Covent Garden
Shopping Center | London | England | United Kingdom
Historical shopping district in London
Covent Garden in London is not a traditional shopping center in the sense of a single, enclosed building, but rather an expansive, historic district in the West End that has established itself as one of the city's most famous shopping and cultural destinations. It encompasses a mix of covered market halls, open squares, and surrounding streets, together providing a unique shopping experience. Originally, Covent Garden was a fruit and vegetable market that emerged in the 17th century and operated at this location until 1974, before being relocated to Nine Elms. Since 1980, the area has transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining zone that attracts millions of visitors from around the world. It spans 17 streets and the central piazza, situated close to landmarks such as the Royal Opera House and the London Transport Museum.
Covent Garden market and stalls
The central market hall, known as "The Market Building," is the centerpiece of the shopping area and was built in the neoclassical style by Charles Fowler in 1830. After the wholesale market closed, it was renovated and now houses a variety of shops, cafés, and bars. The "Apple Market" within the hall is particularly known for its craft stalls offering antiques, jewelry, clothing, and gifts. Adjacent to it is the "Jubilee Market," which also presents a colorful mix of crafts, fashion, and second-hand goods, with the offerings varying depending on the day of the week—antiques dominate on Mondays, while art and crafts take center stage on weekends. These markets attract both tourists and locals looking for unique souvenirs.
Shopping and dining experience London
The surrounding streets complement the offerings with a mix of international luxury brands and independent boutiques. Long Acre, one of the main streets, is lined with well-known names like Polo Ralph Lauren, Mulberry, and Apple, with the latter operating one of its largest stores worldwide here. Floral Street features upscale British brands such as Paul Smith and Ted Baker, catering to fashion-conscious shoppers. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the nearby Seven Dials district, just a few steps away, offers over 90 shops and serves as an oasis for independent boutiques and specialty stores—from Stanfords, the world’s largest map and travel bookshop, to Neal’s Yard Remedies, which specializes in natural beauty products. This variety makes Covent Garden a place that has something for every taste, whether one is looking for designer items, handmade goods, or travel souvenirs.
Arts and antiques in Covent Garden
In addition to the shopping aspect, Covent Garden is also a culinary hub. The market hall and surrounding streets offer a wide range of dining experiences, from casual cafés like Apple Butter to upscale restaurants like The Petersham or Balthazar. This diversity of food options attracts visitors looking to take a break after a day of shopping and contributes to the vibrant atmosphere. Street performers who regularly entertain on the piazza enhance the cultural appeal and make shopping an experience that goes beyond mere purchasing.
Independent boutiques in Covent Garden
The architecture of the district, with its cobbled streets and historic piazza, gives Covent Garden a distinctive charm. It was the first public square in London, designed by Inigo Jones in the 17th century, and served as a model for the urban planning of many later residential areas. Today, the area is protected by the Covent Garden Area Trust, which ensures that the historic substance is preserved while it continues to evolve. The ownership of the market halls and some adjacent buildings lies with Shaftesbury Capital, a property company that leases the spaces to the Trust—symbolically represented by an annual rent of a red apple and a bouquet of flowers.
