Covent Garden: The Heartbeat of London's Theatre and Shopping District
Discover the vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern-day excitement in Covent Garden, London's premier destination for shopping, dining, and theatre.
Covent Garden is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood located in the heart of London. Famous for its rich history and cultural significance, it is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a blend of traditional British charm and modern-day excitement. The area is renowned for its historic piazza, which dates back to the 17th century and is now a hub for street performers, market stalls, and chic boutiques. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and you will find an array of world-class restaurants, quaint cafes, and high-end shops. The Apple Market is a particular highlight, offering handmade crafts and antiques. For theatre enthusiasts, Covent Garden is home to the Royal Opera House and numerous West End theatres, making it the perfect place to catch a show. Art lovers will appreciate the area's numerous galleries, while foodies can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights, from traditional British fare to international cuisine. The neighbourhood's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by its numerous pubs and bars, making it a great spot for nightlife as well. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or simply soak in the local culture, Covent Garden has something for everyone.
Local tips in Covent Garden
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the market stalls at their best.
- Check the schedule at the Royal Opera House in advance to book tickets for performances.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and hidden gems of Covent Garden.
- Don’t miss the street performers in the piazza; they are a quintessential part of the Covent Garden experience.
- If you’re visiting during the weekend, explore the Jubilee Market for unique crafts and goods.
Covent Garden: The Heartbeat of London's Theatre and Shopping District
Covent Garden is a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood located in the heart of London. Famous for its rich history and cultural significance, it is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a blend of traditional British charm and modern-day excitement. The area is renowned for its historic piazza, which dates back to the 17th century and is now a hub for street performers, market stalls, and chic boutiques. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and you will find an array of world-class restaurants, quaint cafes, and high-end shops. The Apple Market is a particular highlight, offering handmade crafts and antiques. For theatre enthusiasts, Covent Garden is home to the Royal Opera House and numerous West End theatres, making it the perfect place to catch a show. Art lovers will appreciate the area's numerous galleries, while foodies can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights, from traditional British fare to international cuisine. The neighbourhood's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by its numerous pubs and bars, making it a great spot for nightlife as well. Whether you're looking to shop, dine, or simply soak in the local culture, Covent Garden has something for everyone.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trafalgar Square
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Covent Garden
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Big Ben
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Leicester Square
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Royal Opera House
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Victoria Embankment Gardens
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Agatha Christie memorial
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Hidden London - Aldwych Station
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Eleanor Cross
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Historic Seven Dials
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Huntfun Covent Garden
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Bomber Harris Memorial
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Covent Garden, street shows
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Slingsby Place
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Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
lastminute.com London Eye
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London's skyline from the iconic London Eye, a must-visit tourist attraction on the River Thames.
The British Museum
Explore the British Museum, a treasure trove of global history and culture in London, featuring artifacts from ancient to modern times.
Trafalgar Square
Explore the vibrant atmosphere and historical significance of Trafalgar Square, a central landmark in London offering culture and art.
Big Ben
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
The National Gallery
Discover the artistic treasures of The National Gallery, a premier art museum in London featuring masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and more.
Leicester Square
Experience the vibrant heart of London at Leicester Square, where culture, cinema, and culinary delights come together in an iconic setting.
London Transport Museum
Explore the rich history of London's transport at the London Transport Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits and iconic vehicles in a vibrant setting.
Jubilee Market
Explore Jubilee Market, a vibrant marketplace in London offering unique gifts, local delicacies, and a rich cultural experience.
The Graffiti Tunnel
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Victoria Embankment Gardens
Discover the tranquility of Victoria Embankment Gardens, a scenic park in London featuring stunning landscapes, historic monuments, and a perfect family-friendly atmosphere.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
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Somerset House
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The Queen’s Walk
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Hidden London - Aldwych Station
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Scenes in the Square Sculpture Trail
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Essential places to dine
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Inamo Covent Garden
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Balthazar
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Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
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Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Palm Court Brasserie
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Chez Antoinette
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Margot
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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M&M'S London
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Forbidden Planet London Megastore
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St Martin's Courtyard
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The Moomin Shop London
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Rokit Covent Garden
Discover timeless fashion and unique vintage finds at Rokit Covent Garden, the ultimate destination for style enthusiasts in London.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
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Urban Outfitters
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MUJI Covent Garden Store
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Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Covent Garden
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Mr Fogg's Tavern
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Blame Gloria - Covent Garden
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Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
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Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
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Mrs Riot
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Covent Garden Social Club
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Crusting Pipe
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Plume Wine Bar
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Eve Bar Covent Garden
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Local Phrases
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- HelloAlright mate
[al-rite mate] - GoodbyeTa-ra
[ta-ra] - YesAye
[ay] - NoNah
[nah] - Please/You're welcomeTa/No worries
[ta/no wuh-reez] - Thank youCheers
[cheers] - Excuse me/SorryPardon/Soz
[par-dun/soz] - How are you?You alright?
[yoo al-rite] - Fine. And you?Sound. You?
[sownd. yoo] - Do you speak English?You speak English?
[yoo speek ing-glish] - I don't understandI ain't got a scooby
[I aint got a scoo-bee]
- HelloAlright mate
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
[kan I see the menu, please] - I don't eat meatI'm veggie
[I'm ved-jee] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please
[kan I pay, please]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
-
- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Sod off!
[sod off] - Call the Police!Ring the Old Bill!
[ring the old bill] - Call a doctor!Get a doc!
[get a doc] - I'm lostI'm lost
[I'm lost] - I'm illI'm poorly
[I'm poor-lee]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
[I wanna buy] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just brows-ing] - How much is it?How much?
[how much] - That's too expensiveThat's a rip off
[that's a rip off] - Can you lower the price?Can you do it cheaper?
[kan yoo do it chee-per]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
-
- What time is it?What's the time?
[whats the time] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[its one] - Half past (10)Half ten
[half ten] - MorningMorning
[morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[afternoon] - EveningEvenin'
[evenin] - YesterdayYesterday
[yest-uh-day] - TodayToday
[to-day] - TomorrowTomorra
[tom-or-ra] - 1One
[wun] - 2Two
[too] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[four] - 5Five
[five] - 6Six
[six] - 7Seven
[seven] - 8Eight
[eight] - 9Nine
[nine] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?What's the time?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[wheres the] - What's the address?What's the addy?
[whats the addy] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
[kan yoo point it out] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
[whens the next bus] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
[a ticket to]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of Covent Garden
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Covent Garden's history dates back to the 13th century when it was originally a convent garden belonging to the monks of the Convent of St. Martin. The name 'Covent Garden' derives from this heritage, with 'covent' referring to the convent and 'garden' indicating the cultivated land. The area became a market space in the 17th century, evolving into a hub of activity.
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In the 1600s, the 4th Earl of Southampton commissioned the construction of the Covent Garden Market. The market quickly became a vibrant center for the sale of fruits, vegetables, and flowers, attracting traders and shoppers alike. Over the centuries, it underwent various transformations, officially becoming a fruit and vegetable market until its closure in 1974.
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Covent Garden emerged as a cultural epicenter during the 18th century, largely due to the establishment of the Royal Opera House in 1732. This venue attracted renowned artists, musicians, and playwrights, making Covent Garden synonymous with high culture and entertainment. The area thrived as a hotspot for theatrical performances and operas, helping to shape London's cultural landscape.
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In the mid-19th century, the market was relocated, and the former market square was transformed into the Piazza we recognize today. The new design included elegant architecture and public spaces, solidifying Covent Garden's status as a fashionable destination for both locals and tourists. The Piazza became a social hub, hosting street performers and various events.
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The 1960s marked a period of revitalization for Covent Garden, as it became a focal point for London's burgeoning arts scene. The area attracted artists, musicians, and performers, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. The establishment of the Covent Garden Market Authority in 1973 helped to preserve its historical significance while fostering a diverse cultural environment.
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Today, Covent Garden is a popular shopping and entertainment district, known for its boutiques, restaurants, and street performances. The Royal Opera House continues to host world-class productions, while the area remains a testament to London's rich history and dynamic culture. Covent Garden's historical layers coexist with contemporary life, making it a unique destination.
Covent Garden Essentials
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Covent Garden is centrally located in London, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. The nearest tube station is Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), which provides direct access to areas like Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square. Other nearby stations include Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern Lines) and Holborn (Central and Piccadilly Lines). Buses also serve the area extensively, with routes 1, 59, 68, 91, and 168 stopping nearby. If traveling from Heathrow Airport, the Heathrow Express to Paddington followed by a tube transfer is a convenient option.
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Covent Garden is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. The area is well-served by public transport, including buses and the London Underground. Bicycles can be rented through the Santander Cycles scheme, with docking stations located nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available for those preferring not to walk. For longer distances, consider using the tube or bus services, which connect to the wider London transport network.
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Covent Garden is generally safe for tourists, but like any busy area, it is important to stay vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, especially around market stalls and popular tourist attractions. Areas to be cautious of include the vicinity of the Royal Opera House at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly when using public transport or in crowded areas.
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In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, and medical assistance. Local hospitals, such as the Royal London Hospital, provide emergency services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, there are several pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress comfortably as Covent Garden can be busy; don’t wear overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting nearby religious sites; don’t take photos in places that prohibit it. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly or disabled individuals; don’t speak loudly or eat on the Tube. Greetings: Do greet shopkeepers and locals with a smile; don’t ignore people when they offer assistance. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and street food; don’t engage in public drunkenness or littering.
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To experience Covent Garden like a local, visit the Apple Market for unique arts and crafts. Enjoy street performances, which are a staple of the area, and don’t hesitate to engage with the performers. Try to explore the hidden gems, such as Neal's Yard, a colorful courtyard filled with cafes and shops. For dining, seek out lesser-known restaurants for authentic local dishes, and if you're in the area during the evening, consider catching a show at the nearby theatre district.
Trending Landmarks in Covent Garden
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Trafalgar Square
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Covent Garden
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Big Ben
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Leicester Square
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Royal Opera House
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Victoria Embankment Gardens
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Agatha Christie memorial
-
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
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Eleanor Cross
-
Historic Seven Dials
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Huntfun Covent Garden
-
Bomber Harris Memorial
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Covent Garden, street shows
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Slingsby Place
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Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
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