Covent Garden is one of London’s most iconic and vibrant destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year with its charming cobbled streets, high-end shops, street performers, and historic market halls. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, one of the most important questions to ask is: Is Covent Garden open every day? This article provides a comprehensive overview of Covent Garden’s general opening hours, tips for visitors, and some special considerations to help you plan your trip.
Covent Garden is open every day of the week, with various attractions, shops, and eateries welcoming visitors throughout the year. Whether you’re planning to visit the bustling Piazza, explore the Market Building, or enjoy the various entertainment options, there’s always something happening at Covent Garden. However, it’s essential to understand the different timings for the various attractions and shops, as these can vary depending on the day and time of year.
Opening Hours
Covent Garden offers a variety of activities and shops for all types of visitors, from the early risers to the night owls. Below are the general opening hours for various sections of Covent Garden:
Shops
The shops in Covent Garden typically have the following opening hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm
Sunday: 11 am to 6 pm
These hours apply to most of the retail stores in the area, including flagship stores, boutiques, and designer shops. However, individual stores may have their own variations, so it’s always advisable to double-check before planning a visit.
Apple Market
The Apple Market, one of the most popular attractions in Covent Garden, is an open-air market that offers a unique selection of antiques, art, handmade crafts, and jewelry. It is open every day from:
Daily: 10 am to 6 pm
It’s a great place to find unique gifts or souvenirs while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden.
East Colonnade Market
Another popular market in Covent Garden is the East Colonnade Market, where visitors can find artisan goods, street food, and crafts. The East Colonnade Market operates with the following hours:
Daily: 10:30 am to 7 pm
This market is located near the Piazza and offers a more relaxed shopping experience compared to the bustling Apple Market. Visitors can wander through the stalls and enjoy a variety of goods from local creators.
Special Considerations
Covent Garden is generally open every day, but there are a few special considerations to keep in mind:
Holiday Hours
During holidays and special events, Covent Garden may alter its opening hours. For example:
Christmas: In December, Covent Garden typically stays open longer to accommodate holiday shopping, though some stores may close earlier on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. On Christmas Day, the area may be closed or have very limited services.
Bank Holidays: Covent Garden usually remains open on public holidays, but some stores may reduce their operating hours.
Special Events: During major events like New Year’s celebrations, the district may be busier, with different opening hours in place. Always check ahead for any specific changes.
Individual Store Hours
While Covent Garden’s general opening times are consistent, individual stores and attractions may have different hours. For instance, the Royal Opera House and other cultural venues may have performance schedules that vary, and specific stores may close for private events or maintenance. It’s a good idea to check the website or call ahead for specific hours of any store or attraction you plan to visit.
Visitor Tips
To make the most out of your visit to Covent Garden, here are a few visitor tips:
Best Times to Visit
Covent Garden is a popular destination, meaning it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. To avoid the largest crowds:
Early Morning (10 am – 12 pm): Arriving early gives you the best chance to explore the area before the crowds flood in.
Late Afternoon (4 pm – 6 pm): If you’re looking for a quieter experience but still want to see the atmosphere, visit during late afternoon.
Weekdays: If possible, visit Covent Garden during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, especially on Saturday, which is the busiest day.
Accessibility
Covent Garden is committed to providing accessible facilities for all visitors. Some of the accessibility features include:
Wheelchair Access: There are accessible entrances and ramps at various points throughout Covent Garden, including the Market Building and Apple Market.
Public Restrooms: Accessible toilets are available for visitors with disabilities.
Assistance: Staff members are often available to provide assistance for any mobility or accessibility needs.
It’s recommended to visit the Covent Garden website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on accessibility and facilities for visitors with special needs.
Additional Attractions Near Covent Garden
Covent Garden is not only home to shopping and street performances—it’s also located near some of London’s most celebrated attractions. After exploring Covent Garden, here are some nearby places you can visit:
Royal Opera House
Just a short walk from Covent Garden, the Royal Opera House is one of the most renowned venues for opera, ballet, and classical music. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in culture and performing arts.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Another nearby gem is the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which has been a focal point of London’s theatre scene for centuries. It hosts major West End productions and offers a memorable experience for theatre lovers.
The National Gallery
If you have a bit more time, the National Gallery is located not far from Covent Garden and houses a remarkable collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
The British Museum
A short bus ride or walk will bring you to the British Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of art and antiquities. If you enjoy history, this is a must-see attraction.
Conclusion
To sum up, Covent Garden is open every day, offering a range of activities, shopping, and dining options. The shops typically open from 10 am to 8 pm Monday to Saturday and 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday, while the markets remain open from 10 am to 6 pm (Apple Market) and 10:30 am to 7 pm (East Colonnade Market). Remember to check individual store or attraction hours, especially during holidays and special events. To avoid large crowds, aim for a morning or late afternoon visit during weekdays, and take advantage of the nearby attractions to make your trip even more memorable.
Whether you’re exploring the markets, watching street performances, or enjoying the nearby theaters and galleries, Covent Garden offers something for everyone every day of the week!
