Covent Garden is a tourist destination for many people who make their way to London, as well as a favourite amongst “Londoners” themselves. There is lots to enjoy, such as street performers, incredible shops and markets – and of course the Covent Garden bars are second to none!
If you are on the hunt to see some celebrities – Covent Garden is definitely a good place to do some celeb spotting too so remember your selfie stick.
History of Covent Garden
Although now, Covent Garden is considered to be a fashionable hotspot and is known for its stylish bars and restaurants – it is easy to forget it’s actually steeped in history and was once something more traditional than it is now.
In 1200, part of the garden had been segmented by Westminster and referred to as “the Garden of the Abbey or the Convent” originally, and this later became Covent Garden. It then became a residential square in the 1500’s, and by the 1600’s – those infamous fruit and veg stalls were developed as part of the fashionable square that we all now associate with the hotspot. They also had famous flower stalls – think My Fair Lady, when Audrey Hepburn took her infamous stroll through the market and picked up flowers and you will be on the right track.
Bars and Restaurants
One of the best things about this London hotspot is the bars Covent Garden has to offer, and the cute restaurants too. There are some great destinations for you to check out – and definitely some quirky venues that you won’t find anywhere else.
This bar in Covent Garden has it all and fits in exactly with the style of its surroundings. They have live bands and shows, themed rooms – and an extensive drinks menu that would take you a long time to get through. It is located on Drury Lane, so right in the heart of Covent Garden and easy to get to.
It is known for its Italian style dining, however in true Covent Garden style – you will find that it also has live entertainment in spade loads, and swanky rooms such as “The Martini Room” that you can hire out. This is definitely a great place to check out if ever in the area.
Some Covent Garden Landmarks
There are many landmarks associated with Covent Garden such as The Royal Opera House which is often just referred to as Covent Garden. Here you will find classical music, ballet, dance and theatre. It is known as home to the Royal Ballet.
The central square of Covent Garden is also known as the “Piazza”. Here is where you will find lots of street performers entertaining you – and on the west side of that you will find St Pauls’ Church. The Piazza is also where you will also find the stalls of the market traders. The London Transport Museum is also at Covent Garden if you are looking to get more culture in, as is the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane.
