The elegant Piazza, an Italianate styled main square, is Covent Garden's centrepiece. It’s the heart of a vibrant area offering a wide choice of theatres, shops, restaurants, cafes and public houses.

Free daily shows by the entertaining street performers take place by the portico (porch) of St Paul’s Church and inside the Central Market House. 

History

The Piazza was originally laid out in the 1630s for the 4^th Earl of Bedford by the famous architect Inigo Jones. The square has been much altered since then and today the only surviving part of the original design is St Paul’s Church Covent Garden, also known as the actors’ church.

The Piazza became the location of London’s largest fruit and vegetable market until it re-located in the 1970s. Since then it has transformed itself into one of the leading entertainment districts in central London. 

Things to look out for

The Apple Market and Jubilee Market Hall are open daily. Mondays there's an antiques market, Tuesdays to Fridays there is a general market and at the weekends there's a craft market.

In the Central Market House there is a selection of shops. One of the most intriguing is the tiny, old fashioned Segar and Snuff Parlour, instantly recognisable for its kilted Highlander statue which stands by the entrance.

 London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum is housed in a former flower market. Its display tells the story of London’s transport history over the last 200 years through interactive displays and there is the opportunity to see some iconic London Transport vehicles. Admission charge payable. For more information see their website.

The Piazza is only a small part of what there is to see in the area. To explore Covent Garden further book on the Covent Garden and its Hidden Corners or Covent Garden and its Sinister Secrets walks. 

The author of this blog is a qualified City of London and City of Westminster Tour Guide who leads guided walks combining world famous landmarks with hidden treasures often missed by the crowds.

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