Charing Cross Road (solo trip)

Specialist Bookshop Trail:

Walk from Leicester Square to St Giles exploring Foyles, Quinto Bookshop, Henry Pordes, Any Amount of Books and Cecil Court’s rare print shops.

Tip: Check each shop’s opening hours and ask staff for hidden or rare editions.

Coffee at The Crypt Café:

Enjoy a coffee or light snack in the vaulted crypt under St Martin-in-the-Fields while reading or people-watching.

Tip: Aim for mid-morning to avoid the lunch rush and grab a table by the exposed brick walls.

Stroll in Phoenix Garden:

Slip behind the Phoenix Theatre to find this small community garden with benches, flowers and occasional art events.

Tip: Enter via Flitcroft Street and look for signs of pop-up summer barbecues or exhibitions.

National Gallery Quick Visit:

Pop into the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square to see a few favorite masterpieces in under an hour.

Tip: Join a free 15-minute talk near the main hall to learn key artwork stories.

West End Theatre Ticket:

Buy a day-of rush ticket for Garrick or Wyndham’s Theatre to see a play or musical on Charing Cross Road.

Tip: Visit the box office after 2 pm for same-day deals and flexible seating.