Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular spots for tourists, known for its entertainment industry and food offerings. Located in the heart of the West End, it offers a perfect blend of theatre, shopping, and dining, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. From street performances to some of London’s most iconic Christmas destinations, there’s so much to explore in Covent Garden.
Table of Contents:
- How to Get to Covent Garden
- The Best Things to Do in Covent Garden
- Where to Eat in Covent Garden
- Hidden Covent Garden Spots
- When to Visit
- Seasonal Events at Covent Garden
- Where to Stay
Getting to Covent Garden
Covent Garden is extremely central which makes it super easy to reach from all areas across London! Here are our top tips on how to get here:
By Tube
Covent Garden has its own tube station which is located on the Piccadilly line. Make sure you don’t ignore the signs and take the stairs as it’s a lot of walking! The lifts are far easier to get upstairs from the platform!
Leicester Square and Holborn are also super close tube stations.
By Train
Heading into London by train? Head to Charing Cross station which is just a short walk from Covent Garden.
By Bus
There are a number of buses that stop nearby, including these: 9, 13, 15, 23, 24, 139, and 153.
The Best Things to Do in Covent Garden
Covent Garden has so many activities on offer for everyone, whether you’re taking your family or looking for a night out with friends. Here are our favourite things to do in this neighbourhood of London!
Covent Garden Market
The heart of Covent Garden is its historic market, which dates back to the 17th century. Originally it was a fruit and vegetable market, but it is now a busy shopping destination filled with stalls, boutiques, and all your favourite shops. Don’t miss the Apple Market, where local artisans showcase their handcrafted jewellery, art, and homeware. The East Colonnade Market is also worth exploring for its selection of sweets, and accessories. This part of Covent Garden is always super busy so if you can, we’d recommend visiting in the mornings when it’s a little quieter!
Shopping in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is home to a mix of luxury brands, independent boutiques, and quirky shops. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new piece from Chanel, Burberry, or Tiffany & Co, or are wanting to visit hidden gems like Choosing Keeping (a gorgeous stationery shop) – there’s something for every shopper. For beauty lovers, Covent Garden is also home to popular brands like Aesop, Dior, and Charlotte Tilbury.
Entertainment and Street Performers
Particularly if you’re visiting with kids, a trip to Covent Garden wouldn’t be complete without seeing the street performers! From those dressed up to be statues, to dancers, singers, and everything in between – they really bring life to the area.
For a guaranteed treat, head to Covent Garden’s theatres and entertainment venues. These include The Royal Opera & Ballet House as well as some of the West End’s most iconic theatres such as the Theatre Royal. You can often get on the day tickets from sites like TodayTix if you haven’t booked ahead.
Covent Garden for Families
Covent Garden is a magical destination for families, offering plenty of activities and sights that appeal to visitors of all ages. The street performers in the piazza are always a hit with little ones, and the London Transport Museum is both educational and fun for kids interested in buses, trains, and London’s transport history. The area also has family-friendly restaurants like Pizza Pilgrims and Shake Shack, which provide kid-friendly options. During various holidays the area dresses up with lots of family photo ops spread around the main piazza.
Nightlife in Covent Garden
Covent Garden is known for its nightlife, with a wide range of bars, pubs, and cocktail bars to suit every taste. Whether you’re after a tasty cocktail or a traditional British pub experience, Covent Garden has it all. The area is home to popular bars like The Alchemist, known for its creative cocktail. For beer lovers, traditional pubs like The Lamb & Flag (which is one of London’s haunted pubs) offer a cosy atmosphere and a piece of Covent Garden history. Many of the area’s bars and pubs stay open late, making it a perfect destination for a night out in central London.
Dining in Covent Garden
Covent Garden has a fantastic dining scene, with options ranging from casual street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. The area is home to a variety of international cuisines, including Italian, French, Japanese, and British fare. Popular spots include Balthazar, a stylish brasserie offering French classics, and Dishoom, known for its flavorful Bombay-inspired dishes. For a nice brunch spot head over to Lily’s which has both indoor and outdoor seating.
For a sweet treat some of our favourites include Milk Train, an ice-cream bar that boasts gorgeous changing decorations throughout the seasons and Humble Crumble which has recently opened their Covent Garden location.
Hidden Gems in Covent Garden
While Covent Garden is famous for its lively piazza and major attractions, the area also has its share of hidden gems that offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Neal’s Yard is one of London’s most colourful spots, tucked away from the hustle and bustle. This vibrant courtyard is filled with independent cafés, wellness shops, and organic eateries.
For a quiet escape, head to St. Paul’s Church, also known as “The Actor’s Church,” a peaceful spot with lovely gardens. Exploring these lesser-known spots will give you a deeper appreciation of Covent Garden’s unique character.
Best Time to Visit Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a year-round destination, but different seasons bring unique experiences. In the spring and summer, the piazza comes alive with blooming flowers, open-air dining, and vibrant street performances. This is the best time to enjoy al fresco dining or simply relax in the square with a drink. Autumn sees fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore Covent Garden Market and the surrounding boutiques at a more leisurely pace. Winter is perhaps the most magical time to visit Covent Garden, with festive lights, Christmas markets, and seasonal performances adding to the charm. Whether you’re visiting for a summer day out or to soak in the Christmas atmosphere, Covent Garden offers something special every season.
Christmas in Covent Garden
During the winter months, the Christmas in Covent Garden event transforms the piazza into a festive wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, a giant Christmas tree, and themed market stalls offering everything from gifts to mulled wine. There is usually a flurry of ‘snow’ near the tree on the hour throughout the Christmas season. You’ll find sleighs set up ready for you to take some family snaps to remember.
Halloween in Covent Garden
During October, Covent Garden comes alive with pumpkins – hosting one of London’s few pumpkin patches. Again, there are lots of autumnal photo opportunities around this time too.
Where to Stay in Covent Garden
For those looking to stay in the heart of London, Covent Garden has an array of hotels*, from luxury to cosy boutique stays. High-end choices like The Savoy and One Aldwych provide a premium experience, with top-notch service and proximity to the area’s main attractions. For a more boutique feel, options like the Henrietta Hotel or the Fielding Hotel offer stylish rooms with a personal touch. Staying in Covent Garden means you’ll be within walking distance of world-class theatres, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring London’s West End.
*This is an affiliate link – if you book a hotel through this link it will cost no extra to you but we will earn a small commission.
Final Tips for Visiting Covent Garden
- To make the most of your visit to Covent Garden, consider arriving early to avoid the midday crowds, especially on weekends.
- While Covent Garden is a compact area, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there’s plenty to explore on foot.
- If you’re looking to enjoy a show at the Royal Opera House or a West End theatre, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, as performances can sell out quickly.
- Covent Garden is a key tourist area which means there is petty crime. Keep your belongings in zipped crossbody bags, keep your phone in a safe location, and be aware of your surroundings.
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