Neighbourhood guide of Soho, Shoreditch & Covent Garden

When living in London, it’s often easy to forget how vibrant the city is. I found myself going to the places I was familiar with; rather than creating new experiences. So within this article, I’m going to present some of the forgotten gems of central London as well as some of the classics. 

Soho

Soho is an area of the City of Westminster and has been established as the ‘entertainment district’, dating way back to the 20th Century. It’s definitely not an area lacking in things to do. It's been hard, but I have picked the best of the bunch; 

Chinatown

Chinatown is one of the most historical locations in London, as it is a place where you are transported into another culture for a brief moment. Chinatown was born at the start of the 20th century when the Chinese population of London was concentrated within the area. The many Chinese restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets and business were opened to cater to the Chinese sailors who frequented in Docklands. It is one of the key landmarks which make Soho so iconic.   

Jazz Bar: Ronnie Scott’s

Regardless of your musical preferences, Jazz is a genre which everyone can appreciate. Ronnie Scott’s is a European vanguard for jazz and blues from world's top musicians, featuring an in basement club with a late bar. Saxophonist Ronnie Scott first opened the door to the small basement club in 1959, as a chilled location for local musician’s practise. Today, it’s has become one of the world’s most famous jazz clubs attracting full audiences of all ages, practically every night. Ronnie Scott’s is a personal favourite of mine and is definitely a place you must experience while in London.   

Crosstown Doughnuts

Crosstown Doughnuts began back in May 2014 as a market stall on Leather Lane. They specialise in sweet, handmade doughnuts made fresh every morning. Their landmark ‘Doughnut & Coffee Bar’ is located in the heart of Soho and offers 14 daily, handmade flavours. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a unique baked delight or simply looking for a quick coffee break away from Uni: Crosstown Doughnuts is the place for you.   

Shoreditch

Shoreditch is known as one of the most distinctive and unique areas of the East End. Its vast range of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and unique landmarks makes it the perfect location for a student in London. I will explore some of my favourite places in this unique location.  

Street Art

In London, we are used to experiencing art in prestigious, historical buildings, encased within grand exhibitions. However, in Shoreditch, the art experienced takes a unique form. The art is displayed all around you, on the streets, on the buildings and expressed in dynamic hubs. If visiting Shoreditch, you are guaranteed to be captivated by the surrounding Street Art. Some of my favourites artists are as following:   Located on Princelet Street, this piece of art was created by Global artist Stik:  representing the diverse culture of London.   This ironic piece is located on Rivington Street and was painted by none other than Banksy. 

Brick Lane Market

In the heart of the chaotic, bustling hub that is Shoreditch, is Brick Lane market. If you’re looking for anything thrift, second-hand or unusual; Brick Lane is the ideal place for you. Even if the indie style isn’t for you, the experience of Brick Lane if a must when in the Shoreditch area. The best part of this market is that you can never predict what you find; one thing that is guaranteed, though; is that you’ll definitely find something to cater to your interests. You can finish the day with an inexpensive Sunday lunch in one of the many ethnic restaurants around the area, including the iconic Bangladeshi curry houses.   

Boxpark

Shoreditch is a place overwhelmed with places to eat, but one of my personal favourite’s is Boxpark. Boxpark is essentially a shipping container/pop-up mall full of over sixty handpicked fashion brands and food and drinks retailers. The place is essentially a community packed with innovative, creative ideas placed back where they belong: on the street, away from the invasion of high priced, high street retailers; perfect for students. 

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is the vibrant home to London’s West End, where you can experience a merging of shopping, theatre, restaurants, history and culture.  

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is located within central Covent Garden and is one of the world’s oldest galleries dedicated to the art of portraiture. Many globally renowned and iconic paintings are displayed in this gallery. The Goldman Sachs sponsored Picasso exhibition is running until 5th February and displays over eight of his innovative artworks. 

Street Performers- The Piazza

Another must-see in Covent Garden is the variety of street performers who occupy the Covent Garden Market area: the Piazza. It’s an open-air cobbled area where miming, juggling and comedic acts can be found. The area was previously known as London’s fruit and vegetable market, but now is a home to the brilliant performance artists of London.   

Theatre

The area of Covent Garden is pretty much home to London’s West-End theatre. You will find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to the theatre; where performances range from drama, comedy, musicals, opera and ballet. Many theatres also offer student discounts which you should ensure to make good use of whilst studying! Here are some of my personal favourites: 
Matilda the Musical: Cambridge Theatre, running until October 15th, 2017 The Lion King: Lyceum Theatre, running until June 3rd, 2017 The Woman in Black: Fortune Theatre, running until September 23rd, 2017