Punch & Judy Pub, Covent Garden: A Historic London Landmark
Historic 18th-century pub in Covent Garden named after England’s first Punch and Judy show, blending rich theatrical heritage with classic British charm.
Located at 40 The Market in Covent Garden, London, the Punch & Judy pub is a historic 18th-century establishment named after the first recorded Punch and Judy puppet show in England. This listed building, with its charming beer garden and balcony overlooking the lively piazza, offers traditional cask ales and classic pub fare in a family-friendly setting. It stands as a rare survivor of the Blitz and remains a vibrant part of London's cultural and theatrical heritage.
A brief summary to Punch & Judy
- 40 The Market, London, WC2E 8RF, GB
- +442073790923
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the balcony for a great view of the lively Covent Garden piazza and its street performers.
- Try traditional cask ales and classic pub dishes to experience authentic British pub culture.
- Look for the commemorative plaque on St Paul’s Church nearby to learn about the historic Punch and Judy puppet show.
- Plan your visit in early May to catch the annual Punch and Judy festival with live puppet performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden station, which is approximately a 5-minute walk from the pub. The station is well-serviced with frequent trains, and tickets cost around £2.50–£6.00 depending on time and card used. Note that the station has no step-free access.
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Bus
Several London buses stop near Covent Garden, including routes 1, 9, 11, and 15. Journey times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Bus fares are £1.75 with an Oyster card or contactless payment. Buses offer accessible boarding.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. Fares range from £8 to £20. Note that traffic congestion and limited parking in Covent Garden may affect travel times.
Punch & Judy location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Punch & Judy
Roots of a London Icon
The Punch & Judy pub owes its name to the first recorded Punch and Judy puppet show in England, witnessed by diarist Samuel Pepys in Covent Garden in 1662. This iconic puppet show, featuring the anarchic Mr Punch and his wife Judy, originated from the Italian commedia dell’arte character Pulcinella and was introduced to England by Italian puppeteers. The pub itself was established later in 1787, becoming a landmark that commemorates this rich theatrical tradition. Its location near St Paul’s Church, where a commemorative plaque marks the historic puppet performance, ties the pub deeply to London's entertainment history.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Punch & Judy pub is a Grade II listed building, notable for surviving the extensive bomb damage of World War II that affected much of Covent Garden. Its 18th-century architecture includes a distinctive balcony that offers views over the bustling piazza, where street performers and markets continue to enliven the area. Inside, the pub features an unusual layout with no ground floor bar but inviting upper and basement rooms. The basement’s barrel-vaulted design creates an intimate atmosphere ideal for traditional pub gatherings.A Hub for Traditional Fare and Social Life
Serving classic Greene King ales and traditional British pub food, the Punch & Judy provides a welcoming environment for locals and tourists alike. The pub’s menu complements its historic ambiance, offering a taste of quintessential London hospitality. Its beer garden and balcony are popular spots for enjoying the vibrant street performances and market activity below, making it a lively social hub in the heart of Covent Garden.Celebrating Puppet Heritage
The pub’s name and location celebrate the enduring legacy of Punch and Judy shows, which evolved from adult-oriented marionette performances to family-friendly glove puppet entertainment by the Victorian era. The shows, once known for their macabre and slapstick humor, remain a beloved part of British seaside and street culture. Covent Garden continues to honor this tradition annually with Punch and Judy festivals and performances near St Paul’s Church, linking past and present theatrical arts.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Punch & Judy pub experience a blend of historic charm and lively urban energy. The balcony provides a unique vantage point to watch Covent Garden’s famous street performers, while the cozy basement offers a refuge for relaxed socializing. The pub’s family-friendly atmosphere, combined with its cultural significance, makes it a memorable stop for those exploring London’s theatrical and social heritage.Legacy and Modern Relevance
Today, the Punch & Judy pub stands as one of Covent Garden’s few surviving 18th-century buildings, embodying centuries of entertainment history. It remains a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional British culture amidst the modern vibrancy of London’s West End. Whether enjoying a pint or reflecting on the puppet shows that inspired its name, visitors engage with a living piece of London’s artistic past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Plaque: David Garrick
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Bow St
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Music at Covent Garden
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St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
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Covent Garden
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Jubilee Market
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London Transport Museum
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Royal Ballet and Opera
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London Film Museum
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Vaudeville Theatre
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Adelphi Theatre
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Bow Street Police Museum
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Lyceum Theatre
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Theatre Royal Drury Lane
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Savoy Theatre
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Fortune Theatre
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Essential places to dine
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Rules
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Clos Maggiore
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Balthazar
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Inamo Covent Garden
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Hawksmoor Seven Dials
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Sarastro
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Circus
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Margot
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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St Martin's Courtyard
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Urban Outfitters
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Good
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Pop Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Historic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
