Shaftesbury Avenue

Shaftesbury Avenue is one of London's most famous thoroughfares, running through the heart of the West End theatre district. It stretches from Piccadilly Circus to New Oxford Street, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Lyric Theatre, the Apollo Theatre, and the Gielgud Theatre. The avenue is lined with a mix of historic and modern buildings, housing theatres, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It is a bustling pedestrian and traffic artery, especially lively in the evenings when theatregoers fill the streets. The area is known for its bright neon signs and the famous statue of Eros at Piccadilly Circus. Shaftesbury Avenue offers a quintessential London experience, blending culture, history, and urban energy.

Don't miss

• Catch a show at one of the historic West End theatres
• Walk from Piccadilly Circus to Cambridge Circus, taking in the neon lights
• Dine at a pre-theatre restaurant along the avenue
• Visit the nearby Chinatown for authentic cuisine
• Explore the side streets for hidden bars and shops

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Shaftesbury Avenue

Cheapest way inLondon: Harry Potter Movie Locations Magical Guided Tour4.9★ · 236 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$20 per personSee dates →Most bookedLondon Small Group Tour of Historical Pubs5★ · 11,277 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$40 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleWartime London Exclusive Walking Tour & Churchill War rooms Entry5★ · 79 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$139 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Book theatre tickets in advance for popular shows.
• Use the Tube to avoid traffic; stations are nearby.
• Many restaurants offer pre-theatre menus; book ahead.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking; the area is best explored on foot.

A bit of history

Shaftesbury Avenue was constructed in the late 19th century as part of a slum clearance and road improvement project. It was named after the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, a philanthropist and social reformer. The avenue quickly became a hub for theatres and entertainment.