Covent Garden Market

Covent Garden Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the charm of London’s vibrant market scene. Open every day of the year, the market features a combination of historical significance and modern-day charm. The market buildings are home to three key sections: The Apple Market, East Colonnade Market, and the Jubilee Market. Each one offers a unique experience and a range of items that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re an antique lover, a fan of handmade crafts, or just looking for a fun day out, Covent Garden has something special for you.

What to Expect

Walking through Covent Garden Market is like stepping into a lively world filled with history and charm. The market has been around for centuries, and while it’s no longer home to the bustling fruit and vegetable traders, it’s still a vibrant place filled with incredible finds. From handmade jewellery to vintage antiques, you’ll discover a variety of stalls offering something for everyone. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or just browsing for something unique, Covent Garden is the perfect place to do it.

Apple Market

The Apple Market, once known for its fruit and vegetable stalls, has evolved into one of the most popular parts of Covent Garden Market. It’s a place where handmade crafts and goods shine throughout the week. From Tuesday to Sunday, the market is filled with beautiful handmade jewellery, prints, watercolors, and other crafts that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a great spot to pick up a unique gift or treat yourself to something special.

But if you’re into antiques or collectables, don’t miss visiting on Monday. The Apple Market hosts one-off antique and collectable stalls, where you can find rare items that are perfect for collectors. It’s a great way to explore London’s rich history through unique pieces that tell a story.

Opening Hours:

• Sunday: 12:00 am to 6:00 pm

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

East Colonnade Market

The East Colonnade Market, located on the east side of Covent Garden’s Market Building, is another gem within this historic space. This section of the market is known for its variety of handmade goods, including soaps, sweet treats, and jewellery. Whether you’re looking for a new fragrance, a delicious snack, or a unique piece of jewellery to add to your collection, you’ll find it here. The atmosphere in the East Colonnade Market is always buzzing, making it a fun place to shop and explore.

Opening Hours:

• Sunday: 12:00 am to 6:00 pm

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Jubilee Market

The Jubilee Market, housed in the beautiful Jubilee Hall, adds yet another layer of history to Covent Garden. The building, which was constructed in 1904, has become a Grade 2 listed structure, and its restoration in 1985 brought it back to life as a thriving market. It was officially opened by the Queen in 1987, and today, it’s one of the most popular spots in Covent Garden.

The market operates with varied hours throughout the week. On weekends, it’s a great place to browse for gifts, vintage finds, and other interesting items. On Mondays, the market opens early, offering a variety of goods perfect for those looking to start their week with something new. If you’re visiting mid-week, you can enjoy the market’s extended hours, making it easy to stop by after work.

Opening Hours:

• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

• Monday: 5:00 am to 5:00 pm

• Tuesday to Friday: 10:30 am to 7:00 pm

Sellers Details

If you’ve ever wondered how to become a part of this incredible market, it’s easy! To become a stallholder at Covent Garden Market, all you need to do is fill out an application form and email it to helpdesk@coventgardenmarket.co.uk. Whether you’re an artisan or a collector, this is a great opportunity to showcase your goods in one of London’s most iconic locations.

Covent Garden Market is home to an eclectic mix of sellers. Some are local residents who have been part of the market scene for years, while others are seasonal vendors who bring new items each week. There’s also a good mix of regular traders who offer vintage and collectible items, as well as those who specialize in handmade goods. Many of the sellers at Covent Garden are passionate about what they do, and you’ll often find that they have interesting stories to tell about the items they sell. It’s not just about buying things—it’s about connecting with the people behind the goods.

One of the highlights is meeting the sellers who offer rare antiques, or those who specialize in handcrafted jewellery. Their stories and insights into the pieces they sell can add a personal touch to your visit. It’s always worth taking the time to chat with them and learn more about what makes their items unique.

Range of Goods

One of the things that make Covent Garden Market so unique is its range of goods. Every day, you’ll find different types of items available, depending on which section of the market you explore. From Tuesday to Sunday, the Apple Market is filled with beautiful handmade jewellery, prints, watercolours, and crafts. It’s a haven for anyone who loves unique and artistic items. If you visit on Monday, the Apple Market switches gears to offer antiques and collectables. This is where you can find rare items like vintage toys, one-of-a-kind furniture, and interesting knick-knacks that have a story to tell.

East Colonnade Market is another must-visit area. It’s known for handmade soaps, sweet treats, and lovely jewellery. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find the perfect gift for someone else, you’ll find it here. Jubilee Market, on the other hand, is where you can discover vintage finds, handmade goods, and a lot more. It’s a place where each stall offers something different, and you never know what you might find next.

Specialties & Local Finds

Covent Garden Market isn’t just a place to shop for random goods—it’s a place to discover local specialties. From handcrafted items like soaps and candles to locally produced foods like jams and chocolates, the market is a great place to experience some of the best products that London has to offer. You’ll often find unique pieces made by local artisans that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. There’s something really special about supporting small businesses and local talent, and Covent Garden does an excellent job of showcasing this.

Vendor Variety

The variety of vendors at Covent Garden Market is another one of its standout features. You won’t find just one type of stall, but a wide range of offerings. From handmade crafts and vintage fashion to rare books and upcycled furniture, the market has it all. Each vendor brings something unique to the table, and this diversity creates a fun, vibrant atmosphere that draws people in. Whether you’re in the mood for browsing through beautiful art or hunting for a hidden antique treasure, you’ll find a little bit of everything here.

Community Vibe

Covent Garden Market has a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that makes it stand out. You’ll often see regulars who come back week after week, chatting with vendors and exploring the stalls. Whether you’re new to the market or a frequent visitor, you’ll feel like part of the community. It’s a place where people of all backgrounds and ages come together to enjoy shopping and connect with one another. Families, collectors, students, and tourists all mingle here, and everyone is made to feel welcome.

The sense of familiarity that regulars bring to the market is part of what makes Covent Garden so special. There’s a friendly energy in the air, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with someone who shares your interest in antiques or handmade crafts. The market has a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes it a joy to visit.

Entertainment

While Covent Garden Market is already a treat for the eyes, the entertainment adds an extra layer of fun. You’ll often find street performers, musicians, or even local bands playing, creating a lively atmosphere. It’s not just about shopping—it’s about enjoying the experience. If you’re visiting with kids, there are often activities or food trucks that make the market even more exciting. The entertainment makes the market feel like a festival, adding to the overall charm of the place.

Nearby Amenities

When you’ve finished browsing the stalls, Covent Garden Market has plenty of nearby amenities where you can relax. There are cafes and restaurants within walking distance where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for something casual or looking for a sit-down meal, you’ll find a variety of options nearby. There are also shops and green spaces where you can unwind and enjoy the surroundings after a busy day at the market.

Parking & Accessibility

If you’re driving to Covent Garden, you’ll be happy to know that there’s parking available around the market. While it can get busy, there’s usually enough space for both vendors and visitors. The market is also very accessible, with paths that are easy to navigate. Families and elderly visitors can move around comfortably, and those with disabilities can easily enjoy the market too. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or driving, getting to Covent Garden is straightforward.

Why Covent Garden Market Stands Out

What makes Covent Garden Market stand out is its relaxed atmosphere and the variety of goods it offers. It’s not just about buying things—it’s about the whole experience. The market has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for handmade jewellery, vintage antiques, or sweet treats. The diversity of vendors, the community vibe, and the entertainment all come together to create a unique shopping experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Comparison with Other Markets

When compared to other markets in London, Covent Garden stands out for its mix of old-world charm and modern-day creativity. While some markets focus on food or fashion, Covent Garden offers a wonderful blend of arts, crafts, antiques, and much more. The variety of goods and the welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a day out in London.

Proximity to Local Attractions

Another reason Covent Garden Market is so popular is its proximity to other famous attractions in London. You can easily combine your visit to the market with a trip to nearby landmarks like the Royal Opera House or the National Gallery. The market is perfectly located for those looking to make a day of it, combining shopping with sightseeing or a leisurely stroll through the nearby areas.

Special Events or Seasonal Information

Throughout the year, Covent Garden Market hosts a range of special events. From themed weekends to holiday sales, there’s always something exciting happening. During the holiday season, the market becomes even more festive with extended hours and seasonal sales. Whether it’s summer fairs or Christmas markets, the special events at Covent Garden add to the excitement and make it a must-visit destination throughout the year.

Themed or Holiday Markets

During the holidays, Covent Garden Market transforms into a winter wonderland with special themed sales. You can find unique gifts for Christmas, Easter, or Halloween, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. These themed markets attract people from all over, making it a perfect time to shop for something special or simply enjoy the seasonal celebrations.

Covent Garden Market is not just a place to shop—it’s an experience. With its unique blend of history, crafts, antiques, and friendly atmosphere, it stands out as one of London’s best markets. Whether you’re looking for something specific or just want to explore, Covent Garden is a destination you won’t want to miss.