London’s first square surrounded by houses was built here in 1631 by Inigo Jones, one of London’s most famous architects.
The houses were intended for “gentlemen and men of ability” and up until the Great Fire of London in 1666, Covent Garden was the most fashionable London address to live at.
The original market started in 1670 and by the 1700’s the area was famous for its coffee houses, where literary men met and discussed events of the day.
The area was also popular with artists and actors, and by 1722 was home to 22 gambling dens.