Background

Neal's Yard

Discover London’s most colorful courtyard, where independent shops, vibrant cafes, and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Covent Garden.

Tucked away in Covent Garden, Neal's Yard is a vibrant, colorful courtyard brimming with independent shops, cafes, and wellness boutiques. Its candy-colored facades and lively atmosphere make it one of London’s most Instagrammable spots, offering a unique blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation just minutes from the city’s bustling streets.

A brief summary to Neal's Yard

  • London, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and capture the best photos of the colorful buildings.
  • Check individual shop opening hours, as some close earlier than others, especially on Sundays.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle—Neal’s Yard Remedies offers free water refills for customers.
  • Explore the surrounding Seven Dials area for more hidden alleys, shops, and restaurants.
  • Look for the small alleyways on Monmouth Street and Shorts Gardens—they’re easy to miss but lead to the heart of Neal’s Yard.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Underground

    Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden Underground Station, then walk for five minutes to reach Neal’s Yard via Monmouth Street or Shorts Gardens.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes serve the Covent Garden area, including the 1, 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 26, 59, 68, 76, 91, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, and 521. Alight at Covent Garden or nearby stops and walk for five minutes to Neal’s Yard.

  • Walking

    From Leicester Square or Tottenham Court Road Underground Stations, walk for about 10 minutes to reach Neal’s Yard, following signs for Covent Garden and Seven Dials.

  • Cycling

    Cycle to Neal’s Yard using Santander Cycles docking stations nearby. The courtyard is flat and accessible, but be mindful of the narrow entrances.

Neal's Yard location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Neal's Yard

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Neal's Yard

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Covent Garden

Nestled between Monmouth Street and Shorts Gardens, Neal's Yard is a small, tucked-away courtyard that feels worlds away from the busy streets of central London. First developed in the 17th century by Thomas Neale, the area remained a quiet, unremarkable alley until the 1970s, when entrepreneur Nicholas Saunders transformed it into a hub for ethical and sustainable businesses. Today, it’s a kaleidoscope of color, with buildings painted in bright hues and adorned with quirky murals, making it a favorite among photographers and visitors seeking a touch of whimsy.

Independent Shops and Culinary Delights

The courtyard is home to a collection of independent shops, each with its own character. Neal’s Yard Remedies, a pioneer in organic beauty products, offers fragrant skincare and wellness items, while Neal’s Yard Dairy tempts cheese lovers with artisanal selections from Britain and Ireland. Foodies will find plenty to explore, from the Wild Food Café’s plant-based menu to Jacob the Angel Café’s cozy coffee offerings. The Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels serves up wine and charcuterie, and 26 Grains offers healthy breakfasts and brunches. With so many options, there’s something for every palate.

A Vibrant Community Atmosphere

Beyond shopping and dining, Neal’s Yard is a place to soak in the atmosphere. Benches and seating areas invite visitors to pause and enjoy the lively buzz, while the courtyard’s intimate scale encourages conversation and connection. The area is popular with locals and tourists alike, especially during the day when the sun highlights the vibrant colors of the buildings. Events and pop-ups occasionally take place, adding to the sense of community and creativity.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The courtyard itself is flat and accessible, with paved walkways and entrances from both Monmouth Street and Shorts Gardens. While the yard is always open, individual shops and cafes have their own opening hours, typically from morning to early evening. Most businesses close by late evening, so visiting during the day ensures the full experience. The area is well-served by public transport, with Covent Garden Underground Station just a five-minute walk away.

A Legacy of Transformation

Neal’s Yard’s story is one of reinvention. Once slated for demolition, the area was saved by grassroots efforts and has since become a symbol of London’s independent spirit. Its colorful buildings and eclectic mix of businesses reflect a commitment to sustainability and community, making it a place that feels both historic and refreshingly modern. Whether you’re here for a coffee, a shopping spree, or simply to admire the scenery, Neal’s Yard offers a memorable slice of London life.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Neal's Yard

Popular Hotels near Neal's Yard

Select Currency