Covent Garden: Tours and Guided Visits

Covent Garden is a district of London that brings together history, arts, food, and entertainment. Its origins date back to the 16th century when it was a thriving fruit and vegetable market, and today it is an urban showpiece, attracting tourists and locals alike.

A Covent Garden tour is an immersive experience and is a must, not only for history buffs, food enthusiasts, and art lovers, but for any visitor wanting to experience the vibrant and trendy, yet glamorous and appealing fringe of London’s West End.

Here's your guide to Covent Garden, one of the most authentic options for sightseeing tours in London.

What are the best Covent Garden tours in London?

From a free walking tour to a bespoke private tour, there are a range of tours to choose from. Here are some of the most popular Covent Garden tours:

Free and self-guided walking tours

On a free walking tour of Covent Garden, you will join a small group and an enthusiastic local guide who will show you the highlights of this district, with time for refreshments and maybe even some shopping. With a self-guided walking tour option, you can download an app onto your mobile device and either stream the tour or download it to use at your leisure.

Small-group Covent Garden tours

For a sociable tour with an experienced guide, you can select one of several small group tour options to Covent Garden. Some tours are culture and history-focused, while others are more geared towards enthusiastic shoppers. A pub tour in Covent Garden is another of the small group tour options available.

Bespoke and private Covent Garden tours

For a tour that allows you to customize your itinerary or assures your guide's exclusive attention, you can choose one of the bespoke or private tours to Covent Garden. These types of tours often include a return hotel pickup or collection from one of the nearby transit points.

On a bespoke tour, your guide will ensure that you prioritize your specific interests, while on a private tour, you will be able to set the pace, within reason, as you tour the district with your attentive guide.

Kid-friendly private tours including Covent Garden

If you are touring with your family, you can opt for a private, family-friendly tour that includes a visit to the British Museum, London’s West End and Covent Garden. These tours are focused on both entertainment and education and are a great option for kids of all ages.

What will you see at Covent Garden?

Covent Garden is not just one place, it is an exciting district with so much to see and do.

Apple Market

Tours of Covent Garden should ideally start at the iconic Apple Market, located at the heart of the district. Once famous as a fresh produce market, this spot has now metamorphosed into a bustling hub for antiques, collectables, and handmade crafts.

Neal’s Yard

Neal’s Yard and Neal Street itself offer a treasure trove of quaint and quirky boutiques and shops. The famous Tea House is located here, and sells an astonishing range of teas from throughout the world.

The Transport Museum and Royal Opera House

The London Transport Museum showcases the city’s transport history, from vintage buses to the story of the world's oldest metro system, the museum offers an engaging experience for all age groups.

The Royal Opera House boasts world-class ballet and opera performances and you can visit the opulent auditorium, or enjoy a meal at one of the stunning rooftop restaurants with a panoramic city view.

Restaurants

Covent Garden isn't just about history and the arts. It's also a foodie's paradise. The district is teeming with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. From Italian trattorias to quintessential British pubs, there are options to suit every palate. No trip would be complete without stopping at Covent Garden’s artisanal bakeries and gelaterias.

How much are Covent Garden tours in London?

Exploring Covent Garden is possible even with a limited budget.

Free walking tours do not charge a booking fee, but you may tip your guide at the end of the tour however much you wish. Self-guided audio tour itineraries can cost from between £5 to £7 per device.

A 2-hour guided walk with a small group will cost from £20 per person with a private or bespoke tour costing from £250 per group of up to 15 participants. Pub tours in and around Covent Garden are also popular and costs range from £25 per person as part of a small group to £250 per private group.

Kid-friendly and personalized tours that include the Covent Garden with other attractions range from around £60 per person to £250 per private group or family depending on the duration, itinerary and inclusions.

What do tours include?

Self-guided tours provide access to the guided audio narrative via your mobile device. Otherwise, guided tours, at a minimum, include the services of a local guide.

Private tours may include a round-trip transfer from your hotel or a designated collection point and while food and drinks are not routinely included, these may be offered on some tours.

Where do Covent Garden excursions start?

Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus and Camden Street are all commonly used as meeting places for this type of tour. Private tours may include collection directly from your hotel, or another agreed-upon meeting point.excursions

How long do they last?

A tour that visits or includes Covent Garden can last anywhere between 45 minutes to 4 hours depending on the excursion’s itinerary and inclusions. A typical tour exclusively to Covent Garden takes between 2 to 3 hours, while tours that include the destination in the trip can last as long as 4 hours.

Are Covent Garden visits wheelchair friendly?

Tours to and including Covent Garden vary in terms of accessibility. Some tours are wheelchair friendly and suitable for people with limited or impaired mobility, while others are not. It is best to check this with the individual tour operators.

There are some activities that permit service animals, but these may not be wheelchair friendly. If you book a private or bespoke tour, it may allow you to customize your itinerary to accommodate any constraints.

When is the best time for a Covent Garden tour in London?

The best time to visit Covent Garden is in the spring (March to May). During this period, the weather starts to warm up, but you can still avoid the crowds of the peak tourist summer season. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday.

Morning to early afternoon is a great time to explore the shops, boutiques, and enjoy a coffee or lunch at one of the many cafes. Later in the evening, you can catch a performance at one of the many nearby theatres, dine in a variety of restaurants, or enjoy a drink at a local pub.

What other sightseeing tours can you do in London?

• Thames River tours in London
• Greenwich tours in London
• City tours in London
• Hyde Park tours in London
• Harry Potter locations tours in London

Travel tips

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll likely do a lot of walking. The weather in London can change quickly, so layers and a waterproof jacket are advisable.
• Covent Garden is famous for its street performers. Check performance times to ensure you don't miss out on this unique part of the atmosphere.
• When deciding where to eat, consider booking a table in advance, especially during peak times.