The pulse of London, Covent Garden defies the odds by being both a tourist hotspot yet still a place where Londoners can enjoy a day out without feeling overcrowded and claustrophobic. Fair warning, this is not to say that Covent Garden is an empty place, far from it, rather that it’s a place which justifies its popularity. 

What exactly the boundaries of Covent Garden are is a question that ten people would give you ten different answers for, so for simplicity’s sake I’m going to be talking about the area within a ten minute walk from Covent Garden Station.

With most of London’s major theatres, a huge range of bright, vibrant shops, and arguably the best nightlife in the city, Covent Garden gives off a buzzing, whirling energy that is positively infectious. Each small street packs it’s own surprise, each concealed alleyway has a trick up its sleeve, and any old store just could’ve a secret lever in a shelf that leads to a lively little speakeasy (check out Blind Spot, hidden in St. Martin’s Lane Hotel). With amazing coffee stores abound, there’s no excuse to be anything other than bouncy while you get to explore the energetic hub of London that is: Covent Garden.

Highlights…

Leicester and Trafalgar Square: Two of London’s most famous landmarks, these squares epitomize the city’s hustle and bustle like no place else. In Leicester Square, street performers abound, always with bundles of energy. Visit the Lego shop, take a tour of M&M’s world, gamble (responsibly of course) at the Hippodrome Casino, and spot the statues of famous characters. In Trafalgar Square, admire the world renowned lion statues and the majestic Nelson’s Column while listening to a busker’s electrifying violin. 

National Gallery: In between the squares is one of the world’s most visited museums. Nearly two centuries old and housing over 2,300 works of art, this museum is already an alluring prospect. Oh, and it’s free.

Theatreland: When in Rome… Covent Garden is considered the heart of London’s Theatre District. With many world famous productions including Matilda, The Lion King, Mamma Mia!, and many more. Alternatively, head to the Royal Opera House for some mind-blowing performances in opera and ballet.

London Transport Museum: This large and interactive museum is a fun day out for the kids and a fascinating look at the world’s most iconic transport system. It’s located right outside the market, is open from 10-6 Mon-Sun and is free for under 18s. It’s 21 pounds for adults, but the ticket comes with unlimited daytime access for a year.

Eating and Drinking…

Escapologist: Indulge in some cocktails in this basement bar which once housed the headquarters of a secret Victorian society. Nowadays the bar has kept up with its peculiar history with cryptic but beautiful surrealist decor. Open from 4 PM – 12 AM on weekdays, 3 PM – 12 AM on Saturdays, and 5 PM – 11:30 PM on Sundays.

Where: The bar is on Earlham Street, right off of Seven Dials Roundabout.

Porterhouse: One of London’s biggest bars, instead of getting lost its three floors and many mezzanines, get lost in this Irish bar’s colossal selection of beers.

When: Open 12 PM – 11 PM Tuesday to Saturday, 12 PM – 9 PM Sunday, and 3 PM – 10 PM on Mondays.

Where to Stay…

Budget – Covent Garden and Central London accommodation is generally very expensive, so if you’re a backpacker or budget traveller your best option is to stay somewhere just outside of the centre with good access to a train or bus to the city. Hackney and Islington in particular are two great areas to stay with easy access to Covent Garden.

Midrange – Seven Dials Hotel: Located just four minutes from Covent Garden Station and mere seconds from Seven Dials and Neals Yard, this unassuming hotel makes up for what it misses in swankiness and style in unmatchable value and perfect location.

Luxury – The Londoner: What’s more London than staying in a hotel called “The Londoner”? Perhaps spending the night in Leicester Square itself, within throwing distance of Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, minutes walk from all London’s theatre. This swanky hotel is also in walking distance from other London areas like Soho and Waterloo. 

Where to Shop and What For…

Covent Garden Market: The area’s centrepiece is this lively market right next to the station. Stock up on specialty foods as you sip your shake or coffee from one of the shake shops or baristas available here. 

Jubilee Market:  Browse through the many antiques, arts, and jewellery in this market hall just behind Covent Garden Market.

 Unique Stores: The Garden also has more than its fair share of quirky speciality stores: At Moomins, find tons of unique items all themed to cows and that sound they make (it’s moo). At The Noble Collection, shop for collectibles of all your favourite series. Shoot for the stars at the Astrology Shop. And at Stanfords, peruse through countless maps, globes and travel guides.

What Else is in the Area…?

Neals Yard: A small alleyway with a life of its own. Find this hidden gem right off of Monmouth Street. Here you’ll find plenty of cute indie stores amidst cheerful, vibrantly coloured buildings. 

The world’s smallest police station: Find it on the east side of Trafalgar Square.

London Film Museum: See props from British blockbusters at this museum just around the corner from the markets. If You’re a Potterhead, stop by next door at the Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition for Londons’ only butter beer bar.

Anything I missed or hidden gems you think I should add? Let me know in the comments below