Punch & Judy Pub, Covent Garden: A Historic London Landmark Steeped in Theatrical Tradition
Historic Covent Garden pub named after iconic puppet shows, blending lively atmosphere, traditional fare, and vibrant street views.
Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden at 40 The Market, the Punch & Judy pub stands as a vibrant tribute to London's rich theatrical and puppetry heritage. Named after the iconic Punch and Judy puppet shows first recorded here in 1662, this historic pub offers a lively atmosphere, traditional British pub fare, and striking views of the bustling market and street performers. Its multi-level interior combines old-world charm with modern hospitality, making it a unique destination for both locals and tourists.
A brief summary to Punch & Judy
- 40 The Market, London, WC2E 8RF, GB
- +442073790923
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
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 upper floor balcony for excellent views of Covent Garden’s street performers and market activity.
- Try the Sunday roast or steak and ale pie for a classic British pub meal with quality ingredients.
- Be aware that the pub operates across multiple levels with stairs, which may affect accessibility.
- Enjoy the rotating beer selection to sample different brews, often praised for their quality.
- Plan your visit during May to experience traditional Punch and Judy puppet shows nearby in St Paul’s churchyard.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Piccadilly or Central Line to Covent Garden station, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the pub. The station has limited step-free access and can be busy during peak hours. Single fares cost around £2.50–£4.00 depending on time and ticket type.
-
Bus
Bus routes 9, 15, 23, 139, and 176 serve stops near Covent Garden. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations. Buses accept contactless payments and Oyster cards, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to 40 The Market. Travel times depend on traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25, varying by time and demand.
-
Walking
If staying nearby, walking is an excellent option. Covent Garden is pedestrian-friendly, with flat terrain and plenty of sights en route. Walking times from Leicester Square or Holborn stations are about 10-15 minutes.
Punch & Judy location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Punch & Judy
Legacy of London's Theatrical Roots
The Punch & Judy pub is deeply intertwined with the history of London's entertainment culture. Its name commemorates the famous Punch and Judy puppet shows, first documented in Covent Garden by diarist Samuel Pepys in 1662. These shows originated from the Italian commedia dell’arte tradition and evolved from marionette performances to the glove puppet style known today. The anarchic Mr Punch, with his slapstick antics, became a beloved yet controversial figure, embodying centuries of subversive street theatre that captivated audiences across London and beyond.Architectural Character and Atmosphere
Built in 1787, the pub is a listed building and one of the few in the Covent Garden area to survive World War II bombings intact. Its multi-level design includes a cozy basement, a lively ground floor, and an upper floor with a balcony overlooking the vibrant market square and the historic St Paul's Church. The interior balances traditional pub aesthetics with a welcoming atmosphere, featuring centuries-old windowpanes and warm lighting that enhance its historic charm. This layered layout offers diverse ambiences, from intimate corners to lively spaces perfect for watching street performances.Culinary and Beverage Experience
Punch & Judy serves classic British pub fare with a focus on quality and authenticity. Signature dishes such as the Sunday roast and steak and ale pie are complemented by a rotating selection of beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. While the menu is straightforward, it aims to satisfy with hearty portions and well-executed recipes. The pub’s beverage offerings include well-poured pints and carefully selected beers, often praised for their quality and variety, enhancing the overall dining experience.A Hub for Social and Cultural Engagement
Located in the bustling Covent Garden, the Punch & Judy pub is more than just a place to eat and drink; it is a social hub where tourists and locals mingle. The balcony provides a prime vantage point for enjoying the street entertainers who animate the square, linking the pub’s present-day vibrancy with the historic tradition of public performance. Occasional live music events add to the lively atmosphere, making it a versatile venue for various social occasions.Balancing Tourist Appeal with Local Charm
Though often frequented by visitors drawn to its historic name and prime location, the Punch & Judy manages to retain a genuine pub spirit. It offers refuge from the busy market crowds and a place where locals can unwind. Despite its tourist popularity, the pub maintains a friendly and accommodating staff, contributing to its welcoming vibe. Its dog-friendly policy and varied seating options across floors further add to its inclusive character.Continuing the Punch & Judy Tradition
The pub’s connection to the centuries-old Punch and Judy puppet tradition is celebrated annually with performances in nearby St Paul’s churchyard, keeping the legacy alive. This enduring cultural link enriches the visitor experience, providing a tangible connection to London’s theatrical past and the evolution of popular entertainment from street puppetry to modern-day festivities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Plaque: David Garrick
0.1 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Bow St
0.2 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Strand
0.2 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
John Adam St & Adam St
0.3 km
Explore John Adam Street & Adam Street, heart of the Adam brothers’ neoclassical Adelphi development, blending Georgian elegance with modern London vibrancy.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.3 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.3 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.4 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
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.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.4 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Neal’s Yard (Courtyard)
0.4 km
Discover Neal’s Yard, a colorful hidden courtyard in Covent Garden transformed from dereliction into a thriving hub of community, sustainability, and alternative culture.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.4 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
York Watergate
0.4 km
Discover the York Watergate, a rare 17th-century gateway marking the old Thames riverside and London's vanished aristocratic waterfront.
Eleanor Cross
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.4 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Victoria Embankment
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Covent Garden
0.0 km
Historic market piazza and cultural hotspot blending world-class theatre, vibrant street life, luxury shopping, and diverse dining in London’s West End.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant legacy of Covent Garden’s world-famous street performers, bringing daily magic and artistry to London’s historic piazza.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.0 km
Explore Covent Garden through an engaging self-guided treasure hunt blending history, artisan markets, and lively street performances.
Music at Covent Garden
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant live music and rich cultural heritage at Covent Garden, London's iconic West End soundscape.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility of St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden, a historical sanctuary for the arts in the heart of London.
Jubilee Market
0.1 km
Historic Covent Garden market with antiques, crafts, and vibrant food stalls in a lively, iconic London setting.
London Transport Museum
0.1 km
Explore over 200 years of London’s transport history through iconic vehicles, interactive exhibits, and hidden underground tours in Covent Garden.
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.
Floral Street
0.1 km
Discover Floral Street’s vibrant, sustainable floral fragrances in London’s stylish Covent Garden flagship store.
London Film Museum
0.1 km
Explore the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles in London’s vibrant Covent Garden hub.
Vaudeville Theatre
0.2 km
Historic West End theatre with intimate seating, acclaimed productions, and a prime Strand location near London’s cultural landmarks.
Adelphi Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class musicals and rich theatrical history in the elegant Art Deco setting of London’s Adelphi Theatre on the iconic Strand.
Bow Street Police Museum
0.2 km
Explore London’s pioneering policing history and iconic court cases at the Bow Street Museum of Crime and Justice in Covent Garden.
Lyceum Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in the historic Lyceum Theatre, home to The Lion King and a jewel of London’s cultural scene.
Slingsby Place
0.2 km
Discover the serene charm of Slingsby Place, a historic pedestrian courtyard in Covent Garden with lush greenery, dining, and cultural flair.
Essential places to dine
Chez Antoinette
0.0 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.1 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.1 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Rules
0.1 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Clos Maggiore
0.1 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Balthazar
0.1 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.1 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
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.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.3 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
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.
Sarastro
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Circus
0.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Margot
0.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Moomin Shop London
0.0 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.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.0 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.2 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.2 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
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.
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.
Good
0.3 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
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.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.3 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.4 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.4 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
0.4 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
House of Spells
0.4 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Unique Britain
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crusting Pipe
0.1 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.
Mrs Riot
0.1 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.1 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Upstairs At Rules
0.1 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.1 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.1 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
0.2 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.
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.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.2 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.
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.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Beaufort Bar
0.2 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
0.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Oriole
0.2 km
Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.3 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 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 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.
The Ivy Club
0.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Carwash Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Penthouse London
0.5 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Club49Soho
0.6 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.6 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
TSQ Club
0.7 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Luxe Club
0.7 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Tiger Tiger London
0.7 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Sophisticats Soho
0.7 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly