Spectacle, Sin and Uproar: A Self-Guided Tour of Covent Garden

London , United Kingdom

Spectacle, Sin and Uproar: A Self-Guided Tour of Covent Garden

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Covent Garden's history is woven into the very fabric of London's identity. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll discover the surprising origins of this world-famous district, uncovering a past filled with bustling markets, theatrical scandals, and revolutionary policing innovations that lie hidden beneath the touristy veneer.

You’ll explore the elegant piazza designed by Inigo Jones in the 1630s as London’s first formal square, and wander through the market building where fresh produce was traded for over 300 years. You’ll find out how the aristocratic vision for the area gave way quickly to a vibrant market culture that defined Covent Garden for centuries.

I’ll tell you how the area transformed from daytime marketplace to London’s most notorious red-light district after sunset, with taverns and brothels earning it the nickname the “Square of Venus.“ You’ll also hear stories about famous actors, writers, and musicians who lived and worked here, from Charles Dickens to Mozart.

Available options

Spectacle, Sin and Uproar: A Self-Guided Tour of Covent Garden

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

You’ll pass by St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden, often called the Actors’ Church for its long association with the theatre. Please note that entry to the church is not included in this tour.

Stop 2 Pass by

You’ll see the London Transport Museum, home to historic vehicles and exhibits tracing the city’s transport history. Please remember that admission to the museum is not included in this tour.

Stop 3 Pass by

You’ll catch a glimpse of the Royal Ballet and Opera, celebrated for world-class performances in the heart of Covent Garden. Please note that entry to the venue is not included in this tour.

Stop 4 Pass by

You’ll pass by the former Bow Street Magistrate’s Court, once central to London’s legal history and famous cases. Please note that entry to the building is not included in this tour.

Stop 5 Pass by

You’ll pass the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, one of London’s most historic theatres with a legacy dating back centuries. Please note that entry to the theatre is not included in this tour.

You’ll pass by Corpus Christi Catholic Church, a striking place of worship in Covent Garden. Please note that entry to the church is not included in this tour.

Stop 7 Pass by

You’ll see Rules, London’s oldest restaurant, renowned for its traditional British cuisine and historic charm. Please note that entry to the restaurant is not included in this tour.

You’ll pass the Adelphi Theatre, a renowned West End venue known for hosting popular musicals and plays. Please note that entry to the theatre is not included in this tour.

You’ll pass through Goodwin’s Court, a narrow historic alley famous for its colourful façades and hidden charm. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

Stop 10 Pass by

You’ll walk along Saint Martin’s Lane, known for its historic architecture and vibrant theatre connections. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

Stop 11 Pass by

You’ll pass by The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden, a historic pub famed for its literary and theatrical associations. Please note that entry to the pub is not included in this tour.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Covent Garden Station. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About London

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.

Top Attractions

Tower of London

A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.

Historical 2-3 hours £28 (adult ticket)

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.

Historical 1-2 hours £27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)

The British Museum

One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)

The London Eye

A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.

Entertainment 30 minutes £27-£33 (adult ticket)

Westminster Abbey

A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.

Religious 1-2 hours £27 (adult ticket)

Tower Bridge

An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.

Architecture 1-2 hours £11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).

Dinner Contains gluten and fish

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Afternoon Tea

A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.

Snack Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets

Sunday Roast

A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Rock climbing Kayaking on the Thames Cycling tours Afternoon tea Spas and wellness centers Punting on the River Cam Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center

By train

London Waterloo, London King's Cross

By bus

Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon

Getting around

Public transport

The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Westminster Camden Town Soho Notting Hill Shoreditch Greenwich

Day trips

Windsor Castle

34 km from London • Half day to full day

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.

Stonehenge

130 km from London • Full day

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.

Brighton

80 km from London • Full day

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Festivals

Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August London Film Festival • October New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31

Pro tips

Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets