7 Best Things to Do in Covent Garden: Our Top Local Guide

We think that visiting London is one of the most exciting things you can do. There is one place that we always go back to. That place is Covent Garden. The air is always full of the smell of fresh food and the sound of people laughing.

We want to share our favorite parts of this area with you. We have found the best spots that make us feel happy and relaxed. Walking around Covent Garden is the best way to see the real London.

We wrote this guide to help you plan a trip that is easy and full of joy. Here are the best things to do in Covent Garden, London, which we think you should do when you visit.

Key Takeaways

• Watch world-class street performers and musicians for free at the iconic Covent Garden Piazza.
• Visit the London Transport Museum for an interactive look at the history of London’s famous red buses.
• Discover hidden gems like Neal’s Yard and Cecil Court for the best photo spots and local magic.
• Experience the best of London’s West End theatre and culture right in the heart of the city.
• Save time and avoid long queues by booking your attraction tickets in advance online.

1. Watch the Street Performers in the Piazza

The main part of Covent Garden is the Piazza. It is a big open space where everyone hangs out. You will see travelers sitting here because there is always something to see. You will find musicians, magicians, and acrobats.

These people are very good at what they do. They actually have to pass a test to perform in this spot. This means the shows are always high-quality and very fun to watch.

We often find a spot on the stone steps to watch the show. It is a great way to take a break while you enjoy the talent. Piazza is a great place to start your morning.

2. See the History at the London Transport Museum

We really think this museum is a must-visit for everyone. It is located right in the corner of the Piazza. It tells the story of how people have moved around London for a long time. You can see old buses and trains that look very cool. It is very colorful, and it is great for people of all ages.

The museum is very interactive, which I really liked. You can even sit on some of the old trains and take photos. It makes us feel like we are on a little adventure. We suggest that you get your tickets early so you do not have to wait in a long line. 

Getting your London Transport Museum tickets is a very smart move. It helps you save time, and you can go straight inside.

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3. Find the Secret Spots for Harry Potter Fans

If you like magic, you will love the area around Covent Garden. There are small alleys that look like they belong in a movie. Walk through Cecil Court. It is a tiny street full of old books and maps. Many people say this street helped inspire the Harry Potter books. Walking through here feels like you are in a secret world.

We think that a bit of magic is great for any vacation. It is fun to find these hidden places. After you explore these streets, you might want to see even more of the city. We suggest checking out the Magical London Harry Potter walking tour. 

It is a fun way to see the city with a guide. If you want to see famous people, you should also check out the wax museum in London. It is a very popular place, and it is not far from here.

4. Relax in the Colors of Neal’s Yard

This one is a favorite spot when we want some peace. It is called Neal’s Yard. It is a tiny courtyard that is hidden between the tall buildings. The walls are painted in bright blues, yellows, and greens. There are lots of plants everywhere. It looks like a secret garden in the middle of the city.

It is very quiet here compared to the busy streets outside. They sell a lot of natural products and tasty food in the shop here. It is one of the hidden gem places in Europe that we think everyone should see. 

5. Catch a Show in the West End

Covent Garden is right in the middle of the theater district. We believe that seeing a live show is one of the best things you can do in London. The music and the acting are always amazing. It is an experience that you will remember for a long time.

If you like having a lot of fun, you might also want to read about the best fun parks in Europe or the best theme parks in Europe. They are different from a play, but they are still a great way to spend your day.

6. Visit the Royal Opera House

You do not need a ticket for a show to visit this building. It is very big and very pretty. We love going to the terrace at the top. It is free to go up there,  and you get a great view of the Piazza. You can look down at all the shops and the people below.

The inside of the building is very impressive too. It is a very calm place to walk around. They often have small exhibits about the shows they do. We think it is a great way to see some culture without spending any money. It is a very fancy place, and it makes us feel special. 

7. Find Peace at St. Paul’s Church

This church is known as the Actors’ Church. It is located right behind where the street performers work. We love the garden here because it is very quiet and green. There are plaques on the walls for many famous actors. 

It is a great place to sit and think for a few minutes. Life in London moves very fast. It is important to take a break during your busy day of sightseeing. It is a very peaceful spot, and it is one of our favorite places to hide from the crowds.

Planning Your Perfect Trip

Choose your time carefully to enjoy every minute of it. We want your trip to be as fun as it can be. 

Best Time

January to February is less crowded. The time of year you go can make a big difference. If you are going early in the year, you might look at the best places to visit in February. 

London is a bit cold then, but it is very cozy. If you wait for the flowers to bloom, you should check the best places to visit in April. 

How To Get There

• Getting to Covent Garden is very easy. We usually take the train, but the station gets very full. We often walk from other nearby stations instead. 
• If you want to see all the big sights, we suggest the hop-on hop-off bus tours. It is an easy way to see the Tower of London or the London Eye without walking too much.

More For You: If you are looking for some sun later on, you might like the best beach spots in Europe or the best beach destinations in Europe. But for a great city trip, London is the best choice.

FAQ: Things to do in Covent Garden

1. What is the best time to visit Covent Garden?

We think the morning is great if you want it to be quiet. The shops open around 10 am. If you want to see the performers and feel the energy, the evening is the best time to go.

2. Is Covent Garden good for families?

Yes, we think it is perfect for families. Kids will love the Transport Museum and the street performers in the Piazza. There are also many shops that kids will find fun.

3. How do I get to Covent Garden?

The easiest way is to take the Piccadilly line to the Covent Garden station. You can also walk from Leicester Square or Holborn. It is very easy to find.

4. Is there free stuff to do in Covent Garden?

Yes, there is a lot to do for free. You can watch the performers and walk through the markets. You can also visit the garden at St. Paul’s Church or the terrace at the Opera House without paying.

Final Thoughts

Covent Garden is a very special place. It has history, art, and a lot of energy. We think it is the best part of London for anyone who wants to see the city. We hope you visit these seven spots we talked about. They have given us many happy memories, and we think you will love them too. Exploring the best things to do in Covent Garden, London, is a great way to experience the city’s charm and have a great time on your trip.