St Martin's Courtyard
Covent Garden's chic courtyard escape: stylish shops, global eats, and pop-up magic in a reborn urban haven.
Hidden in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, St Martin's Courtyard transforms a former parking lot into a chic open-air haven. This interconnected series of pedestrian courtyards buzzes with stylish boutiques, diverse eateries from Italian cicchetti to modern British brunch spots, and beauty salons. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame lively dining scenes, while pop-up events and workshops add an element of discovery. Open daily from 9am till late, it's an ideal escape from the surrounding theatre district hustle, blending shopping, dining, and relaxed urban charm in central London.
A brief summary to St Martin's Courtyard
- St Martin's Courtyard, Slingsby Pl, London, WC2H 9EF, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
- Thursday 9 am-12 am
- Friday 9 am-12 am
- Saturday 9 am-12 am
- Sunday 9 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit Bill's for bottomless pancakes daily from 3pm-5pm, paired with courtyard views.
- Book beauty treatments at Blow Ltd for quick glam before theatre shows.
- Explore pop-ups and workshops via The Yards events calendar for unique finds.
- Opt for al fresco dining on sunny days to soak in the lively pedestrian vibe.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Tube
From Leicester Square station (Piccadilly/Northern lines), 5-7 minute walk via Charing Cross Road; frequent services every 2-4 minutes, no fees beyond standard fares £2.50-£3.20.
-
Bus
RV1 bus from Trafalgar Square to Covent Garden stop, 8-12 minutes; runs every 10-15 minutes daytime, single ticket £1.75, limited space for large groups.
-
Walking
From Covent Garden Piazza, 4-6 minute stroll along Long Acre to Slingsby Place; flat pavements, wheelchair-friendly but busy with crowds during peak hours.
-
Taxi
Black cab from Soho or Strand, 5-10 minutes depending on traffic; meter starts at £3.80, typical fare £8-£12, drop-off restrictions apply evenings.
St Martin's Courtyard location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St Martin's Courtyard
From Concrete to Covent Garden Gem
Once an unremarkable car park amid the bustle of central London, St Martin's Courtyard emerged through visionary redevelopment into a pedestrian-friendly oasis. Tucked off Long Acre and Upper St Martin's Lane at the end of Slingsby Place, this spot peels back layers of urban grit to reveal airy courtyards lined with contemporary shops and eateries. The transformation preserved the area's historic character while introducing modern allure, making it a seamless part of The Yards collection that spans Mercer Walk and nearby streets.Dining Delights in Open-Air Splendor
Culinary options abound, drawing food lovers with diverse flavors. Bill's offers all-day dining from breakfast pancakes to evening cocktails, its spacious setup spilling onto the courtyard for al fresco meals. Nearby, Dalla Terra serves Italian small plates like salumi boards through expansive windows that blur indoor and outdoor boundaries. Brother Marcus brings Middle Eastern influences, Lahpet West End Burmese specialties, and Ukiyo handrolls Japanese precision, creating a global tapestry perfect for pre-theatre bites or leisurely lunches.Shopping and Style Sanctuaries
Boutiques cater to fashion-forward visitors, stocking unique homeware, beauty products, and lifestyle essentials. Blow Ltd stands out with swift beauty services—blow dries, manicures, and makeup in under an hour—ideal for refreshing before a night out. Fair Shot Cafe provides coffee pit stops amid the retail rhythm, while pop-up shops rotate to keep the scene fresh and unpredictable.Events and Experiential Energy
Beyond retail and refreshment, St Martin's Courtyard pulses with happenings. High-energy dance classes, film-making workshops, and seasonal events fill the space, turning it into a creative hub. Its position in London's theatreland enhances the vibe, with easy proximity to shows at nearby St Martin's Theatre. The courtyard's design encourages lingering, with interconnected paths inviting spontaneous exploration.Atmospheric Allure Year-Round
Daylight filters through glass-fronted facades, casting a bright, inviting glow, while evenings bring cosy lighting and lively chatter from diners. The open layout fosters a sense of community in Covent Garden's dense core, offering shelter from rain under covered walkways yet plenty of skyward views. This blend of accessibility and intimacy cements its status as a beloved local secret.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agatha Christie memorial
0.1 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Historic Seven Dials
0.2 km
Discover Seven Dials, a historic London quarter where seven streets meet at a unique sundial pillar, blending rich heritage with vibrant culture.
Harry Potter Statue
0.3 km
Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.
Leicester Square
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London at Leicester Square, a cultural and entertainment hub filled with theaters, cinemas, and diverse dining options.
Mr Bean Statue
0.3 km
Explore the whimsical Mr. Bean Statue in Leicester Square, a must-see landmark that captures the charm and humor of British culture in the heart of London.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.3 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Royal Opera House
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.3 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Bow St
0.3 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Self-Guided Audio Tour - London's Soho, Theatreland and Chinatown
0.4 km
Discover the rich culture and vibrant nightlife of London's Soho, Theatreland, and Chinatown with a self-guided audio tour.
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.4 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Swiss Glockenspiel
0.4 km
A 10-metre Swiss timepiece performing mechanical magic in London's West End, where Alpine tradition meets modern precision.
St Giles in the Fields
0.4 km
Medieval leper hospital turned Palladian masterpiece—nearly 1000 years of London's sacred and troubled history
Chinatown Gate
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
Plaque: Tin Pan Alley & La Giaconda cafe
0.4 km
Discover the legendary Tin Pan Alley and La Giaconda Cafe at 9 Denmark Street, the historic heart of London’s music scene and creative spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
West End
0.0 km
Experience London’s vibrant West End, the iconic hub of world-class theatres, premier shopping streets, and rich cultural heritage.
Slingsby Place
0.1 km
Discover the serene charm of Slingsby Place, a historic pedestrian courtyard in Covent Garden with lush greenery, dining, and cultural flair.
Arts Theatre
0.1 km
A historic, intimate West End theatre offering close-up performances in a cozy setting since 1927.
St. Martin's Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre famed for hosting The Mousetrap, offering intimate performances in a charming Georgian setting near Seven Dials.
Mercer Walk
0.1 km
Discover Mercer Walk, a charming cobbled alley in Covent Garden filled with boutiques, cafes, and artistic flair, offering a peaceful urban retreat.
Noël Coward Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre blending classical elegance with world-class drama and comedy in the heart of London’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Ambassadors Theatre
0.1 km
Experience intimate West End theatre history and timeless performances at the charming Ambassadors Theatre in London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.1 km
Discover rare literary treasures and timeless classics at Henry Pordes Books, a cherished second-hand bookshop on historic Charing Cross Road.
Goodwin’s Court
0.1 km
Step into Goodwin’s Court, a hidden Georgian alley in Covent Garden where history, mystery, and cinematic magic blend in timeless charm.
Floral Street
0.1 km
Discover Floral Street’s vibrant, sustainable floral fragrances in London’s stylish Covent Garden flagship store.
Charing Cross Rd
0.2 km
Explore Charing Cross Road, London’s iconic street famed for legendary bookshops, theatres, and a vibrant cultural pulse in the West End.
House of Spells
0.2 km
Step into House of Spells, London’s enchanting two-floor shop offering authentic Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles in a magical, immersive setting.
The Hippodrome Casino London
0.2 km
Experience London’s iconic Hippodrome Casino: historic grandeur meets 24/7 gaming, fine dining, and world-class live entertainment in Leicester Square.
Cambridge Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class West End theatre in an intimate Art Deco venue at the heart of London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Cecil Court
0.2 km
Discover Cecil Court, a historic London street famed for its Victorian charm, rare bookshops, early cinema heritage, and a brief Mozart residency.
Essential places to dine
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.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.2 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.2 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.2 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
La Bodega Negra Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience daring Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife in Soho’s provocative La Bodega Negra, where edgy ambiance meets inventive flavors.
Chez Antoinette
0.3 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.3 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Rules
0.3 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Circus
0.3 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Meet Fresh
0.3 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Gauthier Soho
0.3 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 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.
Unique Britain
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
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.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
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.
The Moomin Shop London
0.3 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.
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.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.3 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
Cool Britania
0.3 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Foyles
0.3 km
London's legendary independent bookshop where literary heritage meets contemporary retail excellence.
Forbidden Planet London Megastore
0.3 km
London’s ultimate destination for comics, collectibles, and cult pop culture treasures in the heart of the West End.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oriole
0.1 km
Oriole invites you on a captivating global cocktail journey in Covent Garden, blending exotic flavours, elegant ambiance, and live music.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.1 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.1 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.1 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
Blind Spot London
0.2 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
The Escapologist Bar
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
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.
Ku Bar
0.2 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.2 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.
Mrs Riot
0.3 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Bar Termini
0.3 km
An intimate Soho gem blending Italian cocktail artistry with a cozy, elegant atmosphere in London’s vibrant West End.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.3 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Upstairs At Rules
0.3 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Swift Soho
0.3 km
Soho's split-level cocktail gem: aperitivo elegance upstairs, whisky-laced intimacy below, with live jazz and legendary mixes drawing night owls to Old Compton Street.
Crusting Pipe
0.3 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.1 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 Ivy Club
0.1 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Roxy
0.3 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 Penthouse London
0.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Club49Soho
0.4 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
0.4 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
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.
Luxe Club
0.5 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Sophisticats Soho
0.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger London
0.5 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.5 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
Heaven
0.5 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.
The Box Soho
0.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Carwash Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly