Despite being one of the world’s most famous shopping streets that’s stacked with big name flagships, there are also plenty of secret spots on Regent Street to uncover. From concealed cafes and speakeasy bars to lesser-known photo spots, learn more with our top tips.
Enjoy a shopping pick-me-up at various cafes hidden within stores along Regent Street. Among them, People’s Place at Tommy Hilfiger is the ideal space to rest up with a coffee and cake in stylish surrounds. This first floor hangout is also an ideal place for remote working, with wireless phone charging, wi-fi and sockets.
Capture the best views of the famous Curve
You simply can’t visit Regent Street without a few snaps of its glorious curve. For a unique view, secure front row seats on the top deck of one of London’s iconic red double-decker buses – numerous routes travel along the iconic street. At ground level, the best spots of the Regency terracing are when gazing back to Piccadilly Circus from outside Burberry, or towards Oxford Circus from the corner of Air Street or Piccadilly Circus.
Seek out secret shopping experiences
Heading to a party with not a thread to wear? Visit Rotaro on the first floor of Liberty London. This rental service allows you to pick items from top brands to use for up to 12 days – a sustainable way to mix up your look. Another win for the environment is Uniqlo’s RE:Uniqlo studio, where you can repair, reuse and recycle clothing.
Looking for something more personal? Let On running find your perfect fit for running trainers using its innovative technology or have your items monogrammed at H&M Home.
Discover a unique gaming space
Full of the latest must-haves in tech, the Microsoft Experience Centre also has a dedicated space where gaming rules. Bring your friends and get into your gaming mode at Xbox Gaming Lounge on the first floor, which includes the latest games, tournament zones and simulators.
Slip into secret bars in London
Accessible via a discreet entrance on Air Street, Hotel Café Royal’s speakeasy-style Green Bar is a small yet perfectly formed cocktail bar that serves up classic and contemporary creations. Or head underground beneath Heddon Street Kitchen to Hidden Heddon – the clue to its identity is in its name. If you’d rather be high up, far away above it all, boho-style rooftop bar The Nest at Treehouse Hotel London and Japanese-influenced Aqua Spirit are perfect hidden hangouts.
Listen to cabaret at The Crazy Coqs
Venture down the art-deco-style staircase of Brasserie Zédel and you’ll soon hear a buzz from the throngs of diners at brassiere ahead. But take a glance to the right, and you’ll see a door that leads you into The Crazy Coqs, an intimate haven of cabaret and crooners with live music and cabaret almost every night.
Keep an eye out for hidden history
Take time to spot the mosaics on the buildings on the façade of the Apple store – this colourful display is a legacy of Venetian glassmakers Salviati, who occupied the building in the 19th century. More modern (and equally as colourful) displays celebrate David Bowie, whose album cover Ziggy Stardust was shot in Heddon Street – spot artworks at The Starman and Ziggy Green and don’t miss the plaque commemorating Ziggy Stardust in Heddon Street.
Treat yourself to some covert pampering
In need of some secret “me time”? Don’t worry, we’ll not tell anyone where you can be found... Venture beneath Aesop’s flagship store and be ushered into hidden treatment rooms full of soft furnishings for a facial experience that is sure to soothe body and mind. Or get away from the world by visiting the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre, secreted beneath the Hotel Café Royal – make use of its 60ft pool with mood lighting and reviving sounds, treatment rooms and Hammam.
Discover more places off the beaten track with these walking routes in central London and free things to do in Regent Street