Covent Garden is a truly magical place : hip delicously diverse and unashamedly British. As you wind your way through small narrow streets you'll pass by smart pavements cafes, buskers street performers even fire eaters and of course hordes of teaming tourists who spill into the main forecourt of the Piazza: an enormous square that runs from East to West.
Several small picture galleries , artist studios and wharehouses line the tiny cobbled streets while a maze of connecting alleyways and hidden mews reveal a treasure trove of edgy clothing boutiques eccentric gift stores and discreet beauty parlours.
Home to some of london's finest music bars whether it's Jazz or Glam rock you're bound to find your groove here! Covent Garden has hosted some of the biggest names in world class entertainment and been the strating point for some of the freshest new sounds around. Popular with tourists and music afficandos alike be sure to catch a live gig and soak up the atmosphere midweek onwards anytime after dusk.
If its food that tickles your tastebuds it's all right here food to suite every palette and every budget. Upscale eateries sit along side gourment pubs, and the best in ice cream parlours simple delis and home style diners. So whether you're star spotting at The Ivy or tucking into a traditional fry up at the Italian cafe in Shaftesbury Avenue you 'll be spoilt for choice for something to munch on.
One of the most charming curiosities around is nestled in the South East Quarter of the area The Puppet/ Toy Museum housing some of the most delightful children's toys filled with marionettes, victorian paper dolls wooden rocking horses and kalidescopes. All of these lovely treats are available to buy and view . The min fun fair located at the back of the Mezzanine complete with Junior Carousel , hot popcorn and striped candy canes make this a doubly enchanting place for children and grown ups to visit.
From weekdays right through to the weekend there are always dozens of different types of attractions for people to get involved with and if it is a particular time of year like Easter or Christmas there tend to be special events for families to participate in like a grand treasure hunt or Christmas festival. Sometimes to mark certain celebrations there may be a free street festival or party in the central square which is invariably lots of fun with extra entertainment for the occasion.
There is so much to see and do in Covent Garden with its wonderful architecture, historic landmarks and rich cultural heritage ( The Royal Opera House, the Royal Ballet art cinemas and theatres are all located here) it remains a truly irresistible place to while away those long summer days and balmy summer nights.