pub. Been around forever and has all these stories about writers and artists who used to drink there. They do piano sing-alongs, and it’s got that classic pub feel.
- More Details: The Coach & Horses
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: People love Classic interiors, nostalgic atmosphere, friendly locals, and immersion in “old Soho”
- The Vault (4.5/5)
This is hidden behind a bookcase! Proper speakeasy vibes with amazing cocktails. It’s underground and has live music sometimes.
- More Details: THE VAULT SOHO
- Budget: £20–30 per person
- What people like about this place: It has a Secretive speakeasy feel, creative cocktails, attentive staff, with a calm but trendy setting.
- The Devonshire (4.7/5)
This is Soho’s most buzzed-about new pub. It has beautiful interiors, a stellar Guinness pour, and a renowned grill room upstairs. The classic British comfort offering gastro excellence.
- More Details: The Devonshire
- Budget: £15–30 per person
- What people like about this place: Stunning decor, quality food, standout Guinness, relaxed yet lively vibe.
- The George Soho (4.5/5)
Another old Victorian pub with beautiful woodwork and glass. A solid selection of beers and ciders, which makes it perfect for a proper pint and a chat.
- More Details: The George Soho
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: Authenticity, historic feel, well-kept ales, friendly service
- Waxy O’Connor’s London (4.4/5)
Massive Irish pub with live music and Guinness. It’s got multiple floors and can get pretty lively. The labyrinthine layout makes it perfect for big groups, sports fans, and anyone chasing a lively pint.
- More Details: Waxy O’Connor’s London
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: Friendly crowd, live bands, quirky interior, great Guinness
Clubs And Dance Venues In Soho
- Soho Residence (4.3/5)
Chic, multi-level club blending Regency elegance and club energy—lounge bars, rooftop terrace, and a stylish main floor with popular DJs and atmosphere.
- More Details: Soho Residence
- Budget: £20–40 per person
- What people like about this place: Diverse music, rooftop, crowd mix, stylish atmosphere
- The Box Soho (4.0/5)
It is an exclusive club with late-night performances, and it is also famous for decadent interiors and A-list clientele. This place has wild and theatrical energy throughout the nights.
- More Details: The Box Soho
- Budget: £30–60+ per person
- What people like about this place: Unforgettable cabaret, high-energy nights, risqué vibe, celebrity appeal
- Club 49 Soho (4.1/5)
A lively basement club known for its signature cocktails. It also has resident DJs, and energetic Friday/Saturday parties. These are intimate but full-throttle with a great dance atmosphere.
- More Details: Club 49 Soho
- Budget: £20–30 per person
- What people like about this place: Good drinks, small but fun dancefloor, friendly atmosphere
Live Music, Cabaret, And Comedy Shows In Soho
- Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club (4.7/5)
Ronnie Scott’s is a haunt for world-class jazz and blues. It has been hosting global stars and new talents in an intimate, classic setting since 1959, with superb acoustics.
- More Details: Ronnie Scott’s
Budget: £40–80 per person - What people like about this place: Live jazz, iconic vibe, superb sound, musical history
- PizzaExpress Jazz Club Soho (4.5/5)
It is a renowned basement jazz club with nightly acts. It has affordable dining with excellent value for money and atmosphere. The place is intimate, casual, and always has high-quality music.
- More Details: PizzaExpress Live Soho
Budget: £20–40 per person - What people like about this place: Value, approachable jazz, up-close gigs, combo of food and live music
- The Spice of Life (4.4/5)
It’s a classic pub with an arty crowd. Additionally, it has a backroom stage for jazz, rock, folk, and open-mic nights. This place combines Soho’s grassroots music with community spirit.
- More Details: The Spice Of Life
Budget: £10–20 per person - What people like about this place: Variety, community vibe, walk-in live music every week
- Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues Bar (4.6/5)
Most beloved for nightly high-energy blues and open-mic jams. This one has raw, packed, authentic music sessions with passionate regulars and international acts that are regularly performing.
- More Details: Ain’t Nothin’ But…
Budget: £10–20 per person - What people like about this place: Intimate gigs, international acts, passionate regulars, cheap entry
- O’Neill’s Wardour Street (4.4/5)
Massive, three-level pub with nightly live bands, big crowd, and a party-first vibe—great for group fun and live tunes with legendary music heritage.
- More Details: O’Neill’s Wardour Street
Budget: £15–25 per person - What people like about this place: Legendary live music heritage, affordability, dancefloor, crowd energy
And if you’re a student trying not to blow your entire loan in one night, there are cheaper spots too.
Student and Budget-Friendly Soho Nights
- Thirst Bar Soho (4.3/5)
It is a student magnet famous for two long happy hours (“stupid hour”). It has affordable cocktails and a dancey late-night basement. Your fun, wallet-friendly party starter venue.
- More Details: Thirst Bar Soho
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: Inexpensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, lively DJs, group-friendly
- Simmons Bar Soho (4.6/5)
Colourful décor, famous cocktail teapots, and five-hour happy hour—party vibes with app deals and student offers creating affordable fun nights out.
- More Details: Simmons Bar Soho
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: Cheap, cheerful, party-focused, nightly events, beloved by students
- The Roxy (4.4/5)
Spotlighting giant happy hours, student nights, discounted entry, mainstream tunes, and a packed dance floor—it’s a perennial student classic venue choice.
- More Details: The Roxy
- Budget: £10–20 per person
- What people like about this place: Cheap drinks, themed parties, welcoming team, lively crowd
LGBTQ+ Nightlife and Inclusive Experiences
- Village Soho (4.6/5)
One of Soho’s original LGBTQ+ bar-clubs—three floors, go-go dancers, drag shows, and packed dancefloors, perfect for energetic, diverse nights out.
- More Details: Village Soho London
- Budget: £15–30 per person
- What people like about this place: Welcoming crowd, regular events, inclusive vibe
- The Yard Bar (4.4/5)
Leafy courtyard, lofted interior, classic cocktails, and a relaxed, convivial LGBTQ+ crowd—great for summer socials or chill evenings with outdoor seating.
- More Details: Yard Bar
- Budget: £10–25 per person
- What people like about this place: Outdoor seating, summer hangouts, fun crowd, music
Why Is Soho So Popular?
Soho is one of the finest districts in London. It never gets old. In the old days, all the jazz-loving people used to hang out at places like The Vault and Ronnie Scott’s, which are still there.
The amazing part is that it keeps changing, but somehow stays true to itself. It started as this artsy, bohemian place. It’s a mix of old-school charm and brand new spots. Everyone feels welcome in Soho, which is pretty rare for such a famous area.
Planning Your Night Out In Soho London
Regardless of everything, you need to remember these things to keep your trip or weekend hassle-free and worth remembering:
Reservations & Peak Times
- Book ahead for popular venues.
- This is especially important on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Arrive before 7 PM for easier entry.
- Early arrival often means avoiding cover charges.
- Most places operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dress Codes & Entry Policies
- Most Soho venues are casual about dress codes.
- Fancier clubs prefer smart-casual attire. But nothing too formal.
- Always bring a valid photo ID.
- They check everyone regardless of age.
- Some exclusive venues have guest lists. They might have membership requirements.
Is It Safe To Walk In Soho At Night?
Soho is one of the safest places with people around everywhere, and usually, the police are around. But here is what to look out for to stay safe:
Safety Tips
- Stick to the busy streets, and avoid dark alleys
- Go with friends if you can, especially late at night
- Keep an eye on your drink and never leave it sitting around
- Don’t flash your cash or expensive stuff
- Use proper taxis or Uber for getting around
- If something feels off, just head to where there are more people
Most people have a great time in Soho without any problems. The whole vibe there is pretty welcoming and friendly.
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Conclusion: Soho Offers London’s Most Iconic Nightlife
There are so many places like The Vault, Ronnie Scott’s, The Devonshire, and many more to spend a perfect night out in Soho.
Many places are budget-friendly, and the overall environment is safe, so you can have fun without risking your wallet or yourself.
Ready to check it out? Book ahead for the places you want to try, and get ready for an awesome night in London’s best party district!
FAQs
Not really, maybe one or two, but most of them are gone. Soho’s way more mainstream now with regular bars, restaurants, and entertainment.
It’s in the center with incredible food, a great nightlife, and open-minded, which makes it a pretty good district in London.
Amazing bars, live music, incredible restaurants, great LGBTQ+ spots, and this cool, creative history that goes back forever.
Most bars wrap up around midnight on weeknights. But clubs stay open until 3 or 4 AM, especially on weekends. Some places have even later hours when it’s busy.
Not anymore. It’s family-friendly during the day, and at night, it’s just regular nightlife.
Not really. The whole red light activities are gone. Now it’s all about legit nightlife, entertainment, great food, and cultural stuff.
I started my career as a chef at The Vault Soho, where I learned the art of creating amazing dishes and paying attention to detail. Over time, I discovered my love for writing and decided to share my knowledge and ideas with a wider audience. I often explore topics like gaming tips and trends in the casino industry. When I’m not writing, I love trying out the latest tech, spending time outdoors, and experiencing different cultures.
