Covent Garden Tour; ghosts and theaters with tarot cards at the end

Covent Garden Tour; ghosts and theaters with tarot cards at the end

Imagine wandering through London’s lively theater district, but with a twist — uncovering its ghostly tales and secret societies along the way. This 2-hour walk, led by an expert guide (who speaks Italian), takes you through Covent Garden’s historic streets, revealing hidden stories behind iconic landmarks like the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the Freemasons’ Hall. The tour culminates with a personal tarot card reading, adding a mysterious and reflective finish to your journey.

We love how this experience combines history and superstition, offering a mix of entertainment and intriguing insights into London’s Victorian past. The storytelling is lively and well-informed, and the final tarot session provides a personal, memorable touch. Plus, wandering in such a historic neighborhood allows us to soak up the authentic atmosphere of old London, away from the typical tourist crowds.

A potential drawback might be that the tour is entirely on foot, so comfortable shoes are essential — and weather can be unpredictable. It’s a walk that suits those curious about London’s darker side, history buffs, or anyone interested in the supernatural and secret societies. If you’re after a lively, educational, and slightly eerie experience, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Historical depth: Learn about Covent Garden’s lively past and haunted theaters.
• Unique stories: Discover the connection between Freud and spiritualism and hear about ghostly characters.
• Interactive experience: Draw a tarot card to gain insight into yourself.
• Expert storytelling: Guides are knowledgeable and bring London’s secrets to life.
• Accessible and flexible: Tour starts outside Abuelo café, with free cancellation available.
• Authentic London: Visit iconic landmarks and a historic esoteric bookshop, Watkins Books.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Walking Through Covent Garden’s Haunted Heart

This tour offers a fascinating look at a part of London that many travelers only see on the surface. Covent Garden, now famous for its street performers, markets, and lively restaurants, once echoed with stories of secret societies, theatrical spirits, and Victorian mysticism. Walking through its narrow streets and historic theaters, we found ourselves immersed in stories that blend history with a touch of the supernatural.

The Starting Point: Abuelo Café and Covent Garden Piazza

The adventure begins outside Abuelo, a friendly café at 26 Southampton Street, where our guide (whose warmth and knowledge immediately set a comfortable tone) greets us. From here, we step into the buzzing heart of Covent Garden, where the sights and sounds of street performers and market stalls create a lively backdrop.

We’re immediately introduced to the idea that beneath this vibrant surface lurk stories of ghosts and secret societies. The guide shares anecdotes about the area’s past as a marketplace full of characters, voices, and secrets — stories that continue to whisper through the streets.

The Haunted Theatre: Royal Drury Lane

Next, we stroll over to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, London’s most haunted theater. This venue, with its long history of fires, performances, and restless spirits, promises a spooky yet friendly encounter. Our guide recounts tales of ghosts that still supposedly wander the stage, harmless but mischievous, eager to reclaim their spot in the spotlight.

What makes this stop compelling is how the theatre’s history is woven into the stories. We learn about the ghosts’ playful nature and their connection to London’s theatrical heritage. The experience is lively, with plenty of room to imagine actors past and present sharing the stage with spectral spectators.

Freemasons’ Hall: Secrets in Stone

Passing by the majestic Freemasons’ Hall, we observe the symbolic architecture that hints at the secret rituals and societies shrouded in mystery. The guide explains the building’s significance and its role as a hub for Victorian secret societies. Here, we get a glimpse of London’s hidden side, a world of symbols, rituals, and perhaps, clandestine meetings.

Although the tour doesn’t include a formal inside visit, the exterior’s architecture and the stories we hear about it make this a fascinating stop. It’s a reminder that much of London’s history is veiled in secrecy — a perfect setting for those curious about hidden traditions.

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The Royal Opera House: From Fires to Glamour

We take a brief walk to the Royal Opera House, a place that has seen fires, illusions, and now hosts world-class performances. This building symbolizes London’s resilience and transformation. While we don’t tour the interior, we learn about its dramatic past, which includes mysterious fires and legendary illusions, adding a layer of mystique to its modern glamour.

Covent Garden Station: Ghosts of Greed

Next, we pass by Covent Garden Station, where stories of greedy ghosts and restless spirits linger. The station’s history as a bustling hub of commerce and its darker tales of greed and hauntings provide a gritty contrast to the elegant facades of nearby theaters.

St Paul’s Church: The Actors’ Sanctuary

Our walk leads us to St Paul’s Church, known as the Actors’ Church. Its spooky garden and storied past as a gathering place for performers add to the theatrical theme. The guide shares tales of actors and actresses who have sought refuge here from the spotlight and the ghosts that may still linger in its quiet corners.

Watkins Books: London’s Esoteric Treasure

We finish among the shelves of Watkins Books, London’s oldest esoteric bookstore. Here, tarot cards, forbidden books, and mystical objects are sold, echoing the mystical themes of the tour. The final activity involves drawing a tarot card — a personal reflection meant to connect you to the stories you’ve heard. While not fortune-telling, it adds a fun, introspective element to the experience.

The Experience and Value

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, storytelling, and personal reflection. The knowledgeable guide helps bring London’s haunted stories to life, making it accessible for both history buffs and those interested in the supernatural. The walk’s pace is comfortable, with frequent stops that allow for questions and discussion.

Pricing is reasonable considering the depth of storytelling and access to iconic landmarks. The inclusion of a tarot card reading adds a distinctive personal touch, making the experience more memorable than a typical sightseeing walk.

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is its focus on London’s hidden stories — tales that reveal a city often thought of as glamorous but which also has a shadowy, mystical side. The guide’s storytelling is lively and amusing, and the stops are carefully chosen to maximize interest while giving you space to absorb the ambiance.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour is entirely on foot, comfortable shoes are a must — London’s cobblestones and historic streets can be uneven. The tour lasts about 2 hours and involves some outdoor walking, so check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella or sunscreen as needed.

While children under 16 aren’t recommended, adults of all ages who enjoy history, ghosts, and mysteries will find this tour engaging. The experience is flexible with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk way to explore London’s secret side.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys stories of haunted places, secret societies, and Victorian mysteries, this tour will hit the right notes. History enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed tales behind London’s theaters and architectural wonders, while those with a mystical streak will enjoy drawing their tarot card and exploring Watkins Books afterward.

It’s perfect for visitors who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines education, entertainment, and a touch of the supernatural. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates storytelling and a dash of mystery, this walk offers a memorable way to see Covent Garden.

The Sum Up

This Covent Garden tour offers a compelling blend of theatrical history, supernatural stories, and mystical reflection. It’s a walk that appeals to those curious about London’s darker tales and secret traditions, delivered by an engaging guide with a knack for storytelling. The inclusion of a tarot card reading makes it a unique experience that combines learning with personal insight.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a high-energy adventure or indoor sightseeing, it provides a relaxed, story-rich journey through one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods. If you’re interested in history with a spooky twist or simply want a different perspective on London’s vibrant culture, this tour is definitely worth considering.

For anyone seeking an authentic, slightly eerie, and genuinely enriching experience, it’s a charming way to spend two hours in London — with plenty of stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 16 are not recommended due to the nature of the stories and themes discussed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential. Since most of the tour is outdoors, bring an umbrella or sunscreen depending on the weather.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with frequent stops and some walking between locations.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Abuelo café at 26 Southampton Street and ends back at the same spot, near Covent Garden.

Is the tarot card reading included?
Yes, drawing a tarot card at Watkins Books is part of the experience. It’s meant for personal reflection, not fortune-telling.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide available in English?
The guide speaks Italian, but the tour’s description and storytelling make it accessible for English speakers as well.

Are refreshments available during the tour?
Not during the tour itself, but drinks at the Royal Opera House are optional and not included.

In sum, this Covent Garden walk is a charming, thought-provoking excursion into London’s mysterious side. Perfect for those who love history, theaters, and a touch of the supernatural, it offers a distinctive way to explore the city’s hidden stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: