Neal's Yard: a place to visit

One of London's most neglected neighborhoods is located in the heart of Covent Garden. Neal's Yard.

Here's everything you need to know about it!

Neal's Yard: article summary

Neal's Yard: at a glance

This atypical neighborhood has everything you need for a great afternoon out. On site, you'll find a dynamic collection of pop-ups, restaurants and independent boutiques. that really get you away from the downtown crowds.

This is where guests of London's Paddington hotels enjoy breakfast in search of a new facet of the city's gastronomic culture.

Shoppers looking for a more intimate experience will love this hidden gem. It's a place to put on your list of visits during your stay.

The story of Neal's Yard

Located in Covent Garden, Neal's Yard was once part of Covent Garden's warehouse district. Covent Garden designed by 17th-century property developer Thomas Neale, the namesake of the courtyard in question.

Mainly abandoned during the post-war period, Neal's Yard was originally a warehouse for Covent Garden's fruit and vegetable market and was bought by activist and alternative entrepreneur Nicholas Saunders in the mid-70s.

Saunders renovated the Whole Food Warehouse courtyard and warehouse and, building on its success, launched Neal's Yard Remedies, Apothecary and Bakery.

Success led to the opening of a whole series of other stores in the courtyard, many of which still exist today.

How do I find Neal's Yard in London?  

Tucked away in an alleyway between Shorts Gardens and Monmouth Street, Neal's Yard is easily accessible for guests of nearby Paddington hotels via Covent Garden and Leicester Square stations.

An incredible range of unique restaurants

Neal's Yard offers a multitude of gourmet offerings, including bakeries and wholefood ingredient stores.

One of the most notable establishments for a quick bite is St. John's Bakery, which has gathered quite a following, but started at Neal's Yard in 2018.

The bakery is probably most famous for its cream doughnuts, but also serves freshly baked goods and bottles of artisan wine.

There are many other gastronomic options at Neal's Yard, including Neal's Yard Dairy for gourmet cheese.

Restaurants not to be missed

Neal's Yard offers tantalizing treats at the table thanks to the Wild Food Cafe, a plant-based restaurant, and the Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels, a charcuterie bar.

This neighborhood will introduce you to flavors you can't even imagine. If you are looking for new restaurants in London, this could be the place for you.

Neal's Yard: a shopper's paradise

It's not just the catering that makes the colorful square so popular with visitors. Neal's Yard is also home to Neal's Yard Apothecary, created by Nicholas Saunders and using only fair trade products for its ingredients.

In fact, almost all Neal's Yard stores are ethically sourced, just like the cause Saunders championed before his death in the 90s.

Other stores include Neal's Yard Remedies for natural skin products and a hairdresser called Hair By Fairy.

Neal's Yard in London is a place you must visit at least once in your life. Here, you'll discover a space unlike any other which stands out from the rest of the overcrowded tourist sites.

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