Covent Garden has to be one of the coolest places in London. That’s why we chose this vibrant area of the West End to launch our first Libre London pop-up shop in April 2023. It’s been so wonderful to meet our customers in real life and be immersed in this vibrant area with its quintessential British charm.
No matter if you’re a seasoned Londoner or tourist, Covent Garden offers something for everyone, with its stunning architecture, theatres, museums, award-winning restaurants and treasure trove of independent shops. Here’s our round-up of the 5 best things to do in Covent Garden.
- Shop until you drop
Covent Garden is a world-class destination for shopping. Away from the usual high street offerings, Neal’s Yard, Floral Street and Seven Dials are home to a variety of quirky shops and provide hours of happy browsing.
Markets are a big part of Covent Garden’s history, and that continues today with the Apple Market, which sells handmade wares and Jubilee Market, which sells antiques and collectibles.
It’s worth paying a visit to Cecil Court, home to Watkins Books, one of the world’s oldest spiritual bookshops, where you can book in-store readings with professional astrologers and psychics.
Libre London’s pop-up store is located at 138 Long Acre, and is part of a shopping and dining destination called The Yards. We are known for our amazing selection of cocktail and evening dresses, and have a fab selection of handbags. Whether you’re looking for a wedding guest dress or something for a special night out, we have your back.
We couldn’t write this blog post without mentioning our neighbours Buns from Home, if you’re feeling a little peckish after browsing in our shop, pop next door and sample one of their famous cinnamon buns.
- Dine in style
Covent Garden is foodie heaven with so many amazing eateries. If you’re keen for a post-shopping lunch with the girls, check out the other food options at The Yards, near our shop. There’s sure to be something that hits the spot with the likes of popular eateries Dishoom, Bill’s and Dalla Terra Wine Bar & Restaurant in the mix.
When it comes to fine dining, Clos Maggorie offers a dreamy experience with French-inspired cuisine, fine wines, and Instagramable decor including flowers on the walls and the ceilings, not forgetting the perfectly set tables. It’s no wonder it’s referred to as ‘the most romantic restaurant in London’.
Want a show-stopping tasting menu? Book a table Michelin-star restaurant Frog by Adam Handling, where food is a theatrical experience and plays to all the senses.
- See a show
On the subject of entertainment, Covent Garden offers an embarrassment of riches, being home to more than 20 theatres including Aldwych Theatre, and London Coliseum.
The Royal Opera House is one of the most iconic venues in London, originally built in 1858, many legends have performed there including opera singers Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti, and ballerina extraordinaire Margot Fonteyn.
From musicals (Frozen, Lion King, Tina - The Tina Turner Musical) to ballet, opera, and experimental theatre at Donmar Warehouse, there really is something to suit all ages and tastes in Covent Garden.
- Visit a museum
The London Transport Museum takes you on a journey of over 200 years of the city’s transport history, and gives a peek at new technologies that may help us travel in the future. There’s a fabulous transport-themed ‘All Aboard’ playzone for little ones where they can play on a Thames Nipper, a London bus – and dress up in uniforms to be mechanics, cleaners and drivers. When it comes to grown-ups, the museum opens late on select Friday evenings, with a bar and host of expert speakers, perfect for a date night.
- Go for a cocktail
One of the great joys in life is getting dressed up and going for cocktails, and there are plenty of fabulous options in Covent Garden. You need somewhere to show off your new Libre London purchases, right?
Eve Bar is next door to Frog by Adam Handling, and is the chef’s first venture into bars, expect to be wowed by the creative cocktails and gorgeous surroundings.
Vintage-inspired Blame Gloria is another fantastic haunt to grab a classic cosmo or a Collins, while those who love a view will adore the Radio Rooftop bar on top of the ME London hotel, which boast panoramic views of the city.
Wherever you decide to explore in Covent Garden, make sure you pay a visit to our Libre London pop-up store and say hello!