Retail Therapy : Covent Garden’s Top 10 Shopping Spots

Covent Garden isn’t just about sights and shows; it’s a shopper’s paradise too! But where to head when you’ve got the family in tow? Here are some top spots that offer something for everyone, from unique toys to delicious treats and quirky souvenirs.

Covent Garden Shopping – Family Finds

Shop Name	Location	Price Guide	What to look for (Family/Kid Appeal)	Website (if available)
The Tintin Shop	34 Floral St WC2	Mid-range	Comics, figurines, collectibles for Tintin fans of all ages.	www.thetintinshop.uk.com
Whisky Exchange	2 Bedford St WC2E	Mid to Premium	Primarily adult; older teens might find “fill your own bottle” interesting. Brief visit.	www.thewhiskyexchange.com
Neal’s Yard Remedies	15 Neal’s Yard WC2H	Mid-range	Organic Mother & Baby collection, natural toiletries.	www.nealsyardremedies.com
Stanfords	7 Mercer Walk WC2	Varies	Amazing children’s travel/map/globe section, educational games. Coffee shop on site.	www.stanfords.co.uk
St Martin’s Courtyard	Long Acre WC2	Varies	Pedestrianised area with diverse shops & restaurants (e.g., family-friendly Bill’s).	theyardscoventgarden.co.uk
Pylones	15 The Market WC2E	Affordable/Mid	Kooky, colourful accessories & household goods. Great for fun gifts for kids & adults.	www.pylones.com
Penhaligon’s	41 Wellington St WC2E / Market Bldg	Premium	Luxury adult fragrances/gifts. Scent environment might be strong for young kids.	www.penhaligons.com
BOW WOW London	36 Earlham St WC2H	Mid to High-End	Designer dog products, natural food. Fun for dog-loving families.	bowwowlondon.com /.org
~~The Tea House~~	~~15a Neal St WC2~~	~~Varies~~	~~(Likely closed/changed. Was good for diverse teas & novelty teapots). Seek alternatives.~~	N/A
Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop	44 The Market WC2E	Mid-range	Traditional paper theatres, puppets, musical boxes, theatrical gifts. Classic toy shop experience.	www.pollocks-coventgarden.co.uk

The Tintin Shop: Adventure Awaits!

For fans of Hergé’s intrepid boy reporter, The Tintin Shop at 34 Floral Street, WC2, is an absolute must-visit. This charming specialty store is a treasure trove packed with everything Tintin imaginable. You’ll find the classic comic books, a wide array of collectible figurines of Tintin, Snowy, Captain Haddock and the whole gang, plus posters, clothing, keyrings, and even limited-edition models.  

Opening Hours: There’s a slight discrepancy in the information found. One source suggests Wednesday to Saturday 11 am to 4 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 4 pm (closed Monday and Tuesday). Another indicates Monday to Saturday 11 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm. Given this, it’s definitely wise to check their official website (www.thetintinshop.uk.com) for the most current opening times before you make a special trip.  

Price Range: Prices will vary from affordable postcards and keychains to more expensive rare collectibles, so there’s likely something to suit different budgets.  

Family Appeal: This shop has enormous appeal for families, especially if there are Tintin enthusiasts in your group, young or old. For parents who grew up with the books, it’s a wonderful trip down memory lane, and for children discovering Tintin for the first time, it’s an exciting introduction to his world of adventure. It’s a fantastic place to find unique gifts and souvenirs that are a bit different from the usual tourist fare. The very existence of a shop dedicated to a single comic character speaks to a passionate fanbase, making this a special destination for those in the know.

Website: www.thetintinshop.uk.com  

Whisky Exchange: A Spirited Detour (Mainly for Grown-Ups)

Located at 2 Bedford Street, WC2E, The Whisky Exchange is a specialist store with two floors impressively stocked with spirits from all over the globe. While whisky is a major focus, particularly Scotch Single Malts and rare bottlings found in their “Whisky Cellar,” they also offer a vast selection of gin, tequila, rum, Champagne, and fine wines. A unique feature is the option to fill your own bottle straight from the cask.  

Opening Hours: Their official website states Monday to Wednesday 11 am to 6 pm, Thursday to Saturday 11 am to 7 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 6 pm. (Another source, ScotchWhisky.com, listed slightly longer weekday/Saturday hours , but it’s always best to go with the official site).  

Price Range: They aim to offer an “unmatched range for all budgets”. While some rare bottles will be very expensive, you can find items like Mare Gin for around £43.75. They also offer in-store tasting experiences: a “Tasting Flight” of 3 spirit samples starts from £25 per person, and more formal “Private Tastings” from £40 per person.  

Family Appeal: This is primarily an adult destination. While children aren’t explicitly barred, the environment and products are geared towards enthusiasts and connoisseurs. However, if parents have a keen interest, older teenagers might find the “fill your own bottle” concept or the sheer variety of spirits intriguing for a very brief look. It’s not a place where young children will find much to entertain them. For a family blog, the advice would be: perhaps one parent pops in while the other is with younger kids nearby, or it’s a very quick visit if an older teen has a genuine interest in the craft or distillation process.

Website: www.thewhiskyexchange.com  

Neal’s Yard Remedies: Naturally Good for Families

You’ll find the iconic blue bottles of Neal’s Yard Remedies in their shop at 15 Neal’s Yard, WC2H (though the Yard itself is their spiritual home, the main shop is often cited as being on Neal Street or in the Yard). They’ve been championing natural and organic health and beauty for over 30 years and offer the UK’s largest range of certified organic products.  

Opening Hours: According to their official site, they are open Monday to Friday 10 am to 8 pm, Saturday 10 am to 7:30 pm, and Sunday 10:30 am to 7 pm. (Coventgarden.london listed slightly shorter hours , so stick with the official source).  

Products & Price Range: They stock a wide array of remedies, toiletries, makeup, skincare, bath & body products, wellbeing items, and gifts. For families, their “Organic Mother & Baby Collection” is a real highlight. Prices for this range include items like Organic Baby Balm (50g) for £14.00, Mother’s Balm (180g) for £27.00, and Baby Bath & Shampoo (200ml) for £12.00. This shows a clear commitment to providing gentle, natural options for the most delicate skin.  

Family Appeal: This shop is excellent for families looking for natural, ethical, and organic products. The dedicated Mother & Baby range is a significant draw for parents with young children or those expecting. Items like the Baby Pillow Mist could make lovely, gentle gifts. The company’s commitment to high environmental and welfare standards also resonates with many families.  

Practicalities: The store offers water refills and product refills for certain items if you bring back the original bottle, which is a nice sustainable touch.  

Website: www.nealsyardremedies.com  

Stanfords: Mapping Out Adventures for All Ages

Stanfords, now located at 7 Mercer Walk, WC2 (having moved from their historic Long Acre address), is the UK’s leading specialist retailer of maps, travel books, and all sorts of travel accessories. Established in 1853, it’s a legendary store for both armchair travellers and seasoned explorers.  

Opening Hours: You can visit Monday to Wednesday from 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday and Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm.  

Products & Price Range: Alongside an unparalleled selection of travel guides and maps for every corner of the globe, Stanfords boasts a fantastic children’s section. Here, you’ll find children’s maps and atlases, educational globes, travel-themed books covering natural history and astronomy, plus fun educational games and jigsaws. Prices vary: children’s books like “Oh, Carrots!” are around £12.99, travel games like “Mapominoes Europe” are £13.99, and an “Anti-Stress Globe” is just £4.99. There’s also a coffee shop on site, the “Stanfords Coffee House,” which is great for a break during your browsing.  

Family Appeal: Stanfords is brilliant for inspiring wanderlust in the whole family. The dedicated children’s section is a huge plus, offering engaging and educational ways for kids to learn about the world. It’s the perfect place to pick up a map for your London adventures or a book to read on the plane. The coffee shop makes it a comfortable place to spend some time planning your next family trip or just enjoying the travel-focused atmosphere. This combination of being a serious travel resource while also offering engaging content for children makes it a unique and valuable stop.

Website: www.stanfords.co.uk  

St Martin’s Courtyard & The Yards: A Stylish Urban Village

St Martin’s Courtyard, accessible from Long Acre (WC2), is described as one of London’s newer shopping and dining destinations. It’s part of a larger area often referred to as “The Yards,” which also includes Slingsby Place and Mercer Walk. This area aims for a stylish yet charming “urban village” feel, with appealing alfresco tables and a mix of top-name and independent stores.  

Shops & Restaurants: This isn’t a single shop but a complex. You’ll find a diverse range of retailers, including fashion brands like Lululemon, Hobbs, Whistles, and Reiss; beauty stores such as Bloom Perfumery and Space NK; lifestyle shops like The White Company; and outdoor specialists including Jack Wolfskin, Salomon, Rohan, and Snow + Rock. For dining, family-friendly options like Bill’s Restaurant & Bar (known for its kids’ menu and casual atmosphere) can be found here. The directory on The Yards website (theyardscoventgarden.co.uk) lists many more.  

Family Appeal: The variety of shops means there might be something to interest different family members. The pedestrianised courtyard areas can offer a more relaxed shopping environment than busy main streets. The presence of family-friendly restaurant chains like Bill’s is a definite plus. It’s a good place to wander, browse, and grab a meal.  

Practicalities: As a modern development, accessibility is generally good. Bill’s, for example, has wheelchair access and is dog-friendly. Public facilities like toilets and baby changing would likely be available within some of the larger stores or restaurant buildings within the complex, but it’s always worth checking specific venues. The “urban village” concept aims to create a pleasant, mixed-use environment which can be less overwhelming for families than traditional, crowded high streets.  

Website: For The Yards, which encompasses St Martin’s Courtyard: theyardscoventgarden.co.uk.  

Pylones: Kooky, Colourful, and Kid-Friendly!

Pylones, located at 15 The Market, WC2E (within the main Covent Garden Market building), is a French store that’s an absolute riot of colour and fun. They are known for their “kooky collection” of eye-catching accessories and household goods. Think everyday objects reinvented with a funky spirit and playful designs.  

Opening Hours: While specific Pylones Covent Garden hours weren’t in the direct snippets, shops within the Covent Garden Market building generally operate from around 10 am to 7 pm or 8 pm (Mon-Sat) and 10 am to 6 pm or 7 pm (Sun). It would be best to confirm their exact hours if making a special trip.  

Products & Price Range: Pylones offers a huge variety of items: kitchen utensils, home décor, fashion accessories (like umbrellas and bags), children’s items (watches, rattles, backpacks, piggy banks), jewellery, and much more. Prices aren’t specified but are likely in the affordable to mid-range for gift items and novelty goods.  

Family Appeal: This shop is a guaranteed hit with children and any adults who appreciate a bit of whimsy! The bright colours, playful animal shapes, and imaginative designs on everyday items are inherently child-friendly. It’s an ideal spot for picking up unusual gifts, fun souvenirs, or just enjoying a browse through a store that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The design philosophy is all about joy and originality, which resonates strongly with families.

Website: www.pylones.com  

Penhaligon’s: A Whiff of Luxury (Maybe for the Grown-Ups)

Penhaligon’s is an eccentric and historic British perfumery, with a presence in Covent Garden at 41 Wellington Street, WC2E, and also at 13 The Market Building. They’ve been in the business of creating fine fragrances since the 1870s and offer a glorious range for both men and women, alongside accessories and elegant luxury candles that make lovely gifts.  

Opening Hours (Market Building store): Monday to Saturday 10 am to 7 pm, and Sunday 12 pm to 6 pm. (The Wellington Street store hours might differ).  

Products & Price Range: This is a luxury brand, so expect premium pricing for their fine fragrances, aftershaves, candles, and gift sets. Specific price points for typical items weren’t available in the snippets , but it’s definitely high-end.  

Family Appeal: Penhaligon’s is primarily an adult luxury brand. The sophisticated fragrances and refined atmosphere are geared towards a discerning clientele. For families, its relevance is more likely to be for purchasing a special gift for an adult. The scent environment in a perfumery can sometimes be quite intense, which might be overwhelming for very young children or those with sensitivities. It’s not a typical stop for a family shopping spree with little ones in tow, but it represents the high-end retail side of Covent Garden.

Website: www.penhaligons.com

BOW WOW London: For the Pampered Pooch in Your Life!

Dog lovers, rejoice! BOW WOW London, now at 36 Earlham Street, WC2H (relocated from 50A Earlham St), is a boutique dedicated to the most dapper dogs about town. They stock a gorgeous collection of the finest designer dog products, handpicked from across the globe, alongside a commitment to quality, natural, wholesome, and ethical food products. They also offer professional dog grooming services with a focus on Asian styling.  

Opening Hours: The boutique is open Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. The grooming salon operates Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm.  

Products & Price Range: Expect mid-to-high-end prices for “finest designer dog products”. While specific prices for items like collars, toys, or treats weren’t in the snippets , the emphasis is on quality and design.  

Family Appeal: This is a must-visit for families who adore their canine companions or for those looking to buy a special treat for a furry friend back home. Even if you don’t have a dog, the “dapper dog” accessories and the general atmosphere of a luxury pet boutique can be quite fun to see. It’s a welcoming place, and the focus on a dog’s health and happiness will resonate with pet-owning families. The trend of “pet humanization” means many families are happy to invest in high-quality items for their dogs, making a boutique like this a delightful discovery in a high-traffic area like Covent Garden.  

Website: bowwowlondon.com

The Tea House: A Covent Garden Brew? (An Update)

The DK Eyewitness guide paints a lovely picture of The Tea House at 15a Neal Street, WC2, describing it as a place with over a hundred teas, from Moroccan Minty to Mango & Maracuja, plus novelty teapots and books on tea-making.  

Important Update for Tea Lovers: Finding current, definitive information about a physical Tea House at 15a Neal Street has been a bit of a brew-haha!

• An unofficial Covent Garden website from a few years back did confirm The Tea House at 15a Neal St, with hours Mon-Sat 10 am-7 pm, Sun 12 pm-6 pm, selling around seventy leaf teas and “Teaphernalia” including novelty teapots.  
• However, a stock photo from Alamy dated January 2023 shows a “closed down Tea shop in Covent Garden” with a similar sounding name (“The Teahouse”) and a distinctive red and black exterior in the Seven Dials area.  
• UK company information for “THE TEA HOUSE (COVENT GARDEN) LIMITED” (Company No. 07463859) lists 15a Neal Street as its correspondence address, but the directors resigned in 2021 and 2022.  
• The website theteahouseltd.com describes itself as “Tea Pioneers Since 1982” (the original Tea House was also founded around then), sells over 200 teas online, ships worldwide, and has a contact number based in Somerset (01935 area code). It mentions “our store” but provides no London address.  
• Other mentions of “The Tea House” in Covent Garden refer to different establishments, like Bread Ahead’s tea room or a tea merchant in Covent Garden Market, London, Ontario, Canada.  

Conclusion for Your Visit: It appears the specific Tea House at 15a Neal Street, as described in the guidebook, is likely closed or has significantly changed its operation (perhaps to online-only for the original Covent Garden entity, or the premises may now house a different business).

Family-Friendly Tea Alternatives in Covent Garden: Don’t fret, tea-loving families! Covent Garden still has lovely spots for a cuppa. Consider exploring:

• Mariage Frères for a very refined French tea experience.  
• Whittard of Chelsea for a wide selection of teas and accessories.  
• Many of the cafés and restaurants listed elsewhere in this guide will offer a good selection of teas, including herbal and fruit infusions that children might enjoy.

This situation is a perfect example of how quickly the retail landscape can change in a busy city like London, and why it’s always good to have up-to-date info!

Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop: A Portal to Theatrical Play

A true Covent Garden institution, Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop, located at 44 The Market (in the Market Building), WC2E, is the place to go for theatrical gifts and enchanting traditional toys. This isn’t your average modern toy store; it specializes in items that spark imagination and storytelling, particularly their famous paper toy theatres.  

Opening Hours: You can step into this magical world Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm, and on Sundays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. (One source mentioned slightly different Thursday-Saturday hours , but the times from their official site are most reliable).  

Toys & Treasures: The shop is renowned for its beautiful paper theatres, with various models and plays available, often inspired by classic pantomimes, fairy tales, or Shakespeare. Beyond these, you’ll find other traditional toys like puppets and musical boxes, alongside crafts, DIY kits, and gifts perfect for theatre lovers or anyone who appreciates classic play. They focus on creative, educational, and theatrical toys that encourage “real play”.  

Price Range: The paper theatres, a signature item, range from around £25.00 to £45.00. This gives an idea of the pricing for their specialty items.  

Family Appeal: Benjamin Pollock’s Toyshop is enduringly popular with both visitors and Londoners, appealing to “discerning adults and children alike”. It’s one of Joanna Lumley’s favourite shops in London!. For families, it offers a wonderful antidote to screen time, with toys that foster creativity, imagination, and storytelling. Many customers remember the toys from their own childhood and return to buy for the next generation, giving it a lovely nostalgic quality. The shop itself, often described as “crammed from floor to ceiling” , is an experience – a classic toy shop that feels like stepping back in time.

Website: www.pollocks-coventgarden.co.uk