The 20 Best Things to Do in Covent Garden, London

Covent Garden is brimming with infectious energy. It’s the kind of place that draws you in again and again. There’s always something new to explore, no matter how many times you’ve visited. From major attractions to some lesser-known gems that many tourists overlook, here’s my list of the 20 best things to do in Covent Garden, London.

PS. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of busy crowds, Covent Garden has plenty of quiet corners where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle.

If you’re an early riser, you might even get to enjoy the Piazza all to yourself before the crowds show up.

EXPLORE COVENT GARDEN PIAZZA

Covent Garden Piazza is such a fun spot to explore, and you don’t even need a plan – just let yourself drift! This is London’s oldest planned square, created by Inigo Jones in 1630.

You could easily spend hours here enjoying the buzz, watching street performers, browsing local shops, and watching the world go by.

SIP A COFFEE WITH A VIEW

Start your morning in Covent Garden with a cuppa and a perfectly crafted pastry from EL&N Deli and Bakery, right across from Jubilee Market Hall.

Trust me, it’s hard to find pastries as Instagram-worthy as these!

The terrace offers a fantastic view of the Piazza, too. If you can get there by 8 a.m., you’ll enjoy a rare moment of tranquillity as the square slowly comes to life.

BROWSE THE ARTISAN STALLS OF COVENT GARDEN MARKETS

Once you’ve fuelled up with a delicious breakfast, head over to the Apple Market in the Covent Garden’s Market Building. It’s a treasure trove of handmade crafts, jewellery, quirky soaps, eclectic artwork, and unique souvenirs. If you’re there on a Monday, you’ll find antiques and collectibles instead.

Don’t miss the East Colonnade Market on the east side and the Jubilee Market in the Jubilee Hall for even more one-of-a-kind finds.

FIND THE CHARLIE CHAPLIN MEMORIAL AT ST. PAUL’S CHURCH

Make sure to stop by St. Paul’s Church, also called the Actor’s Church. Designed by Inigo Jones and finished in 1633, this Anglican church has a deep connection to theatre, featuring memorials for stars like Charlie Chaplin.

Don’t be fooled by the impressive east door that faces the Covent Garden Piazza – it’s actually a facade! You can enter the church only from Bedford Street.

After your visit, take a moment to relax in the churchyard, where beautiful gardens offer a peaceful break from the busy square.

Bedford Street, London 

GRAB A BITE AT SEVEN DIALS MARKET

If you’re looking for a tasty lunch, don’t miss Seven Dials Market. This lively food hall features a variety of delicious street food and artisanal treats from independent vendors, all set in a beautifully restored Victorian building. You’ll find everything from African burritos to juicy patties and tempting desserts.

One of my favourite spots is Pick and Cheese, the world’s first cheese conveyor belt restaurant. If you’re not watching your calories, don’t miss out on their Bottomless Wednesdays, where you can indulge in tasty British cheese to your heart’s content.

35 Earlham Street, London

GET YOUR DESSERT FIX AT MILK TRAIN

After a few hours of wandering, you deserve a sweet reward! There is one ice cream that truly captures the spirit of adventure – the candy floss cone from Milk Train, an experiential ice cream brand.

If that feels a bit over the top (I get it!), you might enjoy a simpler but just as delightful option, like a ‘travel-inspired’ ice cream pint.

12 Tavistock Street, London

TAKE IN THE VIEWS OF THE PIAZZA FROM THE ROOFTOP

If you’re looking for a fantastic bird’s-eye view of Covent Garden Piazza, head to the amphitheatre rooftop bar and restaurant called Piazza at the Royal Opera House.

It can get quite busy, so if you want to relax with an Aperol spritz, you’ll need some luck or patience to find a seat – unless you arrive right when the bar opens at noon.

5th floor of the Royal Opera House, 
36 Bow Street, London

STEP INTO THE WORLD OF ELEGANCE AT THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

Watch a performance at the Royal Opera House, one of the world’s most renowned theatres. Whether it’s opera or ballet, the shows here are spectacular.

If you’re curious about the inner workings of the theatre, join a Behind the Scenes Tour. You’ll get to explore areas that are usually off-limits, like rehearsal studios, costume departments, and production workshops.

36 Bow Street, London

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DISCOVER LONDON’S FIRST TUBE TRAIN

Visit the Transport Museum to learn about the fascinating history of London’s transport. You will see cool exhibits like the first horse-bus service, the horse-drawn tram, and a charming 1920s Metropolitan underground carriage.

Check out a double-decker electric tram, which was the first tube train without windows, and try the tube driver simulator—it’s a lot of fun! There will be plenty of opportunities to snap fun photos along the way.

39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden Piazza, London

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LEARN THE SECRETS OF LONDON’S POLICE FORCE

Don’t miss the Bow Street Museum if you want to dive into the intriguing history of policing and criminal justice in London. It’s located on the site of the former Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station, which closed its doors in 2006.

You’ll learn about the Bow Street Runners, London’s first police force, along with fascinating stories of investigations and arrests.

Fun fact: Oscar Wilde was jailed here for ‘indecent acts’, and Emmeline Pankhurst, the suffrage leader, was charged in 1908 for inciting a rush on the House of Commons.

28 Bow Street, Martlett Ct, London

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SEE A PLAY… AND MAYBE A GHOST AT THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE

Visit the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which was the first theatre in England to allow women to perform on stage.

It’s also the only West End theatre where you can enjoy a delightful Regency-inspired Afternoon Tea in the Grand Saloon.

Watch a play or join a guided tour to hear some fascinating stories about the theatre. Just a little warning – you might encounter a few friendly ghosts along the way, as the theatre is apparently haunted!

Catherine Street, London

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SHOP TILL YOU DROP IN COVENT GARDEN’S FAMOUS STREETS

Covent Garden boasts many charming streets lined up with fantastic cafes, boutiques, and shops.

Floral Street

Start your adventure on stylish, cobbled Floral Street. It’s a shopping hotspot featuring famous fashion brands. While you’re there, don’t miss Chestnut Bakery, famous for its expertly crafted croissants.

Floral Court

Check out the quaint Floral Court between Floral and King Street, home to The Petersham and its sister restaurant, La Goccia. Both offer elegant dining experiences and delicious food.

King Street

Next, head over to King Street, another lovely spot lined with shops. My favourite shop there is Mariage Frères Tea Emporium.

Their tea is the best I’ve ever tasted! Step inside to choose your brew from their Instagrammable wall of vintage-style canisters, or indulge in a fantastic afternoon tea with tea-infused pastries.

Long Acre

For more shopping, stroll down Long Acre, where you’ll find Stanford’s, the world’s largest and oldest map shop.

Neal’s Yard

Running north from Long Acre is Neal Street, featuring beautiful Victorian warehouses.

Be sure to explore Neal’s Yard, a colourful little courtyard just off Shorts Gardens, filled with charming shops and cafes that look like they popped straight out of a storybook.

This spot can get really busy during the day, which shows just how popular it is with both locals and tourists.

However, If you visit early in the morning, you can enjoy the area without the crowds and maybe be the first in line for a delicious latte from 26 Grains.

WANDER THROUGH TIME IN GODWIN’S COURT

If you’re up for more exploration, make your way to the enchanting Goodwin’s Court. It really feels like stepping back in time.

A discreet set of steps from St. Martin’s Lane will take you through a low archway into a beautifully preserved alleyway.

It is lined with ornate window fronts and gas lamps that feel like they’re straight out of a Charles Dickens novel, or maybe even Harry Potter. You half-expect to see a wizard on a broomstick to swoop by at any moment.

Between St. Martin's Lane and Bedfordbury, London

UNCOVER THE SECRETS INSIDE FREEMASONS’ HALL

The Freemasons’ Hall is an impressive Art Deco building, originally constructed as a memorial for the masons who lost their lives in World War I. Its striking architecture has made it a popular location for films and TV shows.

Some areas of the building are open to the public, and the interior is definitely worth exploring – especially the Grand Temple, which boasts ornate décor brimming with fascinating symbolism.

You can find out more about its history on a guided tour.

60 Great Queen Street, London

Book a Freemasons Tour of London

Book a Guided Tour of Freemasons' Hall

UNWIND IN THE HIDDEN OASIS OF PHOENIX GARDEN

Just a stone’s throw from the bustling Covent Garden Piazza lies a hidden gem: Phoenix Garden.

A friend first told me about this tranquil oasis after spotting it in the film ‘Last Christmas’ with Emilia Clarke.

When I finally made the visit, I was completely captivated. This garden is a pocket of lush greenery that feels like a secret world.

It’s so tucked away that you could easily spend hours here without encountering another soul – just you and a few curious birds.

21 Stacey Street, St. Giles, London

GO ON A TREASURE HUNT IN COVENT GARDEN

If you want to explore London in a fun way, try a Covent Garden treasure hunt from Treasure Trails. You’ll learn fun facts and discover hidden places as you follow clues and solve puzzles.

It’s a fantastic way to see the area from a different perspective. I did this treasure hunt with a friend, and it was one of my favourite experiences in London.

To learn more about London Treasure Trails, check out my article here.

WATCH A WEST END SHOW

Visit one of Covent Garden’s famous theatres to see a musical or play – whether it’s The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, or another timeless production.

There’s something truly magical about spending an evening at the theatre, perhaps with a glass of wine in hand. It’s one of my favourite ways to unwind.

I usually use TodayTix to grab discounted seats. However, you can also plan ahead and book your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss the show.

Book your tickets on TodayTix

INDULGE IN A FANCY COCKTAIL AT A SECRET BAR

Covent Garden is home to some quirky secret bars where you can enjoy a fancy cocktail at night.

Check out Cache Cache if you’re up for an adventure. I like the secret passageways and hidden doors that lead to a bar tucked away in underground vaults.

For something more experimental, head to Eve Bar, which offers creative cocktails crafted with unusual ingredients.

And if you’re in the mood for delicious food with your drinks, head to El Ta’Koy to pair your cocktails with tasty tacos, bao buns, and poke bowls.

Cache Cache: 5 The Piazza, London 

Eve Bar: 34 Southampton St, London

El Ta'Koy: 3 Henrietta St, London

STRIKE A POSE WITH THE BALLERINA AND ICONIC RED PHONE BOXES

Checck out the Young Dancer sculpture by Enzo Plazzotta, located in Broad Court, right across from the Royal Opera House.

This statue is one of Plazzotta’s most famous works. It is set against the backdrop of iconic red telephone booths, making it a fantastic spot for a photo.

5 Broad Court, London

HAVE A LAUGH AT COVENT GARDEN COMEDY CLUB

And since laughter is the best remedy for life’s worries (or at least a great distraction), visit the Covent Garden Comedy Club for a night of top-notch stand-up.

You’ll see some of the best comedians from the international circuit performing in a cozy, intimate setting. Many of them are stars from radio and TV.

Freemasons Arms 81/82 Long Acre, London 

Book your tickets here

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Covent Garden Fast Facts

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Getting There

If you’re taking the Tube, hop on the Piccadilly line and get off at Covent Garden Station – you’ll land right in the heart of the action.

Just be ready for a bit of a wait for the lifts, as they can get pretty crowded. You can always take the stairs—just remember that it’s 193 steps to the top (yikes!).

Alternatively, you can get off at Leicester Square Station or a Charing Cross Station, which are just a short walk from Covent Garden.

Plenty of buses pass through the area too. I recommend using a city mapper app to help you plan your journey.

Staying There

Covent Garden has no shortage of hotels, including some of London’s most luxurious, making it a great choice for a special getaway.

For something absolutely unique and upscale, consider the glamorous Henrietta Hotel, Savoy, One Aldwych or the fairytale-like Rosewood Hotel – you really can’t go wrong with any of these options.

If you’re looking for something more mid-range, consider The Z Hotel Covent Garden or a Fielding Hotel. They offer a nice balance of comfort and value without sacrificing quality.

Dining There

Covent Garden boasts a vast range of dining options so you can be sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds.

You can explore the choices here and book a restaurant that suits your tastes.

One of my personal favourites is Rucola, a cosy rooftop restaurant with a Northern-Italian inspired menu, and lovely views. It’s one of those hidden spots most tourists miss.

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Enjoy exploring Covent Garden! I’d love to hear your tips and recommendations, so feel free to share them in the comments below.