London/Covent Garden – Travel guide at Wikivoyage Location of the Covent Garden area in London Covent Garden is a district of central London . Understand[ edit ] This is one of the main shopping and entertainment districts of the English capital and is hugely popular with visitors, who swarm to its shops, bars and restaurants, especially at weekends. Covent Garden incorporates some of London's Theatreland and also forms a smaller extension to London's gay village that is centred on the neighbouring district of Soho . Covent Garden takes its name from history; it used to be Convent Garden many years ago and over the years this has changed to Covent Garden. This is an extensive area of high density building and narrow streets, officially bounded by High Holborn and New Oxford Street to the north, by Kingsway to the east, by The Strand to the south and by Charing Cross Road to the west. For all practical purposes, however, the district can also be seen to extend down to The Embankment along the Thames between Northumberland Avenue and Hungerford Bridge and to The Temple. The main focus of the Covent Garden district for visitors is the Covent Garden Market Piazza.

Further north, a secondary focus is Seven Dials, an intersection of seven streets, marked by a tall pillar with (you guessed it) seven (sun) dials. It is very easy for visitors to move on from here by foot to the attractions around Trafalgar and Leicester Squares , to Soho and to Bloomsbury . Get in[ edit ] Owing to the London Congestion Charge and the general shortage of parking spaces (plus stringent parking restrictions and fines), it is highly recommended that visitors to the area consider public transport to access the district. By Tube[ edit ] This district is well served by the following Tube stations: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line). Exiting Covent Garden Tube Station, turn right (southwards, downhill) to walk to the Piazza, or turn left (northwards) to find the main shopping areas of Long Acre, Neal Street and also Seven Dials. Leicester Square (Piccadilly and Northern lines). The distance between Leicester Square and Covent Garden stations on the Piccadilly line is the shortest on the whole London Tube network. It is faster to walk between the two stations. Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines). Tottenham Court Road (Northern and Central lines).

Embankment (District, Circle and Northern lines). Charing Cross (Bakerloo, District, Circle and Northern lines). Landmarks[ edit ] 51.5079411 -0.1246262 1 Charing Cross and Charing Cross Station. Old train station with an enormous office and shopping complex in glass and pale stone. A lavish hotel is also on the site. The name comes from the Queen Elenaor (13th C.) gothic pillar outside the station, which is acutally a Victorian-era replica. Charing Cross Road is famous for its vintage book shops, one stand-out is Foyle's. 51.5085 -0.1203 2 Cleopatra's Needle, Victoria Embankment, along the Thames (tube: Embankment). Cleopatra's Needle originated in the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis , in the Temple of Atum, but the Romans moved it to Alexandria in 12 BC.

In 1819, viceroy Mehemet Ali presented Cleopatra's Needle to the British, commemorating military victories in Egypt, but it remained in Alexandria until 1877 when transportation was arranged to bring it to London. On the voyage, the ship capsized in a storm, killing six crewmembers. Cleopatra's Needle was thought to be lost, but Spanish trawlers found it afloat a few days later, and after some repairs, it arrived in London on 21 Jan 1878. The obelisk is flanked by two faux-sphinxes, which show the effects of bombings of London during World War II. Today, Cleopatra's Needle shows some wear from exposure to London's damp weather. 51.5119376 -0.1227701 3 Covent Garden Piazza and Central Market (tube: Covent Garden). Once an important working market, and the backdrop for the musical My Fair Lady, Covent Garden today is a covered shopping mall with shops predominantly selling clothing, but also gifts and cosmetics, as well as stalls selling handicrafts (Tues-Sun) or antiques (Mon), and restaurants.

It's well worth a visit just for the attractive ambience, with classical musicians busking in the lower part of the market and a famous location for street entertainers. There is a popular pub, The Punch and Judy Tavern at the western end, with a large balcony overlooking a square where street entertainers perform. At the eastern end, the corresponding balcony is occupied by Chez Gerard, a restaurant selling relatively-expensive but good continental cuisine. Most shops are open 10:00-19:00 daily, but may close earlier on Sundays. 51.5115403 -0.123682 4 St. Paul's Church, Bedford St WC2 (tube: Covent Garden. At the western end of the Piazza). Completed in 1633 to a design by Inigo Jones. 51.5137671 -0.127008 5 Seven Dials (tube: Covent Garden). An intersection of seven streets in the northern part of the Covent Garden district.

Lots of mid-range designer clothing and shoe stores Museums and Galleries[ edit ] 51.5075538 -0.124948 6 Benjamin Franklin House , 36 Craven St, WC2N 5NF (tube: Charing Cross), ☎ +44 20 7839-2006 . The only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin in the world. The founding father of the United States lived here from 1757 to 1775. Many exhibits charting his life and achievements as well as original artefacts. A special Historical Experience Show runs W-Su at noon, 13:00, 14:00, 15:15, and 16:15 all year round. £7, under 16s free.. 51.5120811 -0.1212788 7 London Transport Museum , Covent Garden Piazza (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7565-7299 .

In many cities a local transport museum would be of very narrow interest - not London, however! London's public transport is iconic, and the story of how it developed from horse and cart through early buses, tube trains and trolleybuses to the present day is well worth coming to find out about. There is plenty of opportunity to clamber aboard the historic buses and Tube trains on display. Also because London's transport is so well known, the museum shop contains plenty of items that make interesting and original gifts and souvenirs. £15, concessions £11.50, accompanied children under 16 free. Theatres[ edit ] The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden Along with neighbouring Leicester Square , this is the capital of London's theatreland. For current programmes please check the relevant theatre website or the official London theatreland listings here [1] . Budget travellers should look for last minute bookings and off-peak performances. Most of the booking office numbers given will only work from within the United Kingdom. If you want to make a booking from overseas, use the relevant website. Opera[ edit ] 51.50994 -0.12630 2 English National Opera , London Colliseum, St.

Martin's Lane, WC2N 4ES (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 871 911 0200 , e-mail: box.office@eno.org . A little easier to get tickets here than it is at the Royal Opera House but still difficult for the most notable productions. Look for last minute availability and off peak performances. 51.51289 -0.12242 3 Royal Opera House , Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7304-4000 . One of the world's great Opera and Ballet venues. Peak time tickets are like gold dust and it is very unlikely that a casual visitor will be able to obtain one. However, at least 65 tickets per performance are held off for on-the-day in person sales from 10AM, and tickets are sometimes available for off peak (especially matinee) performances and can be surprisingly affordable. Check the website or at London ticket agencies.

Buy[ edit ] Shoes are a speciality of Covent Garden, particularly in Neal Street where virtually every shop sells shoes, from Birkenstocks to trainers, campers to Doc Martens. Like its neighbour Soho, Covent Garden has a wide range of clothing shops. Head to Floral Street and Long Acre for a start, but explore the back-streets too as they often house more interesting stores. If you are on a budget, head to Earlham Street for occasional clothing stalls and Oxfam Originals. The Australia Shop , 27 Maiden Ln. M-F 10:30-18:30, Sa 11:00-18:30, Su 11:00-17:30. Provides antipodean visitors with a taste of home, albeit at London prices. Ben's Cookies , 13a The Piazza (Inside the Covent Garden Market), ☎ +44 20 7240-6123 .

M-F 07:30-19:00, Sa 09:30-18:30, Su 10:30-18:30, bank holidays 10:00-18:00. Very nice cookies - try their white chocolate with macadamia cookies. Price is about £1 per cookie, and the cookies here are almost twice as big as those at Millie's. They also have branches at 12 Kensington Arcade, Kensington High St; at 39 Leadenhall Market; and at 9 Pelham St, South Kensington. Monmouth Coffee, Monmouth St (Near Seven Dials). Arguably the best coffee in London. Primarily a venue for quality coffee roasters, the shop on Monmouth street has a tasting room, i.e. a café, where you can marvel at the fact that not everywhere in London sells poor chain-café coffee. A selection of goodies such as croissants, pastries, and brownies are also available. As you would expect of a roasters you can also purchase excellent coffee in bean form or ground, with various blends to suit your taste.

Helpful and knowledgeable staff can help you make a selection. Neal's Yard Dairy , 11 Shorts Gardens, WC2H 9AT (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7240-5700 . M-Th 11:00-18:30, F Sa 10:00-18:30. A fabulous cheese shop specialising in British cheeses. The smell as you walk up the street can be enticing or repulsive, depending on your preference for fragrant cheese. But regardless, a trip to this shop is well worthwhile. Whether they are busy or not, the staff are always keen to have you taste a few cheeses to ensure you find what you are looking for. Everyone here is passionate about their cheese, and while the prices are higher than you will pay pretty much anywhere else in the world for cheese, the quality and taste are second to none. The New Zealand Shop, 27 Maiden Ln. M-F 10:30-18:30, Sa 11:00-18:30, Su 11:00-17:30.

Provides antipodean visitors with a taste of home, albeit at London prices. Stanfords , 12-14 Long Acre, WC2E 9LP (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7836-1321 . M-F 09:00-17:30, Sa 10:00-19:00, Su noon-18:00. This is the flagship store of the world's largest map retailer. They have been selling maps and travel guidebooks of all descriptions from this location since 1901. With three floors of regional maps, walking maps, guidebooks, travel books, a digital mapping service and more this is a huge store that is interesting even if you do not intend to buy anything. Thomas Neal's, 29-41 Earlham St. A nice shopping plaza with clothes shops, design shops and cafes. The Tintin Shop , 34 Floral Street, WC2E 9DJ, ☎ +44 20 7836-1131 , e-mail: tintinshop@btconnect.com .

M–Sa 10:30–17:30 Su 12:00–16:00. The place to go in Britain for fans of the Belgian reporter. Sells non-fiction books, clothes, posters, figurines and memorabilia, as well as each of Hergé's 24 Adventures of Tintin comicbooks in English, the original French and any other language you can think of. (updated Mar 2015) Marine and watersports: 51.5152827 -0.1266459 1 Arthur Beale (Yachting Chandler), 194 Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2H 8JP, ☎ +44 20 7836 9034 , e-mail: sales@arthurbeale.co.uk . M-W 9:00-18:00; Th-Sa 9:00-20:00; Su 11:00-17:00. A quite unusual shop for the centre of London.

A marine supply store which sells numerous items related to yachting: from clothing to sailing hardware and accessories. The shop has been at its current location for over 120 years. (updated Nov 2015) 51.5068861 -0.1229095 2 Ocean Leisure , 11-14 Northumberland Avenue, WC2N 5AQ (under Hungerford Bridge), ☎ +44 20 7930 5050 , e-mail: internetsales@oceanleisure.co.uk . M-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 11:00-17:00. Watersports-related items. (updated Nov 2015) Budget[ edit ] 51.5131695 -0.1131195 1 The George , 213 The Strand, ☎ +44 20 7353-9638 .

Established in 1723, not much of the decor has changed in this traditional English pub, where you can order happily inexpensive, tasty food. 51.5122764 -0.119884 2 Primrose Bakery , 42 Tavistock St, ☎ +44 20 7836-3638 . You can get possibly the best cupcakes in London here. They have an impressive clientele that includes U2 and Kate Moss. They also supply Selfridges food hall, Fortnum & Mason and Libertys, where the prices are MUCH higher (£1 more in Fortnum & Mason). They have another branch at 69 Gloucester Ave, Primrose Hill. Try their chocolate on chocolate cupcake with cherry filling. Prices start from £1.75 for a regular cupcake. Mid-range[ edit ] 51.5113183 -0.1273365 3 Brown's , 82-84 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7497-5050 .

Always buzzing, this popular restaurant is frequented by hip (often single) clientele, who are served by attentive staff. Meals are good, the braised lamb shank is especially tasty. 51.5145507 -0.1258171 4 Maison Malinowski Brasserie, 63 Neal St. Serves really delicious crêpes among other things. Perfect for a break while shopping! Paul's Bakery, 29/30 Bedford St, ☎ +44 20 7836-3304 . M-F 07:30-19:00, Sa Su 09:00-21:00. A French favourite, now in London, Paul's serves coffee and teas together fine French pastries, tarts, cakes and breads for savouring on or off the premises. Light snacks, lunches and dinners are also catered for, at prices a little higher than your average café (but reasonable for the touristy Covent Garden), somewhat less than a restaurant.

Cafe Pacifico, 5 Langley St, ☎ +44 20 7379-7728 . M-Sa noon-23:45, Su noon-22:45. London's original Mexican Cantina, serving all your typical Mexican food along with a good range of margaritas and tequila. La Perla, 28 Maiden Ln, ☎ +44 20 7240-7400 . M-Sa noon-23:30, Su 16:00-22:30. Another of Cafe Pacifico's venues, this one is slightly smaller with more of a bar feeling. 51.5146651 -0.1251143 5 Scoop (Natural Luxury Gelato), 40 Short's Gardens, ☎ +44 7944 779693 . This place is popular among the university students in London. Come here for some genuine Italian gelato or coffee and cake. Try their hazelnut gelato, which is simply amazing. Large £3.60.

Pubs[ edit ] 51.5173 -0.1215 1 Princess Louise , 208–209 High Holborn, WC1V 7BW (tube: Chancery Lane), ☎ +44 20 7405-8816 . Ornately designed Victorian interior, mostly preserved from an 1891 remodelling, with wood and etched-glass partitions dividing it into smaller sections. A Grade II listed building and on CAMRA's national inventory of historic pub interiors. 51.5109493 -0.1272976 2 The Salisbury, St. Martin's Ln. Beautifully preserved Victorian pub. Full of mirrors and lights, cut glass and mahogany, this place is nothing like the dark and dingy pubs that are all too common in London. Ernest Sports bar , 33 Rose Street, ☎ +44 20 7497-9504 . A modern sports bar to watch champions league and premiership action.Serving local ales and interntional beers. Beers from £5.

The Intrepid Fox, St Giles High St (Next to Centrepoint). The best rock and metal pub in London. Porterhouse , 21-22 Maiden Ln, ☎ +44 20 7379-7917 . A modern pub split across multiple levels connected by narrow staircases and walkways, with a selection of over 100 bottled beers from around the world. Waxy's O'Connor's, 14-16 Rupert St, W1D 6DD. Irish themed pub with a fibreglass tree inside it. It is almost invariably unbearably crowded. The smaller Waxy's Little Sister opposite it, however, is generally quieter and more relaxed. The Spice of Life. On Cambridge Circus, is a bustling middle-of-the-road gaf, with open-mic performances from talented musicians downstairs. Bars[ edit ] Rum Bar , 45 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300-5588 . Asia de Cuba, the trendy restaurant located inside the St. Martin's Lane Hotel, also houses the stylish Rum Bar.

With tall, 'lean-on' tables designed by Phillipe Starck and a meticulously designed interior this is a great place to meet for a cocktails before or after heading out for an evening. Light , 45 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300-5599 . Stylish, ultra modern space inside the St. Martin’s Lane Hotel. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, many of London's most popular D.J.'s are featured. Freud, 198 Shaftesbury Ave, ☎ +44 20 7240-9933 . If you blink, you'll miss this casual cellar bar that serves up a variety of cocktails you can't find anywhere else in London. Has good mojitos, and even an Apple Pie concoction that tastes like a drink version of the real thing! Always very crowded at night on the weekends despite the fact that you need to go down a rickety metal staircase to find it. Guanabara. A vibrant Brazilian bar, next to the New London Theatre, which attracts a large Latin dancing crowd.

Different types of music, with good DJ's and bands, are played each night of the week, such as flamenco, forró, lambada and even American country. Free entry before 8pm. Gay and Lesbian[ edit ] Box, 32-34 Monmouth St (At the Seven Dials), ☎ +44 20 7240-5828 . A trendy gay bar. 51.5085 -0.1267 3 Halfway to Heaven , 7 Duncannon St, WC2N 4JF (tube: Charing Cross), ☎ +44 20 7484-0736 , e-mail: halfwaytoheaven.london@stonegatepubs.com . M–Th noon–midnight; F–Sa noon–03:00l; Su noon–23:00. Traditional pub owned by the night club, Heaven. Aimed more at office workers and locals than the clubbing crowd. The basement bar hosts entertainment in the evenings.

51.5080 -0.1240 4 Heaven , The Arches, Villiers St, WC2N 6NG (Beneath Charing Cross station and the Craven St arches; tube: Embankment or Charing Cross), ☎ +44 20 7930-2020 , e-mail: info@heavennightclublondon.com . M 11:00–05:00; Tu–W closed; Th–F 23:00–04:00; Sa 22:30–05:00. Arguably the most famous gay club in London, and perhaps the world. Has secret performances by the likes of Britney Spears or Kylie Minogue. Good fun, whether gay or straight. from £4 bottle of beer. 51.5091 -0.1237 5 The Retro Bar , 2 George Ct, WC2N 6HH (tube: Charing Cross), ☎ +44 20 7839-8760 , e-mail: retrobar.london@stonegatepubs.com .

M–F noon–23:00; Sa 14:00–23:00; Su 14:00–22:30. The antidote to gay bars: a pub-like atmosphere and great music. Mid-range[ edit ] Fielding Hotel , 4 Broad Ct W2B 5QZ, ☎ +44 20 7836-8305 . No frills hotel located right opposite the Royal Opera House. From £90. Strand Palace Hotel , 372 Strand, WC2R 0JJ, ☎ +44 20 7379-4737 . Good value hotel in a convenient location for Covent Garden theatres and shopping From £65. Travel Lodge Covent Garden , 10 Drury Ln, WC2B 5RE, ☎ +44 871 984 6245 . Popular hotel with visitors and decent value for the area. Convenient for Covent Garden theatres and shopping From £135.

Splurge[ edit ] The Savoy , The Strand, ☎ +44 20 7836-4343 . The famed Savoy is on The Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district, offering magnificent views of the river Thames. The Savoy opened in 1889 and remains a popular destination in London. The hotel has 263 rooms and suites, a nifty blend of elegance and contemporary design. Inventive cuisine can be enjoyed in the Savoy Grill and the more informal Banquette. The theatres, opera, ballet and shopping of Covent Garden are located nearby. St Martins Lane , 45 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300-5500 . Ian Schrager (he of Studio 54 fame) is known worldwide for being an innovator in the ‘hip’ hotel business. His first foray into London, St Martins Lane, is a playful and urbane destination in the West End theater district off Trafalgar Square that combines urban cool and modern design (via design guru Philippe Starck).

Unique features to this trendy-meets-luxury hotel include Asia de Cuba restaurant, the popular Light Bar and interactive light displays in every guest room that encourage guests to personalize their own individual space. Connect[ edit ] Wi-fi is available along the Thames for free with ads, and in various commercial establishments in Convent Garden. Covent Garden travel guide - Wikitravel Understand[ edit ] Part of Covent Garden Piazza This is one of the main shopping and entertainment districts of the English capital and is hugely popular with visitors, who swarm to its shops, bars and restaurants, especially at weekends. Covent Garden incorporates some of London's Theatreland and also forms a smaller extension to London's gay village that is centred on the neighbouring district of Soho . Covent Garden takes its name from history; it used to be Convent Garden many years ago and over the years this has changed to Covent Garden. This is an extensive area of high density building and narrow streets, officially bounded by High Holborn and New Oxford Street to the north, by Kingsway to the east, by The Strand to the south and by Charing Cross Road to the west.

For all practical purposes, however, the district can also be seen to extend down to The Embankment along the Thames between Northumberland Avenue and Hungerford Bridge and to The Temple. The main focus of the Covent Garden district for visitors is the Covent Garden Market Piazza. Further north, a secondary focus is Seven Dials, an intersection of seven streets, marked by a tall pillar with (you guessed it) seven (sun) dials. Further north again, across Shaftesbury Avenue, you enter St. Giles - home of the Phoenix Garden and St Giles-in-the-Fields Church. It is very easy for visitors to move on from here by foot to the attractions around Trafalgar and Leicester Squares , to Soho and to Bloomsbury . Get in[ edit ] Owing to the London Congestion Charge and the general shortage of parking spaces (plus stringent parking restrictions and fines), it is generally recommended that visitors to the area consider public transport to access the district. By tube[ edit ] This district is well served by the following tube stations: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line).

Exiting Covent Garden Tube Station, turn right (southwards, downhill) to walk to the Piazza, or turn left (northwards) to find the main shopping areas of Long Acre, Neal Street and also Seven Dials. Leicester Square (Piccadilly and Northern lines). The distance between Leicester Square and Covent Garden stations on the Piccadilly line is the shortest on the whole London tube network. Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines). Tottenham Court Road (Northern and Central lines). Embankment (District, Circle and Northern lines). Charing Cross (Bakerloo, District, Circle and Northern lines). Landmarks[ edit ] Charing Cross and Charing Cross Station. Old train station with an enormous office and shopping complex in glass and pale stone. A lavish hotel is also on the site. The name comes from the Queen Elenaor (13th C.) gothic pillar outside the station, which is acutally a Victorian-era replica. Charing Cross Road is famous for its vintage book shops, one stand-out is Foyle's. edit Covent Garden Piazza and Central Market, (tube: Covent Garden). Covent Garden is a covered shopping mall with shops predominantly selling clothing, but also gifts and cosmetics.

There is a popular pub, The Punch and Judy Tavern at the western end, with a large balcony overlooking a square where street entertainers perform. At the eastern end, the corresponding balcony is occupied by Chez Gerard, a restaurant selling relatively-expensive but good continental cuisine. In the central area of Covent Garden is The Apple Market, a small market of handicraft stalls (Tuesday-Sunday) or antiques stalls (Monday), 10:30-19:30. Most shops are open 10:00-19:00 daily, but may close earlier on Sundays. Classical musicians will often busk in the lower level of Covent Garden, including extremely talented opera singers. edit Seven Dials, (tube: Covent Garden). An intersection of seven streets in the northern part of the Covent Garden district. Lots of of mid-range designer clothing and shoe stores edit St. Paul's Church, Bedford St WC2 (tube: Covent Garden. At the western end of the Piazza). Completed in 1633 to a design by Inigo Jones. edit Phoenix Garden, Stacey St WC2H 0JN (tube: Tottenham Court Rd. Behind the Phoenix Theatre on Charing Cross Rd).

Community run wildlife garden opened in 1983 - home of the West End's only frogs. edit Museums and Galleries[ edit ] Benjamin Franklin House, 36 Craven St WC2N 5NF (tube: Charing Cross), ☎ +44 20 7839 2006, [1] . The only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin in the world. The founding father of the United States lived here from 1757 to 1775. Many exhibits charting his life and achievements as well as original artefacts. A special Historical Experience Show runs W-Su at noon, 13:00, 14:00, 15:15, and 16:15 all year round. £7, under 16s free.. edit London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7565 7299, [2] . As the name suggests, dedicated to the history of transport in London, past, present and future, old buses and tubes feature in a big way.

£15.00, concessions £11.50, accompanied children under 17 free. edit Sir John Soanes Museum, the Georgian house of the famous architect and collector, in nearby Lincoln Inn's Field. The Hunterian Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons is located the other side of the square. Theatres[ edit ] Along with neighbouring London/Leicester Square , this is the capital of London's theatreland. For current programmes please check the relevant theatre website or the official London theatreland listings here [3] . Budget travellers should look for last minute bookings and off-peak performances. Most of the booking office numbers given will only work from within the United Kingdom. If you want to make a booking from overseas, use the relevant website. Adelphi Theatre, Strand, WC2E 7NA, ☎ +44 0844 412 4651, [4] . edit Aldwych Theatre, Aldwych, WC2B 4DF, [5] . edit Ambassador's Theatre, West St, WC2H 9ND, ☎ +44 0844 8112 334, [6] .

edit Cambridge Theatre, 32-34 Earlham St, WC2 9HU, ☎ +44 0844 412 4652, [7] . edit Donmar Warehouse, Earlham St, WC2H 9LX, ☎ +44 0844 871 7624, [8] . edit Duke of York's Theatre, St. Martin's Ln, WC2N 4BG, ☎ +44 0870 060 6623. edit The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden Fortune Theatre, Russell Street,Covent Garden, WC2B 5HH. edit Lyceum Theatre, 21 Wellington Street, WC2E 7RQ, [9] . edit New London Theatre, Drury Ln, WC2B 5PW, ☎ +44 0844 412 4654, [10] . edit Noel Coward Theatre (The Albery), St.

Martin's Ln, WC2N 4AA, ☎ +44 0870 950 0920, [11] . edit Novello Theatre, Aldwych, WC2B 4LD, ☎ +44 0870 950 0935, [12] . edit Savoy Theatre, Strand, WC2R 0ET, ☎ 0844 871 7627, [13] . edit Shaftesbury Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Ave, WC2H 8DP, [14] . edit Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Catherine St, WC2B 5JF, [15] . edit St Martin's Theatre, West St, WC2H 9NZ, ☎ +44 0844 499 1515, [16] . The theatre which has been showing The Mousetrap continuously for the past 60 years! edit Phoenix Theatre, Phoenix St, WC2H. edit Opera[ edit ] English National Opera, London Colliseum, St.

Martin's Ln, WC2N 4ES (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 871 911 0200 ( box.office@eno.org ), [17] . A little easier to get tickets here than it is at the Royal Opera House but still difficult for the most notable productions. Look for last minute availability and and off peak performances. edit Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7304 4000, [18] . One of the world's great Opera and Ballet venues. Peak time tickets are like gold dust and it is very unlikely that a casual visitor will be able to obtain one. However, at least 65 tickets per performance are held off for on-the-day in person sales from 10AM, and tickets are sometimes available for off peak (especially matinee) performances and can be surprisingly affordable. Check the website or at London ticket agencies.

edit Covent Garden Opera Walk, Depart Covent Garden Tube Station, Every Thursday at 7pm, ☎ +44 20 3239 3081 ( info@mostcurioustours.com ), [19] . From John Gay’s The Beggar’s Opera, to the controversial Jerry Springer the Opera, the history of Opera in London is explored, as well as the composers who contributed to the genre. The guide is a professional opera singer who performances live opera along the route. Tour lasts 2 hours. edit Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] Shoes are a speciality of Covent Garden, particularly in Neal Street where virtually every shop sells shoes, from Birkenstocks to trainers, campers to Doc Martens. Like its neighbour Soho, Covent Garden has a wide range of clothing shops. Head to Floral Street and Long Acre for a start, but explore the back-streets too as they often house more interesting stores. If you are on a budget, head to Earlham Street for occasional clothing stalls and Oxfam Originals. The Australia Shop, 27 Maiden Ln, [20] .

M-F 10:30-18:30, Sa 11:00-18:30, Su 11:00-17:30. Provides antipodean visitors with a taste of home, albeit at London prices. edit Ben's Cookies, 13a The Piazza (Inside the Covent Garden Market), ☎ +44 20 7240 6123, [21] . M-F 07:30-19:00, Sa 09:30-18:30, Su 10:30-18:30, bank holidays 10:00-18:00. Very nice cookies. Try their white chocolate with macadamia cookies. Price is about £1 per cookie, and the cookies here are almost twice as big as those at Millie's. They also have branches at 12 Kensington Arcade, Kensington High St; at 39 Leadenhall Market; and at 9 Pelham St, South Kensington. edit Monmouth Coffee, Monmouth St (Near Seven Dials). Arguably the best coffee in London.

Primarily a venue for quality coffee roasters, the shop on Monmouth street has a tasting room, i.e. a café, where you can marvel at the fact that not everywhere in London sells poor chain-café coffee. A selection of goodies such as croissants, pastries, and brownies are also available. As you would expect of a roasters you can also purchase excellent coffee in bean form or ground, with various blends to suit your taste. Helpful and knowledgeable staff can help you make a selection. edit Neal's Yard Dairy, 11 Shorts Gardens WC2H 9AT (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7240 5700, [22] . M-Th 11:00-18:30, F Sa 10:00-18:30. A fabulous cheese shop specialising in British cheeses. The smell as you walk up the street can be enticing or repulsive, depending on your preference for fragrant cheese. But regardless, a trip to this shop is well worthwhile.

Whether they are busy or not, the staff are always keen to have you taste a few cheeses to ensure you find what you are looking for. Everyone here is passionate about their cheese, and while the prices are higher than you will pay pretty much anywhere else in the world for cheese, the quality and taste are second to none. edit The New Zealand Shop, 27 Maiden Ln, [23] . M-F 10:30-18:30, Sa 11:00-18:30, Su 11:00-17:30. Provides antipodean visitors with a taste of home, albeit at London prices. edit Stanfords, 12-14 Long Acre WC2E 9LP (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7836 1321, [24] . M-F 09:00-17:30, Sa 10:00-19:00, Su noon-18:00. This is the flagship store of the world's largest map retailer.

They have been been selling maps and travel guidebooks of all descriptions from this location since 1901. With three floors of regional maps, walking maps, guidebooks, travel books, a digital mapping service and more this is a huge store that is interesting even if you do not intend to buy anything. edit Thomas Neal's, 29-41 Earlham St. A nice shopping plaza with clothes shops, design shops and cafes. edit Barbour Store, 134 Long Acre, ☎ 0207 2405061, [25] . the flagship store sells Barbour lifestyle collections for men, women and children edit Forbidden Planet, 179 Shaftesbury Avenue London WC2H 8JR (tube: Tottenham Court Road), [26] . M/Tu 10:00 - 19:00, W 10:00 - 19:30, Th 10:00 - 20:00, F/Sa 10:00 - 19:30. Su12:00 - 18:00. London's science fiction themed shop.

Has a huge collection of books, T-shirts, and toys. It's good place to get Doctor Who souvenirs. edit Budget[ edit ] The George, 213 The Strand, ☎ +44 20 7353 9638. Established in 1723, not much of the decor has changed in this traditional English pub, where you can order happily inexpensive, tasty food. edit Primrose Bakery, 42 Tavistock St, ☎ +44 20 7836 3638, [27] . You can get possibly the best cupcakes in London here. They have an impressive clientele that includes U2 and Kate Moss. They also supply Selfridges food hall, Fortnum & Mason and Libertys, where the prices are MUCH higher (£1 more in Fortnum & Mason). They have another branch at 69 Gloucester Ave, Primrose Hill. Try their chocolate on chocolate cupcake with cherry filling. Prices start from £1.75 for a regular cupcake. edit Mid-range[ edit ] Brown's, 82-84 St.

Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7497 5050. Always buzzing, this popular restaurant is frequented by hip (often single) clientele, who are served by attentive staff. Meals are good, the braised lamb shank is especially tasty. edit Cafe des Amis (Cafe des Amis du Vin), 11-15 Hanover Pl WC2E 9JF (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7379 3444, [28] . Brasserie and wine bar wihch has been around for a long time in a highly competitive environment. Excellent, uncomplicated French food. The set menus are very good value for the quality of food served. edit Food For Thought, Neal St, WC2. Tasty range of choices for vegetarians and vegans. edit Maison Malinowski Brasserie, 63 Neal St. Serves really delicious crêpes among other things. Perfect for a break while shopping! edit Paul's Bakery, 29/30 Bedford St, ☎ +44 20 7836 3304.

M-F 07:30-19:00, Sa Su 09:00-21:00. A French favourite, now in London, Paul's serves coffee and teas together fine French pastries, tarts, cakes and breads for savouring on or off the premises. Light snacks, lunches and dinners are also catered for, at prices a little higher than your average café (but reasonable for the touristy Covent Garden), somewhat less than a restaurant. edit Cafe Pacifico, 5 Langley St, ☎ +44 20 7379 7728. M-Sa noon-23:45, Su noon-22:45. London's original Mexican Cantina, serving all your typical Mexican food along with a good range of margaritas and tequila. edit La Perla, 28 Maiden Ln, ☎ +44 20 7240 7400. M-Sa noon-23:30, Su 16:00-22:30. Another of Cafe Pacifico's venues, this one is slightly smaller with more of a bar feeling.

edit Scoop Fine Italian Gelato, 40 Shorts Gdns, ☎ +44 07944779693, [29] . This place is popular among the university students in London. Come here for some genuine Italian gelato or coffee and cake. Try their hazelnut gelato, which is simply amazing. Large £3.60. edit Splurge[ edit ] The Ivy, 1 West St (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7836 4751. Wining and dining rooms of celebrities, the actual difficulty in getting a table these days gives the restaurant slightly more kudos as an eatery than it deserves. Cosy and intimate, serving traditional but diverse restaurant meals. Competent cooking and reasonably good service, but not worth waiting 6 months for. Unless you are an avid star-gazer, go at a time when celebs are unlikely to be around. Average price £40.

edit Joe Allen, 13 Exeter St, WC2E 7DT (tube: Covent Garden), ☎ +44 20 7836 0651 ( info@joeallen.co.uk ), [30] . Legendary informal bistro which is incredibly hard to find for the first time - look for the dark, discrete door with a simple plaque on it on the north side of Exeter St. Food is a take on American style grilled fare using the very highest quality ingredients. Steaks and chops are superb. Favoured by lots of celebs and booking essential, especially pre- and post theatre. edit Rules 35 Maiden Lane, claims to the oldest restaurant still-going in London. It's high-class decor matches its posh diners. Pubs[ edit ] The Intrepid Fox, St Giles High St (Next to Centrepoint). The best rock and metal pub in London. edit Porterhouse, 21-22 Maiden Ln, ☎ +44 20 7379 7917, [31] .

A modern pub split across multiple levels connected by narrow staircases and walkways, with a selection of over 100 bottled beers from around the world. edit Ernest Sports Bar, 33 Rose Street,Covent Garden,London WC2E 9EB, ☎ +440207 497 9504, [32] . A nice sports bar to watch champions league and premiership. Serving local ales as well as beers from all around the world. Prices are OK. Pints £5. edit The Salisbury, St. Martin's Ln. Beautifully preserved Victorian pub. Full of mirrors and lights, cut glass and mahogany, this place is nothing like the dark and dingy pubs that are all too common in London. edit Waxy's O'Connor's, 14-16 Rupert St, W1D 6DD. Irish themed pub with a fibreglass tree inside it. It is almost invariably unbearably crowded. The smaller Waxy's Little Sister opposite it, however, is generally quieter and more relaxed.

edit Walkabout on Maiden Lane, is an Australian franchise, where you can down a Toohey's or VB over kangaroo burgers, with live music and DJ's. There is another two re-opening at Temple, and in the Welsh Chapel on Cambridge Circus. The Maple Leaf, also along Maiden Lane, is a Canadian alternative showing latest ice-hockey matches. The Spice of Life on Cambridge Circus, is a bustling middle-of-the-road gaf, with open-mic performances from talented musicians downstairs. Bars[ edit ] Box, 32-34 Monmouth St (At the Seven Dials), ☎ +44 20 7240 5828. A trendy gay bar. edit Rum Bar, 45 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300 5588, [33] . Asia de Cuba, the trendy restaurant located inside the St. Martin's Lane Hotel, also houses the stylish Rum Bar. With tall, 'lean-on' tables designed by Phillipe Starck and a meticulously designed interior this is a great place to meet for a cocktails before or after heading out for an evening. edit Light, 45 St.

Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300 5599, [34] . Stylish, ultra modern space inside the St. Martin’s Lane Hotel. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, many of London's most popular D.J.'s are featured. edit Freud, 198 Shaftesbury Ave, ☎ +44 20 7240 9933. If you blink, you'll miss this casual cellar bar that serves up a variety of cocktails you can't find anywhere else in London. Has good mojitos, and even an Apple Pie concoction that tastes like a drink version of the real thing! Always very crowded at night on the weekends despite the fact that you need to go down a rickety metal staircase to find it. edit Guanabara is a vibrant Brazilian bar, next to the New London Theatre, which attracts a large Latin dancing crowd. Different types of music, with good DJ's and bands, are played each nite of the week, such as flamenco, forró, lambada and even American country. Free entry before 8pm.

Gay and Lesbian[ edit ] Heaven (with its Halfway to Heaven pub nearby) under Charing Cross station, is arguably the most famous gay club in London. Has secret performances by the likes of Britney Spears or Kylie Minogue. Good fun, whether gay or straight. Mid-range[ edit ] Fielding Hotel, 4 Broad Ct W2B 5QZ, ☎ +44 20 7836 8305, [35] . No frills hotel located right opposite the Royal Opera House. From £90. edit Strand Palace Hotel, 372 Strand, WC2R 0JJ, ☎ +44 20 7379 4737, [36] . Good value hotel in a convenient location for Covent Garden theatres and shopping From £65. edit Travel Lodge Covent Garden, 10 Drury Ln, WC2B 5RE, ☎ +44 0871 984 6245, [37] . Popular hotel with visitors and decent value for the area. Convenient for Covent Garden theatres and shopping From £66.

edit Splurge[ edit ] The Savoy, The Strand, ☎ +44 20 7836 4343, [38] . The famed Savoy is on The Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district, offering magnificent views of the river Thames. The Savoy opened in 1889 and remains a popular destination in London. The hotel has 263 rooms and suites, a nifty blend of elegance and contemporary design. Inventive cuisine can be enjoyed in the Savoy Grill and the more informal Banquette. The theatres, opera, ballet and shopping of Covent Garden are located nearby. edit St Martins Lane, 45 St. Martin's Ln, ☎ +44 20 7300 5500, [39] . Ian Schrager (he of Studio 54 fame) is known worldwide for being an innovator in the ‘hip’ hotel business. His first foray into London, St Martins Lane, is a playful and urbane destination in the West End theater district off Trafalgar Square that combines urban cool and modern design (via design guru Philippe Starck).

Unique features to this trendy-meets-luxury hotel include Asia de Cuba restaurant, the popular Light Bar and interactive light displays in every guest room that encourage guests to personalize their own individual space. edit Covent Garden Hotel, 10 MONMOUTH ST, ☎ +44 (0)20 7806 1000, [40] . Luxury hotel in the heart of Covent Garden. Walking distance to theaters and the British Museum. 350. edit Top Shopping Destinations in London - Things To Do - visitlondon.com Top Shopping Destinations in London Map view London has several distinct shopping areas and shopping streets, many of which have their own themes or specialities. Shopping in London is exciting and varied: from luxury goods in Mayfair to quirky finds in Covent Garden , to large shopping centres such as Westfield and famous London department stores including the likes of Harrods . You can easily spend an hour, an afternoon or a whole day browsing shops in London. Here's our guide to the best shops in London for your ultimate London shopping experience.

Oxford Street The heart of London shopping, bustling Oxford Street has more than 300 shops, designer outlets and landmark stores: here you can find some of the best shopping in London. Home to the legendary Selfridges , it also boasts a range of famous department stores such as John Lewis and Debenhams scattered among every well-known high street chain imaginable. Grab some bargain fashion at Primark ’s massive flagship store, and check the latest trends at Topshop in Oxford Circus. Get off the beaten track by slipping into a side street, such as St Christopher's Place and Berwick Street , where you'll find some real treats. Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus , Bond Street or Tottenham Court Road Regent Street and Jermyn Street An impressively elegant shopping street, Regent Street offers a good range of mid-priced fashion stores alongside some of the city's oldest and most famous shops, including Hamleys , Liberty and The Apple Store . Nearby, historic Jermyn Street is renowned for men's clothing shops and is so typically British it's enough to bring out the old-fashioned gent in anyone! Jermyn Street is particularly well known for its bespoke shirt makers such as Benson & Clegg and shoe shops including John Lobb .

Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus or Oxford Circus Bond Street and Mayfair Whether you want to splash out on the very best in designer clothes or just love luxury window shopping, Bond Street and Mayfair are the ideal places to go for some extravagant retail therapy. Popular with celebrities on a spree, this is probably London's most exclusive shopping area, home to big names, including Burberry , Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co . Neighbouring South Molton Street boasts iconic fashion store Browns . Read More Westfield Westfield has two major shopping centres in London at White City and Stratford. Westfield London is home to high street favourites including Debenhams , Next , Marks & Spencer and House of Fraser , along with luxury brands, such as Louis Vuitton , Jimmy Choo, All Saints and Ted Baker. There's also a cinema, gym, several bars and restaurants, all under one roof! If you're a fan of shopping centres, don't miss Westfield Stratford City in East London, which boasts 250 shops plus 70 places to dine, making it one of the largest shopping malls in Europe.

Nearest Tube: White City or Shepherd's Bush for Westfield London, and Stratford for Westfield Stratford City. Carnaby Street The birthplace of the fashion and cultural revolution during the Swinging 60s, the 13 streets that make up Carnaby are located between Oxford Street and Regent Street, and feature more than 150 brands and 50 independent restaurants and bars. Step under the iconic arch to find an intriguing mix of independent boutiques, heritage brands and new designer names, as well as a choice of restaurants, bars, cafes and great English pubs. Refuel at restaurant hub Kingly Court , just off Carnaby Street. Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus or Piccadilly Circus Covent Garden Whether you want hip fashion, unique gifts, rare sweets or one-off handmade jewellery, Covent Garden is a great place to explore. Stock up on the latest urban streetwear, funky cosmetics and shoes on Neal Street, check out imaginative arts and crafts at Covent Garden Market or just window shop around the stores. Don't miss Floral Street, Monmouth Street, St Martin's Courtyard , Shorts Gardens, Seven Dials and picture-pretty Neal's Yard for a true taste of London's most distinctive shopping area.

Nearest Tube: Covent Garden or Leicester Square King's Road In posh Chelsea's King's Road you'll find an eclectic mix of chic boutiques, unique labels, designer shops and high-street staples, alongside a vast array of cafes and restaurants. It's also a great place for inspirational interior design, with Peter Jones , Heal's and Cath Kidston all vying for attention. Be sure to check out Duke of York Square : located just off the King's Road, this tranquil square is home to more than 30 fashion and lifestyle retailers, including one of Europe’s largest Zara stores. You can also visit the store where punk was born in the 70s, Vivienne Westwood's shop and a treasure trove of antiques at the Chelsea Antiques Market. Nearest Tube: Sloane Square Knightsbridge Visitors from around the world flock to Knightsbridge and Brompton Road to visit the illustrious shops and department stores. This is the place to go if you're looking for prestigious brands and up-to-the-minute trends from the world's fashion elite.

Best known for Harrods and Harvey Nichols , you'll also find big-name fashion designers on Sloane Street, as well as high-street brands such as Topshop opposite Harrods. Nearest Tube: Knightsbridge Savile Row Known worldwide as the home of bespoke British tailoring, Savile Row is the place to come if you want a handmade suit crafted the old-fashioned way (with a price tag to match). Credited with inventing the tuxedo Henry Poole & Co – also the first Savile Row tailor – is still cutting cloth at No 15. Other big names include Gieves & Hawkes , Huntsman & Sons and Ozwald Boateng . On the corner of this "golden mile" of tailoring you'll also find the flagship Abercrombie & Fitch store. Nearest Tube: Bond Street or Piccadilly Circus Camden Camden is the ideal shopping destination for lovers of alternative clothing. Here you can find some of the most unusual London shops. Get off the Tube at Camden Town , walk along Camden High Street, and you’ll find plenty of stores selling gothic fashion and punk clothing, alongside tattoo and piercing parlours.

Further ahead, Camden Lock Market has it all, whether you are looking for a perfect birthday gift or a souvenir, from hand-crafted jewellery, to vintage leather bags. And don’t miss the futuristic cyber clothing shop Cyberdog . Nearest Tube: Camden Town Notting Hill Famous worldwide thanks to the film of the same name, Notting Hill offers a vast array of small, unique shops selling unusual and vintage clothing, rare antiques, quirky gifts, books and organic food. There's the popular Portobello Road Market – a mile-long (1.6km) street with vibrant stalls set out daily. Nearby Westbourne Grove offers more high-end shopping, with stylish designer shops dotted between a mix of quirky boho boutiques, hip cafes and art galleries. Read More Spitalfields Head to Spitalfields for a great range of independent shops. A vibrant hub for young designers and creative businesses, Spitalfields hosts independent boutiques including Mercantile and Collectif Clothing, as well as renowned brands, such as Barbour and Belstaff. Don’t miss lively Old Spitalfields Market , with its array of stalls selling antiques, fashion and street food under a beautiful Victorian arcade.

Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street Canary Wharf Sleek and modern Canary Wharf, in London's Docklands, is home to many of the UK's leading businesses, but it is also a great shopping destination, open seven days a week. Canary Wharf shopping boasts more than 120 shops across five shopping centres around Canada Square, with all the major high-street chains as well as a good selection of designer shops. Look out for big names such as Oasis and Zara plus lingerie brand Myla and luxurious fragrance store Jo Malone. As long as you avoid the weekday lunch-hour rush, it's one of London's most chilled-out shopping experiences. Covent Garden - Things To Do - visitlondon.com Things to Do Email Facebook Twitter Google+ Covent Garden Vibrant Covent Garden in London's West End is a must-see destination for anyone who enjoys shopping, theatre, restaurants, bars, history and culture. Top 10 Covent Garden Set in London’s West End, Covent Garden is a major draw for visitors and Londoners who enjoy its many attractions, including shopping, theatre, restaurants, bars, history and culture. Things to see in and around Covent Garden include the London Transport Museum , the Royal Opera House , Somerset House and Covent Garden Market .

There are several smaller areas within Covent Garden that are worth exploring such as the The Opera Quarter, St Martin's Courtyard , Seven Dials , Neal's Yard and Floral Street. Find more things to do in Covent Garden . Follow us on: Covent Garden/Piccadilly Apartments - Holiday Apartments/Hotels in London - Page 1 Westminster & Victoria Covent Garden and Piccadilly Apartments Covent Garden is a district in London, England, located on the eastern fringes of the West End, between St. Martin's Lane and Drury Lane.The area is mainly associated with the former fruit and vegetable market located in the central square which is now a popular shopping and tourist site, and the Royal Opera House, which is also known as "Covent Garden". The area is divided by the main thoroughfare of Long Acre; north of which is mainly given over to independent shops centred on Neal's Yard and Seven Dials, while the south contains the central square with its street performers, and most of the elegant buildings, theatres and entertainment facilities, including the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, and the London Transport Museum. Sort by:

Question: Complete the name of the shopping district in the Covent Garden area of London, Seven
Answer: Dials