10 Charming Things to do in Covent Garden

Located in London’s famous West end (many musicals and plays are here) Covent Garden is a hub for fashion, shopping, entertainment, food and drink. It was once a flower, vegetable and fruit market.

Presently with street entertainers, craft stalls at Apple Market, and shopping comparable to Oxford street without the crowds, it’s an area Londoners love to hate. It’s car-free Piazza attracts many visitors and is one of the best areas in London that you cannot miss. Related: A Local’s Guide to Two Days in London

There is a wonderful mix of big-brand and independent everywhere you look in Covent Garden. For every name-brand or designer store, there is an independent boutique-style offering too, making it a great place to buy gifts.

It is charming for so many reasons and has so many picture-perfect spots with its floral street boutiques, markets and many places to stop for a drink, coffee or tea. Not only is Covent Garden lively but some of its quiet side streets will steal your attention with their charm.

Covent Garden is not just famous for its market and high-end stores, but it’s also a part of cinema history, as demonstrated in Frenzy by Alfred Hitchcock (1972), whose father was a market trader in Covent Garden!

For any Americans like me, whenever you miss home, head to Maxwell’s Bar & Grill on King St! They offer plenty of classic American dishes and a range of Cocktails.

For those seeking an intellectual pursuit, the British Transport Museum is situated at one end of the plaza. They offer fantastic tours, as well as plenty of family fun within the museum.

Of course, you can’t forget one of my favourite afternoon tea spots: The Delaunay

Things to do in Covent Garden

1. Afternoon Tea at the Delaunay 
2. Apple Market
3. Seven Dials Market
4. Neals Yard
5. Cecil Court
6. Stanfords
7. Rose Street
8. Floral Street
9. King Street
10. Petersham Nurseries
    

Explore More London Neighborhoods with these guides

1. 10 London Villages you Must Visit
2. A Neighborhood Guide to London’s Marylebone
3. 17 Things to Do & Eat in London Bridge
4. Secret Things You Must do In London’s Soho