In this article, I present the Covent Garden districtwith street entertainment and a superb covered market!
Here you'll find
- An introduction to Covent Garden
- What to see and do in this central district
- How to get here easily
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, advice
- Things to see and do in the area
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Covent Garden, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Covent Garden: article summary
Covent Garden, a London district with timeless charm
This is a central London districtlocated between Westminster and SohoYou're sure to pass through it during your stay in the capital.
Known for its historic old market, lively streets, entertainment and shopping venues, it's a district to visit. visit Londonto enjoy its special atmosphere. Here it is!
Introduction to Covent Garden
The name Covent Garden - or the convent garden - reminds us that this neighborhood was originally part of the gardens of Westminster Abbey 1.5 km to the south.
It took its present form in the early 17th centuryThe Earl of Bedford was inspired by the market towns of the time. He commissioned the architect Inigo Jones to build a central square, modelled on the Piazza Italian Renaissance star.
This urban characteristic made it a distinctive feature of London at the time and had a major influence on its development. local urban planning later. In 1654, a fruit and vegetable market was established on the site of today's indoor shopping center.
As early as the 18th century, Covent Garden was transformed into a red-light district, with an influx of prostitutes in brothels, taverns and bars, driving away the wealthy. On the other hand, artists and other intellectuals set up shop here. It gradually became a place of entertainment.
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From 1980 onwards, the central square was home to the shopping mall and became a thoroughfare for many visitors, both local and foreign. Shows were staged in the theaters that opened, museums and art galleries were established, and today it's the only place in town where you can see the world of art. London district where street performances still have the right to sit!
Covent Garden facts and figures
- In 2005, a Avenue of Stars is created, a kind of equivalent to theHollywood Walk of Fame stars such as Alec Guinness (aka Obi Wan Kenobi), Nicole Kidman, the Rolling Stone, Pink Floyd and Robbie Williams.
- More than 60 bars and pubs in Covent Garden!
- 13 theaters are located in the district
- Every day (except at Christmas) you can enjoy street performances in the central square.
What can you see and do in Covent Garden?
There's a lot to do in Covent Garden. Here are my suggestions, so you don't miss out on any of the coolest activities!
Discover Covent Garden Market
This is the main attraction, for a shopping session or a coffee break in this covered shopping center that stands in place of the historic market.
It's open daily from 10am to 6pm (until 5pm on Sundays) and comprises a series of zones, divided into submarkets: the Jubilee Market just across the street, with its antiques and handicrafts; Apple Marketwith dozens of souvenir and craft stalls.
Attend a performance at the Royal Opera House
This superb opera house is sometimes referred to as Covent Garden, like the neighborhood, which gives you an idea of the importance of the place.
The an iconic venueThe Opera House, which hosts renowned performances, can be visited daily, with a guide available on site. Explore this building, one of the world's finest opera houses!
On Mondays, you can even attend a free concert!
Visit the London Transport Museum
There are some superb museums in London, starting with the unmissable British Museum. Although the Transport Museum is not as large as the latter, it is nonetheless very interesting.
You'll discover the history of London's means of transportWe'll be delighted to welcome you to our showroom, where you'll be able to admire a number of collectors' items (carriages, locomotives, carriages, streetcars, buses and old subways), as well as a host of other objects, for a visit that will take you back in time.
Visit Drury Lane Theatre
It's the theater the London's oldestIt was built in 1663.
A true symbol of the Covent Garden district, this Broadway In 2023, it will host the Snow Queen musical, An evening with (the genius) Nick Offermanthe Wizard of Oz or a musical based on Back to the Future !
Stroll through the colourful alleyway of Neal's Yard
Neal's Yard is a colorful little streetA place that doesn't seem London at all. An atypical little corner to discover over a coffee or a visit to the designer boutiques.
Leicester Square
This large pedestrian square is home to numerous department stores, cinemas and bars, which you'll want to visit if you want to stop off during your visit.
It's up to Leicester Square is home to the largest LEGO store in the world, with its incredible replicas of Big Benthe metro, the world of Harry Potter and other major monuments in the capital!
See the church of St PaulÂ
Also known as the Church of the Actors, St. Paul's is simple and unpretentious, but well worth a look for its commemorative plaques on the walls, paying tribute to major artists from the world of 7e art!
How do I get to Covent Garden?
Covent Garden is easily accessible via :
- The metroPiccadilly line, Covent Garden or Leicester Square stop (via Piccadilly or Northern line).
- By bus, lines 9, 13, 15, 23, 139, 153 and RV1
Covent Garden: opening hours and practical information
Here's some additional information you should know before visiting Covent Garden!
Opening hours
Stores are open between 10am and 6pm every day, with some establishments only closing after 9pm, 10pm or 11pm.
On Sundays, some venues close earlier (around 6pm).
Count on at least 2 hours in the neighborhood, to see the essentials. But it's possible to spend more time here if you want to explore it in depth!
Visiting tips
At Christmas time, the neighborhood is transformed and decked out in Christmas colors, with lights, decorations and themed shows. If you're in the area at this time of year, don't hesitate because the atmosphere is magical !
What to see and do in the area?
Because of its central location, Covent Garden is surrounded by places to see. You'll always find something to keep you busy. Here are a few ideas for continuing your visit:
- Descend to the unmissable Place de Trafalgar Square
- Walk (approx. 10 minutes) to Piccadilly Circuswith its illuminated screens and electric atmosphere!
- Discover the Local Chinatowna stone's throw away, for a mini trip to Chinawith a change of scenery guaranteed!
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