Discover Covent Garden: Unique Experiences Beyond the Tourist Spots

Although mostly known as a playground for theatre enthusiasts, tourists, and Saturday shoppers, Covent Garden has a lot more to offer than it’s often given credit for. In recent years, it has become a foodie hub, showcasing many of London’s best culinary destinations. Eating aside, numerous activities await you: here are 15 unique spots to explore away from the main tourist trails.

Things to Do in Covent Garden

Covent Garden is one of London’s most popular destinations – with its cool hotels, chic boutiques, and grand selection of dining hotspots. It exemplifies the blend of historical charm and modern attraction, steeped in British culture while showcasing contemporary delights.

Go to the Original Monmouth Coffee Shop

Back in 1978, Anita Leroy started roasting beans in the basement of her shop on Monmouth Street. Today, the street is renowned for its fine coffee, with a permanent queue outside for fragrant single-origin beans and expertly brewed filter coffees. Some highly sought-after tables allow you to watch skilled baristas in action.

Address: Monmouth Coffee, 27 Monmouth Street, London WC2H 9EU

Eat Around the World at Seven Dials Market

Street-food enthusiasts can visit this vibrant emporium in a former banana warehouse curated by Kerb, which launched in 2019. Experience an array of culinary delights ranging from unusual ramen combinations to vegan tacos. The vendor Pick and Cheese offers a unique fromage conveyor belt experience for cheese lovers.

Address: Seven Dials Market, Earlham Street, London WC2H 9LX

Have an Alfresco Swim at the Oasis

Discover the heated open-air swimming pool known as the Oasis, situated right in the heart of Covent Garden. On hot days, this hidden gem attracts locals enjoying the sun terrace and the refreshing 27.5-meter pool.

Address: Oasis Sports Centre, 32 Endell Street, London WC2H 9AG

Stock Up on Essentials at Choosing Keeping

For those who value exquisite stationery, Choosing Keeping is a must-visit. This hidden gem showcases a treasure trove of beautiful stationery products, making it ideal for upgrading your workspace.

Address: Choosing Keeping, 21 Tower Street, London WC2H 9NS

Discover a Secret Garden

Behind St Paul’s Church lies a peaceful churchyard, offering a serene escape from the bustle of Covent Garden. It provides a perfect spot to unwind amidst nature.

Address: St Paul’s Churchyard, Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9ED

Geek Out at the London Transport Museum

This fascinating museum contains 200 years of transport history. With exhibits such as the first underground steam-powered engine and a wooden Metropolitan Railway coach, it’s a must-see for history buffs.

Address: London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 7BB

Discover Vintage Delights in Blackout II

Blackout II has been a staple in vintage fashion for over 20 years, showcasing an extensive collection of carefully sourced vintage finds from the 1920s to the 1980s. Their knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding unique treasures.

Address: Blackout II, 51 Endell Street, London WC2H 9AJ