DK Travel : London : Covent Garden

One of London’s liveliest areas, Covent Garden is a popular destination for Londoners and tourists alike. At its heart is the capital’s first planned square, laid out in the 17th century by Inigo Jones and recently completed by the addition of the imperious, pearly-white Royal Opera House. In spite of such grandeur, there is still a local feel to the surrounding streets and lanes, especially around Neal’s Yard and Endell Street. To the south of Covent Garden is another recently developed institution, Somerset House, which contains the Courtauld Institute Gallery and two other major galleries. To get the full impact of the imposing riverside setting, enter from the Embankment side.

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A Walk around Covent Garden

Morning

Take the tube to Leicester Square and have a coffee at the Arts Theatre café before taking in the latest exhibition at the Photographer’s Gallery next door.

Head up Monmouth Street to Seven Dials, a lofty sundial where seven streets converge. Check out the market stalls and shops in Earlham Street then continue up Monmouth Street to the small entrance to Neal’s Yard with its fine cheese and bread shops. Buy soap at Neal’s Yard apothecary. Visit Covent Garden Piazza for some pre-lunch fun from the street entertainers outside Inigo Jones’ elegant St Paul’s Church. Take a look inside before lunch in the Royal Opera House’s Amphitheatre Restaurant, with its wonderful views.

Afternoon

Leave the Piazza via Russell Street, past the TheatreMuseum, down Wellington Street to the Strand. Cross the road and turn left to the recently refurbished Somerset House, home of the Courtauld Institute . Start with their collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings. Pause to relax by the Courtyard fountains or at the River Terrace Café before checking out the Gilbert Collection’s decorative arts objects. Alternatively, visit the Hermitage Rooms which recreate, in miniature, the imperial splendour of the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg.
Africa Centre

The centre has a restaurant and bar as well as a bookshop on two floors. Ethnic goods are also sold.
Belgo Centraal

Mussels with mayonnaise and fries, washed down with one of a 100 different beers, are the mainstay here, with waiters dressed as monks serving at the long refectory tables. Try the set- price £6 lunches.
Bush House

Home of the BBC World Service, Bush House has an imposing portico on its north side. In the Bush House arcade the BBC World Service Shop sells tapes, videos and books.
Café des Amis du Vin

Located in a side alley next to the Royal Opera House, this cafe is a good bet if you are looking to dine somewhere central. It serves good, fresh food at reasonable prices.
Chez Gerard

This branch of a popular chain of French restaurants has a glass roof and spectacular setting overlooking Covent Garden market. Robust, unfussy French food at its best. The café is open 11am–5pm.
Courtauld Institute Gallery

Founded in 1932 for the study of the history of European art, the Courtauld is part of Britain’s oldest institute for teaching the history of art. Located in the North Block of Somerset House thegallery rooms are particularly strong on Impressionist paintings. Each Tuesday at 1:15pm there is a free talk on one of the paintings in the exhibition.
Dr Martens Store

The name is familiar but you will be surprised at the varieties that these boots and shoes come in. Well worth a browse
Ellis Brigham

All the outdoor gear you could ever want plus lots of useful gadgets and gizmos.
Floral Street

This stylish street is home to Paul Smith, which sells trendy clothes, Camper shoes and cool French designer Agnes B.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes, and extra charges.
- under £15
- £15–£25
- £25–£35
- £35–£50
- over £50