Loud, glowing, bustling around the clock - Piccadilly Circus is one of the most recognizable places in London. Loved by some for its unique atmosphere, treated by others as chaos in its pure form - it is undoubtedly a place you must see with your own eyes.
Located in the heart of West End, Piccadilly Circus is much more than an intersection. It is a meeting point, a scene of street art, a transportation hub and a symbol of metropolitan energy. It is home to famous illuminated advertisements, the Shaftesbury Fountain (often mistaken for Eros), and nearby theaters, cinemas, galleries, stores and restaurants.
In this article, we will introduce the history of the square, its most interesting places, its role in culture and pop culture, as well as give tips on the best way to get here and what to see in the area.
1️⃣ History of Piccadilly Circus
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Piccadilly Circus Not only is it one of the busiest intersections in London, but it also urban icon With a history dating back to the early 19th century.
💠 Where did the name come from?
The name comes from the word piccadill - an ornate, lace collar popular in the 17th century. Their creator, Robert Baker, made a fortune and built a house in the area called the Piccadilly Hall.
Word circus in this context means circular - The original layout of the intersection was indeed circular in shape.
💠 Emergence and communication role
The square was designed in 1819 As a link between two important streets: Piccadilly and newly delineated Regent Street. From the beginning, he served as junction i representative urban space.
Over the years it has become a symbol of big-city hustle and bustle and the place where London's different worlds intersect.
💠 Development in the 20th century
W 1906 metro station opened Piccadilly Circus, and already in 1923 the first illuminated advertisements, which over time have become a landmark of the square.
All around, the following began to emerge cinemas, theaters and elegant stores, and Piccadilly quickly gained status as a center of entertainment and culture.
💠 Today's relevance
Today it is one of the London's most recognizable sites - bustling with tourists, street performers and urban energy. Piccadilly Circus is also classic meeting place i West End tour starting point.
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2️⃣ Shaftesbury Fountain and Eros
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It is this fountain with a winged statue that has become the most recognizable feature of Piccadilly Circus. Although often referred to as the "fountain of Eros", in fact its symbolism is somewhat different.
💠 Monument in memory of the Earl of Shaftesbury
The fountain was erected in 1893 in honor of Anthony Ashley-Cooper, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury - a well-known philanthropist and social reformer. He had a huge impact on improving the living conditions of the poorest in 19th-century London.
💠 Eros, which Eros is not?
The winged figure crowning the fountain is in fact not Eros, but his twin brother. Anteros, symbol altruistic love, selfless.
The colloquial name "Eros," however, has taken hold and continues to function today.
💠 Material and controversy
The statue was made of aluminum - was one of the The first monuments made of this material in the world, which caused quite a stir. Its modern form and naked figure were considered too bold at the time, and even indecent.
💠 Meeting place and photos
Today, the fountain is one of the most photographed places in London. It is also classic meeting place - easy to find and visible from any point in the square.
In the evenings, when it is illuminated, it gains a romantic and somewhat magic atmosphere.
3️⃣ Luminous ads - Times Square London
One of the most distinctive elements of Piccadilly Circus are huge, colorful illuminated advertisements, which for decades have given the square a modern and energetic character. It is thanks to them that the place has earned the nickname "London's Times Square".
💠 The origins of neon signs
The first lighted advertisement appeared on the building London Pavilion w 1923 - it was an advertisement for the brand Perrier. Since then, more and more companies have begun to invest in luminous presence At the square.
💠 Technological evolution
Over the course of the twentieth century, advertising has undergone an evolution - from classic neon signs, by LED screens, up to modern digital displays high resolution.
In 2017, the following were installed one giant curved screen, which replaced several smaller advertising spaces.
💠 Cult brands and recognition
From Piccadilly Circus, over the years the logos of such brands as Coca-Cola, TDK, McDonald's, Samsung whether Hyundai.
These advertisements have become pop culture symbol and the backdrop for countless films, photos and TV shows.
💠 A light that never goes out
The ads are almost never turned off - they only go off several times in history, among others, during World War II, national mourning whether climate campaigns.
This makes the place emanate around the clock with light, energy and movement, attracting tourists and Londoners alike.
4️⃣ Criterion Theatre
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Piccadilly Circus is not just an intersection and commercials - it's also a an important place for theater lovers. One of the most distinctive buildings on the square is the Criterion Theatre, or Kryterion.
💠 Historic theater underground
Criterion Theatre was opened in 1874 and is distinguished by a unique feature - most of its auditorium and stage are below street level.
Despite its underground location, the theater has been drawing crowds of spectators for years, offering a high-class comedy and drama performances.
💠 Architecture and interiors
The building was designed by Thomas Verity Victorian style. It delights elegant foyer, classical decorations and exceptional acoustics.
The interiors have been renovated several times, but always with attention to the original character and atmosphere of the 19th century.
💠 Repertoire and cultural significance
Both performed on the Criterion stage great stars of british theater, as well as new generations of actors.
Since the 1990s, the theater has been known primarily for its comedy performances, and his productions are popular with London audiences and tourists.
💠 Part of the Piccadilly spirit
Criterion Theatre, though hidden underground, is a an important part of Piccadilly Circus' identity - recalls cultural heritage this part of London and adds a theatrical soul to the square, contrasting with modern advertising screens.
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From the exciting Les Misérables, by a modern Hamilton, all the way to the dance craze in Mamma Mia! - these shows are more than performances. They are cultural phenomena that you need to see with your own eyes! 🤩
5️⃣ Piccadilly Circus as a landmark
For many tourists and Londoners Piccadilly Circus is not only a square, but also one of the most important landmarks in the entire city. Many walks begin here, many nights end here - it's a place that everyone knows.
💠 Heart of London
Piccadilly Circus is located in the heart of the district West End, between such famous places as Leicester Square, Regent Street, Soho i Trafalgar Square.
It is this location that makes the square A natural center of pedestrian traffic and public transport.
💠 Easily accessible from all sides
Beneath the square is one of the most important metro stations - the Piccadilly Circus Station, serving lines Bakerloo i Piccadilly. Thanks to this very easy to get here from any part of the city.
It's also an important bus and pedestrian hub - there's something going on here from every direction.
💠 Meeting place
Because of its recognition and central location, Piccadilly Circus has for years served as a the classic collection point - both for tourist groups and Londoners arranging to go to the cinema, pub or theater.
Typical slogan: "Let's meet under Eros". knows anyone who has visited London at least once.
💠 Indicative beacon of the city
Thanks to Luminous advertisements, landmark buildings and a fountain, Piccadilly Circus is like city signpost - It's impossible to miss it, and being here, you always know which way to go: shopping, gallery, performance or museum.
6️⃣ Meeting place and community events
Piccadilly Circus has for years served as London's iconic "town square" - An open, noisy space, accessible to all. Although it is not a square in the traditional sense, this is where people come together to celebrate, protest, play or simply observe the rhythm of the city.
💠 Meetings at any time of the day or night
The square is literally bustling with activity 24/7. During the day It is swarming with tourists, guides, students and office workers from nearby streets. In the evening street artists, West End youths and those who start the evening in clubs and pubs appear.
For many, it's simply A place to sit for a while on the steps of the fountain, eat something quick or talk to a stranger.
💠 Stage for social events and actions
Thanks to its visibility and symbolic status, Piccadilly Circus has become a A popular venue for demonstrations, protests and flash mobs.
From environmental and anti-war actions to performance and solidarity demonstrations, the square has repeatedly been an arena for spontaneous and planned social events.
💠 Street artists and spontaneous performances
Strolling through Piccadilly, you will often come across a musicians, mimes, dancers, acrobats, and sometimes even entire mini-shows.
This informal "street art venue" makes the square alive not only with traffic and light, but also with emotions and creativity of people.
💠 A symbol of the city's openness
Piccadilly Circus is microcosm of London - a place where different cultures, languages, styles and generations intersect. It is accessible to everyone, whether you are a local, a tourist or a casual passerby.
This openness and energy means that even a short stop on the square can become a part of a larger urban experience.
7️⃣ Traffic and atmosphere 24/7
Piccadilly Circus never sleeps. This is one of the few places in London where at any time of the day or night you can feel the pulse of the city - incessant, dynamic, a bit chaotic, but at the same time fascinating.
💠 An intersection of great importance
The square lies at the intersection of several important streets: Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, Coventry Street and Piccadilly. Because of this, he has always been one of the major transport hubs in central London.
Hundreds of vehicles, thousands of pedestrians and numerous double-decker buses form a living, moving mosaic every day.
💠 Throbbing energy around the clock
During the day, the predominant Tourists, office workers, guides and students on school trips. In the evening begin to prevail theatergoers, nightlife participants and street artists.
Piccadilly is not empty at night - the glowing screens, sounds from nearby bars and traffic make it square never loses momentum.
💠 Chaos controlled by urban planning
Although it may seem chaotic, the layout of the square and adjacent streets is the result of a thoughtful urban planning from the 19th century, adapted to the modern needs of the city. Traffic here is constantly monitored and guided, and pedestrians and drivers function in a strange but smoothly functioning symbiosis.
💠 The iconic noise of the big city
The sound of Piccadilly Circus is a separate story: horns, the din of conversation, the sounds of street performances, the sounds of the subway subway and the gentle hum of illuminated advertisements.
It's the sound modern London, which draws you in and mesmerizes you - sometimes tiresome, but never boring.
8️⃣ Piccadilly Circus in films and culture
Piccadilly Circus has for years been not only a symbol of London, but also a pop culture icon - has appeared in dozens of films, books, games and music videos. His recognition and atmosphere make directors and filmmakers eager to place the plot of their works here.
💠 Movie classic
The square has already appeared in silent cinema - among others in the film Piccadilly 1929.
In the following decades he can be seen in, among others:
▪ "Sweeney Todd" (2007),
▪ "Bridget Jones's Diary".,
▪ "28 Days Later". - In a desolate, post-apocalyptic version,
▪ whether in the adventures of James Bond, which repeatedly traveled around the square.
💠 Music and videos
Energie Piccadilly Music artists also take advantage of it. Among other things, the square is featured in music videos One Direction, Robbie Williams, as well as in iconic clips from the 1980s.
The lights and bustle of the square are the perfect backdrop for the modern urban narratives.
💠 Gaming and digital media
A virtual version of Piccadilly Circus has appeared, among others, in the series Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, as well as in several open-world games set in London.
The square also happens to be the backdrop in graphics, advertising spots, VR and 3D animations - its shape and LED screens are easily recognizable even in simplified form.
💠 The symbol of London in mass culture
Thanks to a constant media presence, Piccadilly Circus is more than just a place today - it's a visual shorthand for "London". As soon as he appears on the screen, you know where the action is taking place.
It's like Big Ben whether Tower Bridge - just more... electronic.
9️⃣ Attractions nearby - Leicester Square, Soho and more
One of the biggest advantages of Piccadilly Circus is its location - it's an ideal starting point for exploring the most vibrant parts of London. Within walking distance you will find everything from cinema premieres to alternative bars and luxury stores.
💠 Leicester Square - the king of cinema and red carpets
Just 2 minutes walk divide Piccadilly Circus from Leicester Square - London's center for movie entertainment.
It is here that the world movie premieres, and on a daily basis you can visit legendary cinemas like ODEON, Empire whether Vue.
In the park in the middle of the square you will also find sculptures of film characters - From Harry Potter to Mr. Bean.
💠 Soho - the district of culture, art and nightlife
To the northwest of the square stretches Soho - A colorful, multicultural neighborhood full of bars, clubs, galleries, cafes and off-site theaters.
This is the place where London underground meets pop culture, and the atmosphere can be both artistic and somewhat decadent.
💠 Regent Street and Oxford Circus - a shopping mecca
To the south of the square runs Regent Street - elegant avenue full of Brand-name boutiques, flagship stores and famous showcases.
Just 5 minutes walk, to reach Oxford Street - One of the most famous shopping streets in Europe.
💠 China Town - a culinary world within walking distance
A few hundred yards from Piccadilly you will find the entrance to the China Town - With distinctive gates, neon signs and dozens of asian restaurants.
It's a great place for a quick lunch, dinner after the theater, or shopping for exotic ingredients.
💠 Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery - for art lovers
If you move towards the southeast, in a few minutes you will arrive at the Trafalgar Square, where they are waiting:
▪ Nelson's Column,
▪ National Gallery With paintings by the masters,
▪ and St Martin-in-the-Fields Church.
This is a great option for a moment of culture and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
🔟 How to get there and when is the best time to go
👉 Find out how best to get around the city: Public transportation in London - 12 questions every tourist asks
Piccadilly Circus is one of the most easily accessible places in London - You'll get here without a problem no matter where you're starting from. But when is it worth going here? That already depends on what you are looking for.
💠 Access by subway - fast and convenient
Directly beneath the square is the Piccadilly Circus subway station, served by lines:
▪ Piccadilly Line - From Heathrow Airport, Covent Garden, King's Cross,
▪ Bakerloo Line - Connects north and south London.
The exits lead directly to the square - impossible to get lost.
💠 Access by bus and on foot
There are many passing through Piccadilly Circus day and night buses - including the famous storied "double-deckers."
If you are in the center, you can also just walk - From Leicester Square (2 min), Trafalgar Square (5 min), Oxford Street (10 min).
💠 When is the best time to visit?
▪ Morning - If you want to see the square in peace, without crowds.
▪ Afternoon - It's bustling, but still without the evening hustle and bustle.
▪ In the evening and at night - then Piccadilly shows its most spectacular face: glowing ads, crowds, music, energy.
At night it ideal place to start the evening In Soho or the theater.
💠 Tip for photographers
Sunset and late evening hours are best moment for photos - The lights of the ads take on their full power, with reflections bouncing off the wet pavement after the rain.
🟩 Summary
Piccadilly Circus is the essence of London's hustle, energy and culture. A place that combines history with modernity, architecture with advertising, art with everyday life.
It doesn't matter if it's your first time here or if you're coming back for the tenth time - it's not important. there is always something new going on here.
From Shaftesbury's fountain, to the lights of advertisements and the bustle of the street, to the surrounding attractions. Piccadilly Circus is a must-see on every tourist's map. And for many Londoners - simply part of life.
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