Drury Lane Gardens: A Historic Pocket Park in London’s Covent Garden
A historic pocket park in Covent Garden offering a tranquil playground and green retreat amidst London’s vibrant theatre district.
Drury Lane Gardens is a charming small park nestled 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 green space. The park features a children’s play area, a multi-sport court, seating on stone walls and benches, and a working drinking fountain. It offers a tranquil urban retreat surrounded by rich history and close proximity to London’s vibrant theatre district.
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 daylight hours as the park is open from 8am until dusk, offering a safe and pleasant environment for families.
- Bring some birdseed to enjoy watching local birds, but be prepared for pigeons who often dominate the feeders.
- Combine your visit with a theatre outing nearby, as the gardens are just a short walk from Covent Garden’s famous theatres.
- Use the stone walls and benches to rest and soak up the historic atmosphere, especially near the original gate piers and lodge.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Drinking Water
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Covent Garden station (Piccadilly Line), approximately a 5-minute walk to the gardens. Alternatively, Leicester Square station (Northern and Piccadilly Lines) is about a 7-minute walk. Bus routes serving Drury Lane include numbers 1, 6, 9, and 15 with frequent service. Single fares range from £1.75 to £2.50 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Walking
From central London landmarks such as Leicester Square or Trafalgar Square, walking to Drury Lane Gardens takes about 10–15 minutes over flat, paved terrain. The route is fully accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from London Waterloo or King’s Cross stations to Drury Lane Gardens typically takes 15–25 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £10–£20. Note that traffic congestion can vary, especially during peak hours.
Drury Lane Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Drury Lane Gardens
From Graveyard to Garden: The Origins of Drury Lane Gardens
Drury Lane Gardens occupies a site that was once a graveyard belonging to St John’s Church in Broad Court. As London’s population grew and burial grounds became overcrowded, the Burial Act allowed such graveyards to be closed and repurposed. Drury Lane Gardens was Westminster’s first graveyard to be officially closed and converted into a public space. The transformation began in the late 19th century, with the park opening as Drury Lane Pleasure Garden in 1877. Although early popularity led to some disorderly use and a temporary closure, it eventually settled into its role as a peaceful urban green space.Design and Features: A Park for Play and Relaxation
The park is thoughtfully divided into zones to accommodate different activities. A dedicated children’s play area with modern apparatus invites families, while a larger multi-sport court caters to team sports and active recreation. Seating is plentiful, with benches and raised stone walls offering spots to rest and observe the surroundings. The entrance is marked by 19th-century gate piers, and the original mortuary and lodge buildings have been repurposed as toilets and a cottage, preserving architectural heritage. A working drinking fountain adds a nostalgic touch, blending Victorian-era charm with contemporary use.Setting and Surroundings: An Oasis Amidst London’s Theatre Hub
Located on Drury Lane in the WC2B postcode, the gardens sit just steps away from Covent Garden’s bustling theatres and vibrant cultural scene. The nearby Theatre Royal Drury Lane and other entertainment venues create a lively backdrop, while the park itself offers a quiet refuge. Bird feeders attract local wildlife, though pigeons are known to be cheeky visitors. Just behind the gardens stands the Crown Court of the Church of Scotland, a historic site linked to the union of the English and Scottish crowns, adding another layer of historical significance to the area.Visiting Experience: Tranquility and Community in a Compact Space
Despite its central location, Drury Lane Gardens maintains a peaceful atmosphere, often remaining uncrowded even on weekends. Its compact size of approximately 1200 square meters makes it a perfect pocket park for a brief respite from city life. The park’s design encourages both active play and quiet contemplation, making it suitable for families, solo visitors, and anyone seeking a moment of calm. The presence of seating areas and the playground ensures it is welcoming and accessible.Preservation and Legacy: A Green Space with Historical Roots
Drury Lane Gardens exemplifies how urban spaces can evolve while respecting their past. The retention of original architectural elements and the park’s layout reflect a commitment to heritage preservation. It stands as a testament to Victorian urban planning and the social reforms that prioritized public green spaces for health and recreation. Today, it continues to serve the local community and visitors as a cherished green oasis amidst London’s dense urban fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Strand
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Bow Street Police Museum
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Theatre Royal Drury Lane
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Royal Ballet and Opera
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London Film Museum
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Duchess Theatre
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Novello Theatre
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London Transport Museum
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Peacock Theatre
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Gillian Lynne Theatre
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Essential places to dine
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Circus
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
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
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
