Easter in Soho

If you're in London over Easter, base yourself in Broadwick Soho.

It's one of the few parts of the city where you don't need much of a plan. Everything happens within a few streets - and anything else is an easy walk away.

Here's how we'd spend it.

Do: a chocolate masterclass at Italian Bear Chocolate

A short walk from Broadwick Soho, and the one thing worth booking in advance.

Italian Bear Chocolate has built a following for its rich, Italian-style chocolate and unapologetically indulgent approach. They will be holding a Saturday masterclass for our guest, it's hands-on, a little messy, and exactly what you want over Easter - truffles, pralines, and plenty of tasting along the way.

It works for everyone too. As fun for younger guests as it is for grown-ups.

Wander: Soho, without an agenda

Spend the afternoon moving through the neighbourhood slowly.

Dip in and out of:

  • Independent shops and record stores
  • Cecil Court for second-hand books
  • Berwick Street and the surrounding streets

Stop when something catches your eye. Soho works best like this - unplanned, a bit spontaneous, and never too far from somewhere to sit down.

Book: a West End show

Easter weekend is one of the busiest theatre weekends of the year - in a good way.

You're a short walk from:

  • Major productions
  • Last-minute tickets
  • Family-friendly matinees

If you're booking one thing across the weekend (aside from chocolate), make it this.

If you feel like leaving Soho: The Elephant Trail

If you feel like leaving Soho, there are a couple of easy detours. The Elephant Trail at Battersea Power Station is worth making a trip for - a series of artist-designed sculptures in one place. Across the rest of London, you'll also spot decorated Easter eggs dotted through different neighbourhoods as part of a city-wide trail, something to stumble across rather than plan.

Pick up: Easter eggs (the good ones)

If you're going to do Easter eggs, do them properly.

  • Italian Bear Chocolate - an easy add-on after your masterclass. Rich, indulgent, and more about flavour than novelty.
  • Venchi - right on your doorstep. Italian chocolate, beautifully wrapped eggs, and an easy one to pick up while you're already out wandering.
  • Neuhaus at Selfridges - about a 15-minute walk from the hotel, and worth it if you're after something more classic and giftable. A quick wander north and you're there.

Pick one up on your way back, bring it up to your room, and you're sorted.

For a slower moment: Sunday wandering

Ease into Sunday with:

  • Breakfast at Bar Jackie
  • A lovely walk around Soho green spaces

Some shops may be closed, which only adds to the slower pace.