Drury Lane Gardens: A Historic Pocket Park in Covent Garden
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Drury Lane Gardens is a charming pocket park located in the heart of London’s Covent Garden. Originally a disused graveyard dating back to the 19th century, it was transformed into a public playground and garden in 1877. The park features historic gate piers, a working drinking fountain, and a mix of play areas and sports courts, offering a tranquil green space amid the bustling city streets.
A brief summary to Drury Lane Gardens
- Drury Ln, London, WC2B 5SN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings for a peaceful experience away from crowds.
- Bring snacks and enjoy the nearby cafes and restaurants in Covent Garden after your visit.
- Explore the historic gate piers and repurposed mortuary building to appreciate the park’s unique heritage.
- Ideal for families with children, thanks to its dedicated playground and safe environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Covent Garden station on the Piccadilly Line, approximately a 5-minute walk to the gardens. Alternatively, Holborn station (Central and Piccadilly Lines) is about a 10-minute walk. Bus routes 1, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 91, 139, 176, 188, 243, 341, and N171 stop nearby. Typical travel times range from 20 to 40 minutes from central London locations, with standard Oyster or contactless fares around £2.50.
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Walking
If you are already in Covent Garden or nearby, walking to Drury Lane Gardens is convenient and enjoyable. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times vary from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your starting point within the neighborhood.
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Cycling
Santander Cycles docking stations are available near Tavistock Street and other Covent Garden locations, just minutes from the gardens. Cycling is a quick and eco-friendly option, with bike hire costing approximately £2 for 24 hours plus usage charges. Note that central London can be busy, so exercise caution.
Drury Lane Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Drury Lane Gardens
A Unique Urban Green Space with Historic Roots
Drury Lane Gardens stands as a rare example of a London pocket park with a layered history. Originally part of a graveyard belonging to St John's Church in Broad Court, it was later managed by St Martin's Vestry. The site was closed as a burial ground under the Burial Act when graveyards in the city became overcrowded. In 1877, it was converted into Drury Lane Pleasure Garden, one of Westminster’s first public parks, although it quickly evolved into a children’s playground. The transformation from graveyard to garden reflects Victorian-era urban reforms aimed at improving public health and recreation.Historic Features and Layout
Visitors to Drury Lane Gardens can still see remnants of its past, including the original 19th-century gate piers that guard the entrance. The mortuary building has been repurposed as public toilets, and the lodge has been converted into a quaint cottage. The park is thoughtfully divided into zones, with a dedicated playground area for children and a larger court designed for team sports and active play. Stone walls and benches provide ample seating, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A working drinking fountain adds a touch of historic charm and utility.A Quiet Oasis in a Bustling Neighborhood
Despite its central location near Covent Garden, Drury Lane Gardens remains a tranquil retreat, often surprisingly quiet even on weekends. Its compact size—approximately 1200 square meters—makes it an intimate space where locals and visitors can escape the urban rush. Bird feeders attract local wildlife, although pigeons sometimes dominate the scene. The park’s proximity to notable landmarks such as the Crown Court of the Church of Scotland adds cultural interest to its serene environment.Community and Contemporary Use
Today, Drury Lane Gardens serves primarily as a family-friendly playground and green space for local residents and visitors. Its design reflects a balance between preserving historic elements and meeting modern recreational needs. The park is maintained by Westminster City Council and remains open daily from early morning until late afternoon, welcoming those seeking a brief nature escape or a safe play area for children.Accessibility and Surrounding Attractions
Located just a short walk from Covent Garden and Temple Underground stations, Drury Lane Gardens is easily accessible by public transport. The surrounding area offers a wealth of cultural and dining options, including theaters, restaurants, and shops. This makes the park an ideal spot for a peaceful break during a day of exploring central London’s vibrant attractions.Preserving a Green Legacy in Central London
Drury Lane Gardens exemplifies the importance of preserving small green spaces within dense urban environments. Its history as a former burial ground turned public garden highlights the evolving relationship between Londoners and their city’s open spaces. Today, it stands as a testament to community resilience and the enduring value of accessible nature in the heart of one of the world’s busiest cities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bow St
0.1 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Strand
0.3 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.3 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
The Old Watch House
0.4 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Seven Dials
0.4 km
A star-shaped Georgian quarter blending historic charm with contemporary culture, boutiques, and dining.
Michael Faraday Statue
0.4 km
Discover the legacy of science at the Michael Faraday Statue in London, a stunning tribute to innovation and discovery in the heart of the city.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
Historic Seven Dials
0.4 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Victoria Embankment
0.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
St Clement Danes Church
0.5 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.5 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.5 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Goodwin’s Court
0.5 km
Experience the serene charm of Goodwin's Court, a historic landmark in London, perfect for leisurely strolls and captivating photography.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.5 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fortune Theatre
0.0 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.1 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
0.1 km
Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Royal Ballet and Opera
0.1 km
Experience world-class ballet and opera in the historic and stunning Royal Opera House at London’s vibrant Covent Garden.
London Film Museum
0.2 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.2 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Aldwych Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
Duchess Theatre
0.2 km
Discover the intimate charm and rich history of the Duchess Theatre, a West End treasure since 1929 with iconic productions and timeless elegance.
Novello Theatre
0.2 km
A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.
Mamma Mia!
0.2 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
London Transport Museum
0.2 km
Explore over 200 years of London’s transport history through iconic vehicles, interactive exhibits, and hidden underground tours in Covent Garden.
Peacock Theatre
0.2 km
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
Gillian Lynne Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class musicals and iconic performances in the heart of London’s West End at the historic Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Music at Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant live music and rich cultural heritage at Covent Garden, London's iconic West End soundscape.
Covent Garden
0.2 km
Historic market piazza and cultural hotspot blending world-class theatre, vibrant street life, luxury shopping, and diverse dining in London’s West End.
Essential places to dine
Sarastro
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
0.1 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Balthazar
0.2 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.2 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.2 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Chez Antoinette
0.3 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Circus
0.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.3 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.3 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.3 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.4 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Clos Maggiore
0.4 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Rules
0.4 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.3 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.3 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.3 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.3 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.3 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Pop Boutique
0.3 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Good
0.4 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
The Store X
0.4 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
0.5 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
Twinings - The Strand
0.5 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
not just a shop
0.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Russell Street
0.1 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.2 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.2 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.2 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.2 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.3 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mrs Riot
0.4 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
0.4 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Beaufort Bar
0.4 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.4 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Prelude by Oriole
0.4 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
The Escapologist Bar
0.4 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Princess Louise
0.4 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.4 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.4 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.2 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.4 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Proud Late
0.4 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.5 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Heaven
0.7 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Club49Soho
0.7 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.7 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
0.9 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Sophisticats Soho
0.9 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Luxe Club
0.9 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.9 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
