Seven Dials – A Star-Shaped Gem in the Heart of London
Just a few steps from the bustling Covent Garden piazza, you’ll discover Seven Dials, a unique star-shaped junction where seven streets meet. This historic London neighbourhood was laid out in the late 17th century by MP Thomas Neale to maximise land plots, with the plan also reviewed by Sir Christopher Wren. Even today, the radial street layout remains intact, making Seven Dials one of the most distinctive places to visit in Covent Garden.
The Seven Streets of Seven Dials
Seven streets radiate from the central point: Earlham Street, Mercer Street, Monmouth Street, Shorts Gardens, Neal Street and Shelton Street. Earlham Street splits into two, creating the seventh line. Many of the street names reflect London’s history, such as Monmouth Street, named after the Duke of Monmouth. The charming façades and original layout give the area its timeless character, even as names and shops have changed over the centuries.
The Sundial Pillar – London’s Historic Timekeeper
At the centre of Seven Dials stands the Sundial Pillar, an elegant column designed by Edward Pierce in 1694. It features six sundials facing different directions, with the column itself serving as the seventh. Removed in the late 1700s, the monument was reinstated in 1989 by the Seven Dials Trust and is today a striking landmark for visitors exploring Covent Garden.
Seven Dials Market – Covent Garden’s Indoor Food Hall
Housed in the former Thomas Neal’s Warehouse, Seven Dials Market has transformed from a banana storage depot into one of London’s most exciting indoor food halls. Dozens of independent restaurants, cafés and bars serve global flavours and eye-catching street food.
The market is split into two areas: Banana Warehouse, focusing on hot dishes and street-food-style stalls, and Cucumber Alley, specialising in desserts, drinks and sweet treats. For foodies, this is one of the must-visit places near Covent Garden. If you’re into burgers, one of London’s favourite burger place, Bleecker Burger has a location at the market.
Cambridge Theatre and West End Magic
Seven Dials is also a cultural hub. On Monmouth Street, the Cambridge Theatre is a 1930s Art Deco landmark and home to the award-winning Matilda the Musical, which has been running here since 2011. This West End favourite, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, continues to draw audiences of all ages.
Nearby, you’ll also find smaller theatres and comedy venues such as Donmar Warehouse, renowned for intimate, high-quality productions, and Theatre Deli, which brings contemporary and experimental theatre to the area.
Independent Shops and Local Treasures
One of the best things to do in Seven Dials is explore its independent boutiques. From small fashion stores and jewellery studios to stationery shops and vintage finds, the neighbourhood is a paradise for shoppers. Highlights include Dover Street Market Little Market, Annie’s Vintage, and Tatty Devine, known for bold, graphic jewellery.
For a break, stop at The Crown, a traditional British pub that has been serving locals for over 100 years. With its wood-panelled interiors and real ales, it’s a classic London experience.
Neal’s Yard – A Colourful Covent Garden Courtyard
Tucked just off Seven Dials lies Neal’s Yard, a small but iconic courtyard famous for its brightly painted buildings and bohemian atmosphere. In the 1970s, Nicholas Saunders transformed the neglected warehouses into a hub for alternative living, leading to the creation of Monmouth Coffee Company, Neal’s Yard Dairy and Neal’s Yard Remedies, now a global leader in natural skincare.
The Monty Python team also had their production office here, adding to the creative spirit that still defines Neal’s Yard today. With its cafés, artisan shops and photogenic backdrop, it’s one of Covent Garden’s most Instagrammable spots. When you leave Neal's Yar, you’ll find a striking mural of Princess Diana by street artist BAMBI with the caption: “You can be as naughty as you want.”
A Revitalised Neighbourhood
After careful restoration in the late 20th century, led by the Seven Dials Trust, the area has flourished with limited traffic, cultural venues and lively public spaces.
Today, Seven Dials London blends history, design, food, theatre and community. Offering a calmer contrast to Covent Garden’s piazza, it’s a must-see destination for anyone exploring London’s West End.
