Walk through the Garden

If there is one iconic place in London that has reflected the changes in the town and the world in general, it's the Covent Garden Market in downtown London. From getting a fantastic cup of coffee to finding a vast assortment of artisan cheeses to sitting with a burek and a good friend for some people watching, this place has a lot to please.

Indoor/Outdoor Market  130 King St London, Ontario

Named after the famous market in London, England, it has been the location of a marketplace since it was recognized as London's Official market in 1846. In 1853, a market building was built and in 1903 it was threatened with demolition but received a renovation instead. In the twenties the market square was a favoured place on Saturday nights with the revellers and party crowds. It was also very popular with the 'buskers' of the time including preachers and charlatans. A few changes over the years saw the market bazaar close, the 1853 building demolished and a new parking structure/ground floor market arose in 1956. In 1999, the present market was built on the same site with a design reminiscent of the 1853 building.

Chris's Country Cuts   Covent Garden Market   London, Ontario

Every year for the last three we have been getting our Christmas pheasants (3) from Chris's Country Cuts at the market. We have always received quality good at a fair price and the service has been friendly and helpful. We ordered our birds and took away some jalapeño pepperette-style sausage and it was quite good. They have a wide array of meat products to offer and the combined experience of the gentlemen who are the cornerstone of the business almost guarantees you leave with the fixings for a great dinner.

Smith Cheese   Covent Garden Market   London, Ontario

My favourite place to get some great cheese and compote is Smith Cheese. Those that read my cheese article will know how much I appreciate good quality artisanal cheeses and this is where I get it in town. Be sure to stop by and pick up some Monforte's Tuscano, my favourite sheep milk cheese and for a lovely alternative to typical Gouda, some Gunn's Hill Gouda made from sheep's milk as well.

There would be an outdoor skating rink if the weather was right

During the winter there is a popular outdoor skating rink for everyone's enjoyment and for a bit more lively entertainment, across the street is the newly named Budweiser Gardens, formerly the Labatt Centre where sports and music are on the menu.

Coming to London for Christmas? Don't forget to come walk through the garden for your gift-giving needs. I'm sure you'll find it an interesting and a great place to shop both locally and globally, if that is your thing.