London's Covent Garden - Heritage

Covent Garden's Historic Market

In the 13th Century, Covent Garden was the kitchen garden for Westminster Abbey, then known as Convent Garden. By the 1600s, the site had evolved into a bustling fruit and vegetable market.

The current market building dates from 1830 and was designed by acclaimed architect Inigo Jones who also designed the church. By the 1980s Covent Garden had been revamped into the fun and funky entertainment spot it is today.

Modern Day Covent Garden

Even though the area has been transformed with new shops and restaurants and many of the buildings, including the Grade I listed Royal Opera House, have undergone sympathetic renovations, as the area is protected to ensure it retains its historic charm.

St Paul's Church, Covent Garden

In an area of London known for its theatres, St Paul's is known as the actors church. The parishioners mainly come from the acting community, boosting the entertainment culture in Covent Garden.

The London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum recently completed a £22m refurbishment and is now a shiny tribute to all that's loved about London's transport system.

The museum is popular with Londoners and not just for anoraks. Explore the history of London's buses, trains, trams and Tube and the people who use them. Don't miss the interactive exhibits and your chance to see plans for the future of London's transport.

The museum has a great new shop where you can buy reproductions of vintage tube posters, and a myriad of items featuring London's iconic transport designs.

Find out more on the Covent Garden website.