Hotels near Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom

Covent Garden street performers timings vary according to the day, weather and season. Shows typically begin around mid-morning, often starting between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, although there are sometimes performers around as early as 9:00 AM on Saturdays.

The area tends to be liveliest in the early afternoon and early evening, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons, when audiences gather to enjoy a vibrant mix of music, magic, juggling and comedy acts. Street performers usually continue throughout the afternoon, winding down by early evening as the crowds thin.

Covent Garden’s street entertainment is known for its spontaneity and charm, so visitors can often discover unexpected shows popping up at different spots in the courtyard. For those wanting to catch performances, visiting during peak hours offers the greatest chance of enjoying a full line-up of street artists.

Covent Garden has many unique shops, offering a blend of creativity, craftsmanship and eclectic style. Visitors will find a range of boutiques specialising in artisan crafts, bespoke jewellery, vintage fashion and carefully curated homeware.

The area is also well known for independent designers, specialty stores and quirky gifts.

In addition to fashion and accessories, there are stores dedicated to books, gourmet foods and niche beauty products, making Covent Garden a destination for those seeking looking to purchase something a little different.

Yes, Covent Garden’s indoor market is housed within the historic Market Building. This market offers a mix of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and artwork to unique jewellery and fashion accessories.

Visitors can explore a variety of offerings including vintage items, limited-edition prints and bespoke gifts crafted by local artisans. Alongside the crafts, there are also food and drink stalls presenting gourmet treats, fresh produce and specialty products.

The indoor market is a popular spot year-round and has long been a part of Covent Garden’s cultural scene.

Covent Garden’s pre-theatre dining options cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. Many restaurants provide menus specifically designed for theatre-goers, featuring quicker service and set dining options timed to ensure clients arrive at the show comfortably.

Whether visitors prefer classic British dishes, international flavours, or light bites, there is plenty to choose from in this area, close to the West End theatres. Popular dining times for pre-theatre meals typically start around 5:30 pm and run until 7:00 pm, allowing ample time for a relaxed meal before curtain up.

It’s advisable to book ahead, especially on weekends and during peak theatre seasons.

Covent Garden souvenirs capture the spirit of London and the area’s artistic flair. Shoppers can pick up a wide variety of keepsakes including handcrafted jewellery, quirky home décor, unique artwork and charming vintage finds.

There are also speciality shops offering London-themed gifts such as prints, fashion accessories and personalised items. The blend of traditional and contemporary stalls means visitors can find souvenirs that are both meaningful and distinctive, well‑suited for gifting to friends and family.

Covent Garden offers a more original souvenir shopping experience compared to standard tourist shops.