Complete Guide To Visiting Covent Garden Market

Last Updated on 13 October, 2025

No trip to London is complete without a visit to Covent Garden Market — one of the city’s most iconic and vibrant shopping and dining destinations.

Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, this historic market blends heritage architecture, luxury boutiques, artisan crafts, and global cuisine.

Whether you’re here for a food tour, boutique shopping, or a weekend brunch, Covent Garden promises the perfect mix of history, culture, and style.

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The Markets Of Covent Garden

Covent Garden Market actually consists of several distinct markets — each offering a unique experience for visitors.

Whether you’re searching for handmade gifts, vintage treasures, or London souvenirs, these markets are perfect for weekend browsing or shopping days out in the West End.

Apple Market – Once a bustling fruit and vegetable market, now home to artisan crafts, handmade jewellery, and designer gifts. Perfect for souvenir shopping in Covent Garden.
East Colonnade Market – A treasure trove of local makers and independent traders, selling everything from hand-poured candles and soaps to children’s knitwear and artwork.
Jubilee Market – Ideal for antique lovers and collectors, offering vintage books, fine china, and jewellery from multiple eras.

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A little history of Covent Garden Market

Dating back to 1654, Covent Garden Market began as one of London’s first fruit and vegetable markets, serving the growing city around St Paul’s Churchyard.

Over the centuries, it evolved into a hub for trade, theatre, and entertainment — shaping Covent Garden into the cultural landmark it is today.

What To Expect When Visiting Covent Garden Market

Covent Garden Market is more than just a shopping destination — it’s a lifestyle experience.

Expect to find artisan food stalls, luxury fashion stores, home décor boutiques, and street food vendors serving everything from fresh pastries to global cuisine.

Whether you’re planning a day of shopping, a family outing, or a romantic London date, Covent Garden offers plenty to see and do.

Stop by The Apple Market for unique gifts, enjoy al fresco dining at one of the Covent Garden restaurants, or simply soak up the atmosphere with a coffee in the Piazza.

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Things To Do In Covent Garden

Covent Garden isn’t just about shopping — it’s one of the best cultural and entertainment districts in London. Here are some of the top things to do nearby:

Catch a West End show at one of the nearby theatres for a perfect London theatre break.
Enjoy afternoon tea at one of Covent Garden’s elegant cafes or boutique hotels.
Visit Neal’s Yard for colourful photo ops and vegan-friendly cafes.
Discover street performers in the Piazza, a signature Covent Garden experience.
Explore nearby Trafalgar Square, Soho, and Leicester Square for nightlife, dining, and art galleries.

How To Get To Covent Garden Market

Getting to Covent Garden Market is easy thanks to its central London location. The nearest Underground station is Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), just a two-minute walk from the Piazza.

Other nearby stations include Leicester Square, Charing Cross, and Holborn, making it accessible from all parts of London.

For walking tours or sightseeing itineraries, Covent Garden is within easy reach of Soho, Trafalgar Square, and the Southbank — perfect for a day of exploring London’s landmarks.

A number of bus routes also stop near Covent Garden Market. The 6, 9, 11, 13, 15, 23, 87, and 91 buses all stop on Covent Garden Piazza, just a minute’s walk from the market hall. If you’re driving to Covent Garden, there are several car parks nearby. The nearest is the NCP Car Park on Drury Lane, just a two-minute walk from the market.

Covent Garden Market is one of London’s most iconic markets. With a history dating back to 1654, it’s easy to see why this market is so popular with locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, flowers, clothes, or books, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for at Covent Garden Market.

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Covent Garden Market Parking

I would highly recoment using public transport when visiting Covent Garden. While you may find parking, you might need to hunt for it to find it if you want off street parking. Otherwise paid car parks in Covent Garden are below:

Q-Park Covent Garden – 24-hour parking, 2-minute walk from the Piazza. – 34-35 Bedfordbury, London WC2N 4DU – Open 24 hours
Just Park: St Martin’s St, London WC2H 7HH – Open 24 hours
NCP London Covent Garden – Convenient for shoppers and theatre-goers. – Parker Mews, London WC2B 5NT – Open 24 hours
Urban Parking Shelton street: 42 Shelton St, London WC2H 9HJ – Open 24 hours
Q-Park Chinatown – Ideal if you’re exploring Soho and Leicester Square too. – Newport Pl, London WC2H 7PU – Open 24 hours

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FAQ

What is Covent Garden Market known for?
It’s famous for its artisan shopping, historic architecture, and vibrant food scene in the heart of London’s West End.

Are there restaurants in Covent Garden Market?
Yes! You’ll find everything from street food vendors and coffee stalls to fine dining restaurants and cocktail bars nearby.

What can I do near Covent Garden Market?
Enjoy shopping, West End theatre shows, live music, museums, and afternoon tea — all within walking distance.

Is Covent Garden family-friendly?
Absolutely. With its street performers, open-air spaces, and family-friendly restaurants, it’s ideal for all ages.

What time is Covent Garden Market open?
Most shops and stalls open around 10 am and close between 6–8 pm, though restaurants and bars stay open later.

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