Things to do
There’s so much to see and do in Covent Garden and the surrounding area, no matter if you want to relax listening to musicians or learn more about London’s transport history.
Street Performers
No trip to Covent Garden is complete without encountering the talented street performers. From magicians and musicians to acrobats and comedians, these entertainers have been exciting crowds since the 1660s, and add a touch of magic to the atmosphere of the main piazza.
The London Transport Museum
Dive into the history of London’s iconic transport system at the London Transport Museum. Explore a fascinating collection of 19th-century London and Victorian transport, vintage vehicles from the 20th and 21st centuries, delve into the evolution of the London Underground, and even see a glimpse of the future of transportation.
Seven Dials
Stroll through the stylish streets of Seven Dials, a short walk from the main piazza. This area boasts a unique architectural layout with seven converging streets meeting at the iconic Seven Dials monument, creating a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of independent shops, cafes and restaurants.
The Royal Opera House
Witness the pinnacle of performing arts at the world-renowned Royal Opera House. This magnificent building is home to The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet, offering a chance to experience world-class opera, ballet and other performances. There are also other events such as Behind the Scenes tours where you’ll learn more about what goes on behind the scenes, and Live at Lunch, free performances featuring Royal Opera House and guest artists.
The West End
Immerse yourself in the magic of theatre at one of the many historic theatres in the surrounding area, also known as the West End or Theatreland. From classic plays and musicals to contemporary productions in smaller venues, there’s always a show to captivate you. Did you know there are some West End shows that have been running for over 20 years such as The Mousetrap at St Martin’s Theatre and The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre?
Shopper’s Paradise
London is known for having an amazing array of brilliant shopping areas, but did you know that Covent Garden is one of the best?
Covent Garden Market
Explore the bustling Covent Garden Market, where you can find a delightful array of shops selling everything from handcrafted souvenirs to high-end fashion. Whether you choose to shop in the main piazza or one of the famous markets such as Apple Market or Jubilee Market, or the surrounding streets, there’s plenty of choice for everyone, no matter your taste.
Neal’s Yard
Don’t miss the charming Neal’s Yard, a haven for independent shops and boutiques. Known as a highly Instagrammable destination with its colourful houses and unique stores, it’s a delightful place to wander and discover hidden treasures. You can find entrances to this not-so-hidden gem on Monmouth Street or Shorts Garden.
Culinary delights
After a day of exploring, Covent Garden offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes and small eateries to tempt your taste buds.
Bakeries
Bakeries are the perfect place to grab a quick snack during a busy day exploring the bustling markets, or for breakfast to start the day off just right. Bageriet is a wonderful traditional Swedish bakery that offers a wonderful array of biscuits, cakes, bread and speciality pastries such as prinsesstårta or pepperkaka. Or consider visiting Arôme Bakery for a taste of French and Asian confectionaries such as shokupan or miso bacon escargot.
Sweet treats
From classic French patisseries to quirky ice cream parlours, there are many delightful sweet treats for you to try in Covent Garden. Milk Train is a quirky spot that offers innovative ice cream flavours, candy floss creations and delicious popcorn for a truly unique sweet treat. Or experience a taste of Portugal with the flaky and creamy Pastéis de Nata from Santa Nata.
Flesh & Buns
And the perfect way to end a busy day exploring Covent Garden is to come to Flesh & Buns. We believe that food and experiences are made to be shared. Our Japanese-inspired menu serves up a mix of small and larger plates, meaning that you can build your very own sharing experience. Plus, our Covent Garden restaurant is only a 5-minute walk from the main piazza, and around a 2-minute walk from the Covent Garden tube station, making it easily accessible.
This is just a taste of what Covent Garden and the surrounding area have to offer. With its captivating blend of history, entertainment, shopping, and dining, it’s a place that guarantees a memorable experience for all. So, what are you waiting for? Head down to Covent Garden and explore its magic for yourself!
