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A mini guide to
Tips & FAQs
Local know-how to make the most of your visit
Local know-how
Six tips for visiting
Go early
Covent Garden Piazza and Neal's Yard are at their best before about 10:30am, before the crowds arrive.
Mind the Tube
Covent Garden station is very busy. On weekends it can be quicker to exit at Leicester Square, Holborn or Tottenham Court Road.
Book your pre-theatre table
Reserve a table for show days, and tell the restaurant when your curtain goes up.
Use the ticket booth
The Official London Theatre ticket booth on Leicester Square (formerly TKTS) sells on-the-day and advance tickets, some discounted. Same-day tickets are also sold on officiallondontheatre.com.
Watch your belongings
Busy areas attract pickpockets, so keep bags zipped and phones out of back pockets.
Keep to the main streets late at night
The area is busy and lit, but late-night crowds can be rowdy. Use main streets and licensed taxis.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly are Soho and Covent Garden?
They sit side by side in the West End of central London. Covent Garden lies east of Charing Cross Road, around the old market piazza, and Soho lies to the west, between Oxford Street and Shaftesbury Avenue.
How long do I need here?
Half a day covers the highlights, and two days lets you add the theatre, a long meal and some shopping. Many visitors come back for a different evening show.
Is it a good area for a first visit to London?
Yes. It is central, walkable, full of restaurants and theatres, and well connected by several Tube lines, which makes it easy to explore the rest of the city.
Is Soho safe?
Soho is busy and well lit, with a lot of people around at all hours. Take normal city precautions, keep belongings secure and stay on main streets late at night.
Is Soho still the "red-light district"?
Soho was historically associated with nightlife and adult entertainment. Today it is mostly restaurants, bars, theatres, creative businesses and shops, with a small number of older venues remaining.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, particularly during the day. Covent Garden has street performers and the London Transport Museum, and many West End theatres host family shows. Some Soho venues are better visited without young children after dark.
Is it expensive?
It can be, as central London prices apply. But there are good-value options, including market food, pre-theatre menus, free street performers and discounted same-day theatre tickets.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring and early autumn bring pleasant weather and fewer crowds. December is magical for lights and festive markets but busier. Summer is lively, with outdoor seating everywhere.
Where should I eat before the theatre?
Many restaurants offer pre-theatre menus between about 5pm and 7pm. Look on side streets around Seven Dials, Chinatown and Soho for good value.
Which station should I use?
Covent Garden is closest to the piazza but very busy. Leicester Square, Tottenham Court Road and Holborn are good alternatives within a short walk.
Can I walk to other major sights?
Yes. Trafalgar Square is about 10 minutes away, the British Museum about 15, and the South Bank about 20 minutes across Waterloo Bridge.
Are the theatres here wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies, particularly in historic buildings. Contact the theatre's box office in advance to confirm the facilities you need.
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