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7 Ways You Can Spend Your Hard Earned Cash in London's West End

James Gould /
James Gould / | © Culture Trip

When payday hits, there’s nothing better than treating yourself to some fun in London, especially London’s West End, which is home to so many different types of entertainment from theatre shows to high-end dining. Here are seven ways you can spend your hard earned cash in the West End post-payday.

Shop On Carnaby Street

Located just moments away from Oxford Street, the busiest shopping street in London, Carnaby Street offers shoppers a selection of independent boutiques as well as popular flagship stores. Known for its charming side streets and quirky decor, the pedestrianised area is an absolute must for anyone looking to indulge in some payday shopping. The smaller scale makes it more intimate and less overwhelming for shoppers, compared to any other area of the city. If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, Kingley Court offers a wide selection of brilliant eateries so you can refresh and reboot before you continue shopping.

James Gould / © Culture Trip

Book a Reservation at The Ivy Soho

Loved by celebrities and locals alike, The Ivy Brasserie is the ultimate spot for a sophisticated dining experience, with its plush interior and formal ambience. The menu caters for all times of the day from brunch and afternoon tea to evening meals and cocktails; so whatever your stomach is craving, you won’t be left disappointed. While you indulge and absorb the decadent atmosphere, you’ll most likely see a few famous faces too – the ultimate payday treat!

James Gould /

Pay a Visit to Chinatown

Chinatown is one of London’s busiest areas, offering guests a huge selection of restaurants and activities. Home of the best authentic Chinese food in the city, it’s no surprise that many restaurants in the area often have queues running out the doors. Whatever your restaurant speciality preference – dim sum or a Chinese-style buffet – you’ll find traditional restaurant venues in Chinatown. You’ll also find a selection of cuisines from around the world, including Korean, Japanese, Malaysian and Vietnamese, as well European food.

James Gould /
James Gould /
James Gould /

Spend the Evening at the Cinema

Whether it’s date-night or just a night out with friends, sometimes you just can’t beat a trip to the cinema – especially if the weather is rotten. London’s West End has many great cinemas to choose from, including the likes of Curzon and Picturehouse.

James Gould /

Enjoy a West End Show

No trip to the West End would be complete without going to see a show. Whether you fancy watching a new musical, topical play or an all-time classic production, London’s West End will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to stage shows.

James Gould / © Culture Trip
James Gould /

Sample Some the West End’s Finest Restaurants

Whether you’re looking for a quick, pre-theatre dinner or wanting to indulge in an evening of exceptional drinks and food, London’s West End does not fall short when it comes to high-quality restaurants. From Michelin-star eateries to great independent restaurants, the area has a brilliant selection of spots for all budgets.

James Gould /
James Gould /

Stroll From Piccadilly Circus to Regent Street for Some Shopping

What better way to spend your paycheck than visiting one of London’s most famous shopping destinations, Regent Street. Packed full of popular high-street brands as well as luxurious designer labels, the street is payday paradise and can be pretty dangerous for any excitable shopper!

James Gould /
James Gould /

About the author

I’m a cheese-loving, gin-obsessed, dog enthusiast living in North London. I am constantly looking for new food spots and different activities to try and love writing about London culture. Read my blog for more travel content: https://lizzie-thomson.com . Or you can follow me on Instagram for mouth-watering pictures of delicious food: https://www.instagram.com/_lizziethomson/

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