Getting to Covent Garden
Your guide to visiting Covent Garden by foot, tube, bike, bus, taxi, car, boat, or plane.
Covent Garden is a vibrant and cosmopolitan area of London, home to the best food, drink, and entertainment. As London is a prominent place, we have put together a few instructions on how to get there, whether by underground, bus, bicycle, taxi or even by boat!
On Foot
Covent Garden is highly accessible and easily reached on foot from many major landmarks. Scenic routes from Leicester Square (minutes away), the Strand (past Somerset House), or the South Bank (via Waterloo Bridge) offer great views.
Follow signs from Leicester Square station, or enjoy riverside views walking from the South Bank past the London Eye.
By Underground (Tube)
Easily accessible via several stations. The closest are Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line - often busy, consider alternatives), Leicester Square (Piccadilly & Northern Lines), and Holborn (Piccadilly & Central Lines).
The Piccadilly Line offers direct access from Heathrow Airport.
By Bicycle
Explore London by bike! Use routes like Cycle Superhighway 3 or bike rental schemes (Santander Cycles, Lime). Secure cycle parking is available on-street and in dedicated areas.
Cycling offers fitness benefits, reduced emissions, and a unique city perspective. For more info, visit the TfL Cycling website.
By Bus
Numerous bus routes serve Covent Garden. Popular routes stopping nearby include the 9, 13, 15, 23, 139, and 153. Other routes connect the area to wider London.
Use contactless payment or an Oyster card to benefit from the Hopper fare (unlimited bus/tram journeys within one hour for one fare). For routes and info, visit the TfL Buses website.
By Taxi / Ride Share
A convenient option, especially with luggage. Hail traditional Black Cabs (regulated, accept contactless payments) or book via ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt.
For Black Cab info and bookings, visit the TfL Taxis website.
By Car
Covent Garden is accessible by car, but be aware of heavy traffic and limited parking (e.g., Covent Garden Car Park off Drury Lane). Use GPS for navigation.
The area is within the Congestion Charge zone (daily fee Mon-Fri, 7am-10pm). Consider public transport as a more practical and cost-effective alternative.
By Boat
Enjoy a scenic journey via the River Thames. Take a fast Thames Clipper river bus (operated by TfL) to Embankment Pier, a short walk away. Services run frequently.
Leisurely river cruises offer stunning views. Private boat hire or kayak tours provide unique experiences. For river travel info, visit the TfL River website.
By Plane (From Airports)
Fly into Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), or Luton (LTN).
- From Heathrow: Direct Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden or Heathrow Express to Paddington then Tube.
- From Gatwick: Gatwick Express to Victoria, then Tube (Victoria Line + change/walk).
- From Stansted/Luton: Train or coach to Central London, then Tube.
- Alternative: Taxi or private transfer (more expensive but direct).
Remember to stay safe when navigating London. Ask police officers for directions if needed.