Theatre Wanderings Through Covent Garden

One of a series of free walks from the Westminster Guides supported by Inside Out to celebrate open-air arts and culture in Westminster!
About this Event

Enjoy the stunning architecture of the theatres of Covent Garden, discover their history, and preview shows currently at these world-famous venues.

Please meet at the Covent Garden underground station James Street exit (WC2E 9JT). Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start time. The tour will finish next to St Paul’s Church (WC2E 9ED).

London’s West End is home to 38 theatres and attracts over fifteen million theatregoers each year. Covent Garden is home to more than half of these theatres and for centuries has been a world-famous cultural centre. No other urban quarter in the world is home to two esteemed artistic companies – The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet.

The tour explains the origins of Theatre in Covent Garden and highlights ten theatres on a one and a half mile walking route through the streets and lanes including the narrowest passageway in town. The tour includes world famous hotels, restaurants, and retailers, and concludes at St Paul’s the actor’s church that has been at the heart of Covent Garden for more than three hundred years.

The tour highlights a selection of memorable performances at these theatres, and provides a preview of the shows currently on stage.

Some Practical Details:

Please dress for the weather, with light, breathable attire, a hat, sunglasses, fan, and sunscreen in the case of hot weather and an umbrella and rainwear should the weather be inclement. Wear sensible shoes or sandals and carry a bottle of water with you.

All walks are led by trained City of Westminster Guides who love to share their knowledge of the borough with residents and visitors. Please respect their time and efforts by cancelling your place should you not be able to attend to allow someone else to join.