Discover the fascinating architectural history of this significant area, anchored around one of London’s most popular destinations, Covent Garden Market

Explore Covent Garden Market and Piazza - Inigo Jones’ late 17th-century revolutionary slice of town planning for the Earl of Bedford, and surrounding areas. 

 

Steeped in history, this buzzing retail and cultural hotspot takes you on a journey through time. The walk will lead you from the 18th-century formality of one of London’s best-preserved squares on the Bedford Estate to the 21st-century version in Renzo Piano’s Central St Giles. Key buildings on the route include major cultural institutions including the London Transport Museum in the former Covent Garden Flower Market Building, and the refurbished Royal Opera House by Stanton Williams. Each an ingenious modern infill rising inside the original street grid, respecting, revitalising and protecting this buzzing and densely populated residential, retail and office zone.

This walk is led by an experienced Blue Badge Guide.

Duration: 2 hours approx
 

Key stops: Covent Garden Piazza, Covent Garden Market Building, London Transport Museum, Royal Opera House, Bedford Square, Seven Dials, Central Saint Giles, Neal’s Yard