After walking through China Town I crossed Shaftesbury Avenue and went into Soho, which is long established as an entertainment district. Since the 1980s the area has undergone considerable transformation and is predominantly district of upmarket restaurants and media offices. It is also home of London's main gay village.
The French House on Dean Street only serves beer in half pints and is said to have hosted Charles de Gaulle during World War II. His speech rallying the French People, 'A tout les Francais' is said to have been written here.
Soho has always had a rich music scene. For instance, prominent Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club on Gerrard Street has been in operation since 1959 and has featured artists such as Chet Baker, Dianne Reeves, Stacey Kent, Katie Melua, Ella Fitzgerald and Price and it was also where Jimmie Hendrix played live for the last time.
Then on to Carnaby Street, now home to numerous fashion and lifestyle retailers including a number of independent fashion boutiques. It is, however, maybe most well known for being one of the coolest destinations associated with the Swinging London of 1960s as bands such as Small Faces, The Who and Rolling Stones appeared in the area to work, shop and socialise.
Before heading off at the Oxford Circus tube station we walked by Liberty, the luxury department store off Regent Street.
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