Why the Hippodrome is So Easy to Reach
Leicester Square sits at the heart of London’s West End, and the Hippodrome Casino is right on its doorstep. Thanks to the capital’s integrated transport network, you can arrive by Tube, bus, train, taxi, bicycle or even on foot with very little fuss. This guide breaks down every realistic option so you can plan your journey with confidence.
By London Underground
The quickest way to reach the Hippodrome is by Tube. Leicester Square station is literally across the road, served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. From the station exits, follow signs for Leicester Square and you will see the casino’s distinctive facade within a minute or two.
Other useful stations include Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines), about a five-minute walk away, and Charing Cross (Northern and Bakerloo lines plus National Rail), roughly eight to ten minutes on foot. Covent Garden, on the Piccadilly line, is also close, though the station has no step-free access and gets extremely busy at peak times.
By National Rail
If you are coming into London by train, Charing Cross is the most convenient mainline station, with a short walk to the casino. Waterloo is about a 15-minute walk across the river, or one stop on the Northern line to Leicester Square. Euston, King’s Cross St Pancras and Liverpool Street are all within 15 to 25 minutes by Tube. Victoria and Paddington are similarly well connected via the Underground.
By Bus
Many bus routes pass through or near Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, making buses a flexible option, especially late at night when some Tube lines are closed. Useful routes include the 24, 29, 88, 94, 139 and 176, among others. Night buses keep the area connected after midnight, which is handy if you are visiting the casino in the evening.
By Taxi or Private Hire
Black cabs are plentiful around the West End, and drivers know the Hippodrome well. There are also licensed minicab and ride-hailing options. Traffic can be heavy in the evening, so allow extra time if you are travelling by road. A designated drop-off point on Charing Cross Road or Coventry Street will put you within a short walk of the entrance.
Walking and Cycling
The West End is very walkable. If you are already in Soho, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square or Chinatown, you can simply stroll to the casino. For cyclists, there are Santander Cycles docking stations nearby, plus quieter side streets if you prefer to avoid the busiest roads. Remember to check local cycling rules and use lights after dark.
Step-Free and Accessibility Considerations
Leicester Square station is not step-free, so if you need level access, consider travelling to a step-free station such as Waterloo, King’s Cross St Pancras or London Bridge, then continuing by bus or taxi. Buses in central London are generally wheelchair accessible, and black cabs can accommodate wheelchairs. It is worth planning your route in advance if you have specific access needs.
Key Transport Options at a Glance
- Tube: Leicester Square (Northern, Piccadilly), Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly, Bakerloo), Charing Cross (Northern, Bakerloo, National Rail).
- Train: Charing Cross, Waterloo, Euston, King’s Cross St Pancras, Liverpool Street, Victoria, Paddington.
- Bus: Routes 24, 29, 88, 94, 139, 176 and night buses serving the West End.
- Taxi: Black cabs and private hire drop-offs on Charing Cross Road or Coventry Street.
- Walking: Easy from Soho, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square and Chinatown.
- Cycling: Santander Cycles docks nearby; quieter side streets recommended.
Timing Your Journey
Central London is busiest during weekday rush hours and on weekend evenings. If you are heading to the casino for a show or a night out, aim to arrive earlier than you think you need to. The last Tube services run until around midnight, with Night Tube operating on some lines on Fridays and Saturdays. Always check the TfL website or app for live updates before you travel.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Arrival
Keep a contactless card or mobile wallet ready for fares, and remember that bus fares are simpler than Tube fares because they are a flat rate. If you are using a paper ticket or a visitor Oyster card, top up before you travel. Finally, save a screenshot of your route in case you lose signal underground.
With several Tube stations nearby, reaching the Hippodrome Casino is straightforward whether you travel by train, bus or taxi.
