The London Traveler

One of the more scenic and popular markets in London is the Covent Garden Market. This market is in the true heart of tourist London, just a short walk from Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square. While you might not find the best deals in the city there, you will most certainly find some very unique gifts for yourself or your family and friends.

The area has had a market since Roman times, and was known for several hundred years for its flower, fruit and vegetable market. In the mid-70’s traffic congestion moved the main marketplace a few miles away, and the area transformed to the tourist-type market that it is today.

Covent Garden has a mix of regular shops, market stalls, cafes, restaurants and more. At one end of the market is a large public plaza, which often has entertainers of all sorts performing for the crowds. (It’s the only place in London where street entertainers can perform.)

In addition to the main market, the neighborhood is full of really unique places to browse, shop and eat. I would highly recommend exploring the surrounding neighborhood for even more interesting shops!

Other attractions nearby include the London Transport Museum and the Royal Opera House. The Transport Museum is currently finishing a long renovation, and should open November 22nd. If nothing else, stop by the gift shop for some really interesting gifts, like pillows and bags made from upholstery remnants from buses and Tube trains.

When:
Monday through Saturday, 10am – 7pm
Sunday, 11am – 6pm
Getting There:
Take the Underground to Covent Garden or Leicester Square stations, on the Piccadilly and Northern Lines.

Map:

View Larger Map

Previous Market Mondays
Monday, 22 October – Camden Market
Monday, 15 October – Marylebone Farmer’s Market
Monday, 8 October – Borough Market
Monday, 1 October – Portobello Road Market

Photos from Flickr. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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