Overview

While gathering notes for my Leicester Square review, I found myself pulled towards the store, drawn in by the rich scent of chocolate wafting through the air, like a cartoon character floating toward a cherry pie cooling on a windowsill. At first, the smell was irresistible. But the longer I stayed inside, the magic began to wear off. After about twenty minutes, I developed a headache. This was one of the most intense sensory experiences I’ve had on my travels. If you aren't as sensitive to scents as I seem to be, it may not bother you. For those with sensory issues, it’s something to keep in mind. The store is packed with all kinds of M&M merchandise, features the world's largest chocolate wall, and even gives you the option to print messages or even your face on M&Ms.

Transport & Parking

The nearest bus stop is just around the corner on Charing Cross Road, where you'll find the 29, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279 services running. Leicester Square Underground is also really close and accessible, which is a definite plus. If you're driving, the closest car park is Q-Park off Whitcomb Street, just southwest of the square, and it has three Blue Badge bays. There's also another option at Q-Park Chinatown, just off Newport Place, which has lift access. The area is around the store is mostly pedestrianised, and the pavements on the way in are in good shape.

Access

The doors were pinned open during my visit, making access easy enough. I noticed a rope barrier was set up outside, so it looks like the store can get busy at times, and there could be a queue depending on the time of day you visit. The store has level access throughout, with lifts to all floors. The lifts have embossed buttons, but do not have braille markings. The lift is quite small, though it could accommodate a powerchair user and another person. A perimeter rail is installed for those who need it. There was no hearing loop in the lift. The stairs have rails on either side and in the centre, with metal strips marking the edge of each step. When going between floors, I had to wrestle with some heavy doors from the lift corridor out to the shop floor, which is frustrating when there is more than enough room for either automatic or touchpad-operated doors. On floor -1, you can print your image or text on M&Ms, this is performed using a touch screen, which can be accessed from a seated height. I noted that several of the cash desks had a lowered section, although there was no signage regarding a hearing loop and no clear alternative format employed, which is a real shame for such a large location. Signage is generally clear, though I had a bit of trouble finding the lift.

Toilets

The toilets can be found on floor -2, with the accessible toilet requiring a RADAR key to access. The door opens outwards and is secured from the inside by turning the small handle. The room is big enough for a powerchair user and two other people. There is space for a left-side transfer to the toilet, which is free of obstruction. The toilet seat has silver grab rails on either side, which contrast with the white walls. The red cord is on the left when seated, but it was tucked up behind the toilet paper dispenser. I fixed this and let it hang to the floor, but it's frustrating that it had to be fixed. The sink has a small basin and features a lever-style tap and silver rails on either side. The mirror is a little high, however. The smell of chocolate mentioned about lingers in the toilet too but there definitely could be worse scents in a public toilet.

Staff

Photos