A Big Day Out at Hot Mess

Make the most out of your day seeing Hot Mess: A New Musical in London, including restaurants, shopping and things to do near the theatre

The Earth and Humanity – it’s the oldest love story on record, but it’s far from a perfect romance. Hot Mess, the new musical at the Other Palace, charts this relationship from the passionate love affair it once was to the chaos it’s become. The original pop musical was a huge hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, and now makes its way to the West End, playing at the Other Palace from 23 June to 6 September.

If you’re coming to check out this hilarious, hopeful new musical for yourself – and you should – then we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide to planning a big day out at Hot Mess: A New Musical.

Things to do near Hot Mess the musical
Restaurants near Hot Mess the musical
Shopping near Hot Mess the musical
Bars and pubs near Hot Mess the musical
Tube stations and bus stops near Hot Mess the musical
On-theme activities for Hot Mess the musical

Things to do near Hot Mess the musical

There’s lots to see and do near the Other Palace Theatre. Buckingham Palace is right next door, just a five-minute walk from the theatre, offering visitors the chance to explore the State rooms and experience the Changing of the Guard ceremony if they time their visit right. Whilst you’re there, you may also want to stop by The King’s Gallery, where you can see exhibitions from the Royal Collection including master paintings, rare photographs and vintage furnishings and decorative arts.

If it’s a nice day, you may want to take a stroll to St James’ Park, perhaps for a picnic lunch. You’ll find this picturesque spot right beside Buckingham Palace, offering beautiful views, lakeside strolls and a lot of nature – including the famous pelicans.

Another famous sightseeing spot is Westminster Abbey, just a fifteen-minute walk from the theatre. The Abbey is the final resting place of many notable figures in British history, including plenty of royals. For more British history, the Churchill War Rooms is also a fifteen minute walk away. Situated in the Cabinet War Rooms – the secret underground headquarters from which the core of the British government worked during the Second World War – this museum offers an insight into what life would have been like for those fighting the war from underground.

The Bath House is just five minutes from the theatre, considered by many to be London’s best spa. The healing and nourishing principles of traditional banya are woven into contemporary therapies in this unique spa experience. If you’re celebrating something special, it’s well worth a splurge.

Or, for easy, time-filling fun, Lane 7 is just five minutes from the Other Palace and offers bowling, mini golf and shuffleboard. If everyone’s of drinking age, there’s also beer pong and a secret over-18s basement arcade hall on offer.

Restaurants near Hot Mess the musical

There are endless restaurant options around Victoria, including many if not most of your favourite chains.

Market Halls – This is a dining experience that will please everyone – with nine different kitchens each serving their own cuisines, there are no compromises needed here. This beautiful Edwardian building offers seating over three floors and even boasts a hidden rooftop bar.

The Curry Room – Set inside The Rubens at the Palace, The Curry Room offers an a la carte menu prepared with the finest ingredients and spices imported direct from India. Each dish is a testimony to the artistry of Indian cuisine, all served in a luxurious space.

The English Grill – You’ll find signature British classics made with excellence in this beautifully decorated brasserie, from their signature beef wellington to expertly-grilled steaks and seasonal plant-based dishes.

Casa do Frango Victoria – Inspired by summers in the Algarve, this spot is known both for their excellent chicken and signature Portuguese hospitality, set across two floors with a mezzanine and bar.

Brother Marcus Victoria – Offering all-day Eastern Mediterranean dining, vibrant mezzes and sharable small plates, Brother Marcus takes inspiration from the flavours of Crete, Cyprus and beyond, crafting bold dishes no matter if you stop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Shan Shui Social – This 1920s Shanghai-inspired by Chinese restaurant, taking diners on a culinary journey across China. Their excellent cocktail menu is also inspired by traditional Chinese flavours.

Shopping near Hot Mess the musical

Just a short walk from the theatre you’ll find Victoria Place, a shopping centre housing a number of high-street brands and popular eateries. Cardinal Place is also just few minutes away, also home to many of the country’s favourite high-street shops, cafes and restaurants.

Bars and pubs near Hot Mess the musical

There are plenty of popular chains within walking distance of the theatre, and all of our recommended restaurants can serve you a great drink. Here are a few of our other favourites.

The Phoenix – From perfect pints to summer spritzes and an extensive, globally-sourced wine list, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for at this 1928 backstreet pub, including a sunny front terrace and pub garden.

Cask & Glass – This quaint, historic pub is the perfect place for a traditional London pint, including pours from Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame. If cosy’s what you’re after, this is the spot.

The New York Bar – Housed inside the Rubens at the Palace, this luxurious bar is famous for its striking red décor and original artwork hanging on the walls – as well as its expertly-made drinks, of course. From signature classics to modern infusions, you’ll find plenty to get excited about on the menu.

Bbar – Live sports, inventive cocktails, a sunny terrace, elevated bar food and DJ sets throughout the week are all on offer at this cheerful spot, found beneath London’s largest living wall.

Tube stations and bus stops near Hot Mess the musical

The closest tube station to the Other Palace Theatre is Victoria Station, fifteen minutes’ walk from the theatre and on the District, Circle and Victoria lines. It’s also your closest National Rail spot. The theatre is also very well connected via bus. Plan your journey ahead of time with TFL travel for the best experience.

On-theme activities for Hot Mess the musical

Hadestown – If you’re looking to catch another show while you’re in town, Hadestown might be a fun one to pair with Hot Mess. This Greek myth retelling is a very different show, but one that reflects on the state of the world today – and inspires you to dream about how things could be. Catch it at the Lyric Theatre.

Wrap-Around Events at the Other Palace – There’s a great programme of events to go alongside Hot Mess at the Other Palace, with panels on climate and living conditions in the UK and creative workshops on offer. Make sure to check what’s on when you visit.

Fixing Our Broken Planet at the National History Museum – Ready to learn more about what the Earth and Humanity’s future could look like? The new permanent gallery at the National History Museum explores practical, nature-based solutions to our biggest problems, with contributions from top researchers.

Energy Revolution: The Adoni Green Energy Gallery at the Science Museum – Another great exhibit about the future of our planet, this free gallery explores how the world can generate and use energy more sustainably to limit climate change. Maybe this doesn’t have to be such a toxic relationship after all.

Hot Mess is playing at The Other Palace Theatre from 23 June to 6 September – find tickets here