Piazza, The - Sightseeing, Areas & Squares

Piazza, The

he name Covent Garden dates back to when the area belonged to Westminster Abbey and was a Convent Garden. For many years it was London's Wholesale Fruit and Veg' market.

In 1974 the market was moved to Nine Elmes in southwest London and in 1980 the Covent Garden site was turned into a leisure area featuring novelty shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs.

Now certainly one of London's top tourist attractions, Covent Garden continues to hold daily markets and craft fairs. Goods on sale include antiques, arts and crafts, novelties, food, clothes and bric-a-brac.

The buildings are lucky to have survived, as the original plan was to knock it down and build a Barbican style complex on the site.

There are numerous restaurants and pubs to sample. A favourite pub is the 'Punch & Judy', which is said to be on the site of the world's first Punch & Judy show.

You will also find many buskers and street entertainers here, providing local colour and making Covent Garden a great place to go for lunch or dinner. Bring plenty of money though!

Nearest Underground (Tube) Station: Covent Garden