Covent Garden

Covent Garden isn’t just a single attraction – it’s several attractions rolled into one giant area of fun in the West End. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in London and you will face large crowds.
Covent Garden is a vibrant area of London, famous for its markets, street performers, and cultural attractions. It has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was originally a fruit and vegetable market. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The history of Covent Garden can be traced back to the 16th century, when it was known as “Convent Garden” due to its location near a convent. In the 17th century, the area became a popular market for fruit and vegetables, and it soon became the largest fruit and vegetable market in London. The market continued to operate until the mid-20th century when it was moved to a new location.

During the 19th century, Covent Garden underwent a transformation with the introduction of new buildings and attractions. The Royal Opera House was built in 1858, and the area became a hub for entertainment and culture. In the early 20th century, the area became a popular spot for street performers, and this tradition continues today with the famous Covent Garden street performers drawing crowds from all over the world.

Today, Covent Garden is a bustling area with a wide range of attractions and activities. The market halls are now home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering visitors a unique shopping and dining experience. The area is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Royal Opera House, the London Transport Museum, and the Somerset House.

One of the main draws of Covent Garden is its street performers. These talented performers can be found throughout the area, entertaining crowds with their music, acrobatics, and comedy. The performers are licensed by the local council, and visitors are encouraged to show their appreciation by tipping them.

In addition to the street performers, Covent Garden is home to a number of other attractions. The London Transport Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of transport in London. The museum has a vast collection of vehicles, including buses, trains, and trams, as well as interactive exhibits and displays.

The Royal Opera House is another popular attraction in Covent Garden. The building is home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet, and visitors can take guided tours of the building to learn more about its history and architecture.

For those interested in art, the Somerset House is a must-visit. The building is home to a number of art exhibitions throughout the year, as well as a range of other cultural events.

When visiting Covent Garden, there are a few tips to keep in mind. The area can be very busy, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds. There are also a number of pedestrianized streets in the area, so be prepared to do a lot of walking.

If you’re planning to visit the street performers, it’s worth noting that they typically perform throughout the day, but the busiest times are in the afternoon and early evening. To get the best view of the performances, try to arrive early and find a good spot to watch from.

Overall, Covent Garden is a vibrant and exciting area of London, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, culture, or entertainment, there is plenty to see and do in this historic part of the city.
But it’s worth it. The center of activity in Covent Garden is centered on the Piazza and the Old Market which has been sympathetically turned into retails shops, restaurants and the always fun Apple Market.

Surrounding the Piazza is more shops and attractions, including the London Transport Museum (a must see for transport geeks).

You really feel the buzz of tourist London here.