21 things to see in Covent Garden in less than 1h (free Covent Garden walking tour with a map)
Covent Garden is one of the most vibrant parts of London.
It is known for its lively markets, street performers, and world-class cultural attractions*.
In this Covent Garden walking tour, you'll discover historic landmarks and less-known hidden gems (often missed by tourists!).
So grab your walking shoes and get ready to experience one of London's most iconic neighborhoods.
Distance to cover: 2.5 miles ( 4 km)
If you click on the maps below, a new window will open for live navigation in the field.
Part 1 (points 1-11)
Part 2 (points 12-21)
THINGS TO SEE NEAR COVENT GARDEN
Oscar Wilde statue
I recommend you start this Covent Garden walking tour by seeing the bench-like statue of Oscar Wilde.
This lovely tribute to the famous Irish writer is located on Adelaide Street, very near Trafalgar Square and Charing Cross tube station.
On this tribute bench, you can see a written quote:
"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars"
2. Cecil Court
The next point on this London walking tour is a charming little street called Cecil Court.
This street is lined with beautifully preserved Victorian buildings and is known for its many bookshops and antiquarian booksellers.
Cecil Court has many claims to fame.
Firstly, in 1764, eight-year Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived in one of the properties on this street during his tour of Europe.
According to some, he composed his first symphony here.
Secondly, in the early 1900s, one of the earliest movie studios in Britain were located here.
They produced many short films and early silent movies, and they were the key players in the development of the British film industry.
Thirdly, many Harry Potter fans believe Cecil Court to be an inspiration for "Diagon Alley".
Magic Money on display and for sale in one of the shops on Cecil Court
Although J. K. Rowling (author of the Harry Potter series) has never confirmed that, the similarities between the two streets are undeniable - both are lined with an interesting shops and certainly have a magical feel to them!
The statue of Harry Potter is located only steps away from Cecil Court, in nearby Leicester Square. Apart from Harry Potter, you can see there many other movie statues like Batman, Paddington Bear, Marry Poppins, and Mr.Bean. See more details on that here.
3. Goodwin’s Court
Goodwin's Court is another narrow, easy-to-miss street in Covent Garden area believed to have inspired some aspects of Knockturn Alley in Harry Potter series.
The buildings on that street were built in the 17th century and haven't changed much since then.
Even if you are not a Harry Potter fan, seeing this hidden gem is a must when visiting the Covent Garden area.
This street runs between St. Martin's Lane and Bedfordbury.
4. The statue of Agatha Christie
The next point on this walking tour is a popular destination for fans of Agatha Christie.
It is a bronze statue of the author located on the junction of 6 small streets: Long Acre, Monmouth St, Garrick St, Upper St Martin’s Lane, Great Newport Street, and Cranbourt St.
The memorial has the shape of a giant book with a depiction of Christie in the middle of it.
If you look closely at the cover of this unique book, you will find there also Miss Marple, Hercule Poirot, and other references to the author's bestselling books.
5. Slingsby Place and St Martin’s Courtyard
St Martin's Courtyard is a vibrant, pedestrianized area located in the heart of London's Covent Garden neighborhood.
It offers a mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. I like it the most for the colorful installations above its walkways.
6. “Creativity is in all of us” mural
When you leave St Martin’s Courtyard, you will see a colorful mural on the London Graphic Centre building.
7. Seven Dials Market
There is no shortage of dining choices in the Covent Garden area. Seven Dials Market is one of them.
It is a multilevel food market that offers a unique blend of delicious food, a lively atmosphere, and historic charm.
An exciting destination for food lovers!
8. Neal’s Yard
Neal’s Yard is a charming, pedestrian-only alleyway and one of the most colorful corners of central London.
It is hidden between Monmouth, Neal, and Short’s Garden streets.
Once it was home for Monthy Python…
Today is known mainly for its vibrant, bohemian atmosphere, colorful architecture, and several quirky shops, independent cafes, and small businesses, many of which specialize in natural or alternative health products.
9. Princess Diana mural
On the entrance to Neal’s Yard (approaching from the Monmouth Street site), you can find a lovely street artwork dedicated to the late Prince Diana.
The late Princess of Wales drops from the sky in a Mary Poppins style to see her grandkids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
Next to this heartwarming scene in red are marked the words:
“You Can Be As Naughty As You Want… Just Don’t Get Caught”
10. Forbidden Planet
The next point on this walk is a comic book store called the Forbidden Planet.
This store is located in the Covent Garden neighborhood, and is known for its extensive selection of comic books, graphic novels, action figures and collectibles.
In addition, it also often hosts a variety of events and signings by authors and other creators throughout the year.
11. Denmark Street
Denmark Street is a small street located only steps from Tottenham Court tube station and within walking distance from the Covent Garden neighborhood.
In the 20th century, Denmark Street was famous for being a hub for music publishers, instrument makers, and recording studios.
Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Elton John, Sex Pistols, and many others recorded or written music here.
At no. 4 (at Regent Sound Studio), the Rolling Stones recorded their first album in 1964.
Sex Pistols lived at no. 6 in the 1960s. They also recorded their first demos there.
No. 9 was a location of Giaconda - a cafe and meeting place for people recording music on Denmark Street. Among its famous regulars were David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix.
At no. 20, Bernie Taupin and Elton John wrote in 1970 their first hit single, "Your Song".
Today, Denmark Street is known mainly for its music shops and guitar stores.
It is a perfect place to buy new or vintage instruments and a must-see spot in London for anyone interested in music history.
12. The “Now” Building
Outside Tottenham Court tube station you can find the "Now" Building.
The walls and ceilings of this modern structure were turned into massive screens, and they display daily the creative artwork of various artists.
Words can hardly do it justice. You just have to see it.
This free immersive experience is provided by Outernet.
13. Dog bench
Not too far from the “Now” Building, you can find a wonderful wooden bench in the shape of a sleeping dog.
14. The oldest umbrella shop in London!
The next spot on this walking tour will take you back to the 19th century, and it is a charming shop with umbrellas called James Smith & Sons.
James Smith & Sons is not an ordinary shop - it is the most famous Umbrella and Walking Stick Shop in London!
It was founded in 1830.
A must-see spot if you are visiting Covent Garden.
Can you think of a better souvenir from London than a fancy umbrella?
The very first James Smith & Sons shop in London was so small that if you wanted to open an umbrella, you needed to go out to the street, as there was not enough space for the testing exercise inside the store!
15. The Cross Keys
The Cross Keys is a tiny, traditional English pub with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere situated on Endell Street (only a short walk from Covent Garden tube station).
The pub is famous for a lovely plant-decorated exterior and a fancy interior (plenty of things hanging from the ceiling and interesting memorabilia on the walls).
A lovely place for a break during the walk around Covent Garden!
16. Ballerina statue and red telephone boxes
The Ballerina statue is a beautiful bronze sculpture located on the east side of the Covent Garden Piazza.
It depicts a young ballerina in a graceful pose undoing her dancing shoes.
The red telephone boxes positioned in the background add a lot to the beauty of this scene.
17. The Royal Opera House
The statue of Ballerina is located (very appropriately) only steps away from the beautiful Royal Opera House - the home to the Royal Opera and the Royal Ballet.
18. Street performers at Covent Garden Piazza
Covent Garden Piazza is a public space located in the heart of London.
It is known for its lively atmosphere and street performances by a diverse group of individuals: musicians, dancers, acrobats, magicians, and comedians.
The street performances at Covent Garden Piazza are free, but the audience is encouraged to leave a small donation in appreciation of usually a great show!
You can see them on most days (when the weather is good), with the busiest times being in the afternoon and early evening.
19. Covent Garden Market
The center of Covent Garden Piazza is occupied by the Covent Garden Market.
Once home to the fruit and vegetable market, today, it serves as a retail and dining destination.
The Covent Garden Market is known for its lively and bustling atmosphere, with crowds of visitors milling about its halls and corridors.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Covent Garden area and one of the best places to visit in London during the Christmas period.
See also: Free London Christmas Lights walking tour.
20. Free Opera Performances!
My absolute favorite features of Covent Garden Market are free (donations welcome!) performances by opera singers.
They typically take place throughout the day at the Market Building's central arcade.
Very talented opera singers perform classic arias.
They are often dressed in period costumes and are accompanied by musicians playing instruments such as the accordion, violin, or piano.
It is a unique and delightful experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the area.
21. Gordon’s Wine Bar
The last place I want to mention here is Gordon’s Wine Bar.
Gordon’s Wine Bar is known as the oldest wine bar in the UK’s capital (established around 1890).
This charming waterhole remains largely unchanged from its early days.
Inside the bar, you will find wooden barrels, vintage wine bottles, and plenty of candles.
The bar also provides a lovely outdoor space.
It is a must-visit destination for all wine lovers. You can find this charming little bar on a narrow street connecting the Embankment with the Stran called Villiers Street.
Gordon’s Wine Bar closes my list of 21 places near Covent Garden worth visiting during your stay in London.
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