Covent Garden is London’s famous and magical district, known for its vibrant vibe, historical charm, and varied delights that appeal to every curious visitor. It is a largely pedestrianized region and is perfect for easy discovery on foot. Covent Garden’s soul is found in its celebrated Piazza, ringed by interlinked streets and squares such as Neal’s Yard and Seven Dials, each with its own individual character. This lively hub is beautifully conducive to families with kids, complete with lots of open space and interesting entertainment. Best of all, strolling about Covent Garden is completely free, with everyone able to soak up its special atmosphere.
A Food Tour: Dining & Drinking in Covent Garden
Covent Garden has an amazing food scene, with options to suit any taste and budget. You can find a stunning selection of cuisine types, ranging from sophisticated fine dining restaurants ideal for a night out to stylish casual restaurants and speedy, tasty grab-and-go snacks. It’s a perfect place for a pre-theatre dining, with many restaurants having set menus intended for rapid service prior to a performance. The region is very welcoming towards dietary requirements, with ample vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices widely spread out through its variety of restaurants and cafes.
Of the well-recommended eateries, there is something for all tastes from global chains to independent hidden gems. Look for quirky cafes and coffee shops for a lively break, several with picturesque outside seating. If you want an evening cocktail, Covent Garden has an array of classic London pubs full of character and trendy cocktail bars mixing up new creations. Al fresco dining is offered at many, especially near the Piazza and one-off streets, ideal for people-watching the bustling street life.
Retail Therapy: Covent Garden Shopping
Shopping in Covent Garden is a treat, presenting a rich tapestry of retail opportunities beyond the usual high street chains. Though you will discover flagship stores for some key international brands, the area excels with its independent boutiques, artisan crafts shops, and specialty retailers. Historic Covent Garden Market (Piazza) is the focal shopping gem, split into distinct areas. Apple Market deals in special arts and crafts, hand-made jewellery, and unusual gifts. The Jubilee Market, with a diverse daily theme, deals in anything from antiques to general market items.
Normal opening times for malls and markets are usually between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM (or 8:00 PM) during weekdays, and shorter hours on Sundays. Don’t forget to visit the quaint little streets such as Neal Street and Long Acre for specialty and quirky stores, independent fashion stores, and specialist stores. For lifestyle, fashion, and beauty stores, visit the neighborhoods around Seven Dials and Floral Street, which provide a carefully chosen selection of modern brands.
Wandering & Entertainment: The Soul of Covent Garden
Aside from eating and shopping, strolling around Covent Garden is an event in itself, with the eyes treated to constant visual beauty and surprise entertainment at every turn. The Royal Opera House is a stunning piece of architectural art, not to mention the original market building and the beautifully ornate trim of Victorian buildings nearby. The district is internationally famous for its renowned street performers, who congregate in the Piazza and frequently around the entrance to St Paul’s Church (“the actors’ church”). You can look forward to a varied selection of performances, including brilliant magicians and acrobats, living statues, and skilled musicians, all vying to entertain. Street performers are busiest in daytime hours and early evenings, particularly at weekends and in good weather.
For those in search of secret treasures, explore the less busy courtyards and alleys such as Neal’s Yard for its rainbow-coloured buildings and organic health food cafes. Covent Garden used to be London’s primary fruit and veg market, and the remnants of this heritage are evident in some of the architectural features and street signs. Its mid-point makes it convenient to tie in a visit to Covent Garden with other local attractions such as the West End theatres, Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, and Soho, which are all within walking distance.
Practicalities for Your Stay
Accessing Covent Garden is extremely easy through London’s public transport system. The Covent Garden Underground (Piccadilly Line) brings you directly into the middle of the area, although it is extremely busy and has only a lift entrance. Leicester Square (Northern & Piccadilly Lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo, Northern & National Rail) are short, enjoyable walks away. Shops and markets tend to open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM during weekdays, with reduced Sunday opening hours. Public restrooms are provided in the Market Building and in many restaurants and cafes. The central parts of Covent Garden are mostly mobility-friendly with flat pavements surrounding the Piazza, although some of the older side streets may have bumpy surfaces. ATMs can be found throughout the area, and international credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, so cash exchange is not usually required within Covent Garden proper.
