Located in the West End of London, Covent Garden attracts visitors who enjoy lively street life and cultural attractions. Its iconic plaza and labyrinth, narrow side streets are home to traditional English pubs, art galleries, opera houses, shopping, theatres and fine dining.
Begin an exploration in the heart of the city on Shaftesbury Avenue, the home of London’s Theatre and Opera District. Take in a world-class show or enjoy the many traditional pubs or restaurants peppering the roadside. Nearby, Seven Dials offers unsurpassed shopping opportunities. With independent and high street stores tempting tourists with elaborate window displays, visitors are sure to find that special gift. Covent Garden itself is a pleasure to behold. Arcade shops and stalls sit side by side offering a plethora of artwork, jewellery, fashion and toys. Street performers peddle their talents in the cobbled plaza, as tourists dine underneath bold, liveried canopies. Sit for a while, sip a glass of wine and soak up the atmosphere of this centuries-old trading post. Nearby, in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery display artwork and exhibits from all over the world. Those interested in delving deep into the history of this area of London can do so at the London Transport Museum, St. Paul’s Church in Covent Garden and the Hunterian Museum.
Reaching Covent Garden from central London is easy on foot. It’s a short stroll from Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. Buses operate throughout the city stopping nearby on The Strand. Alternatively, navigate the city effortlessly via the London Underground. Covent Garden Station which runs on the Piccadilly Line is a stone’s throw from the plaza and market. Taxis and Uber are available throughout the city.
Covent Garden central square was once home to a thriving fruit and vegetable market. From its humble beginnings as a Benedictine Monk’s walled garden, it grew to become one of the largest produce markets in the world. Covent Garden has taken many guises over the centuries. As the area flourished, it rose from an impoverished area of the city to become the hub of London’s theatrical life and aristocracy. Covent Garden of today offers a unique blend of past meets present, the ambience of old London lingers on in its historic buildings, markets and quaint side streets.