It was a sad day when West End’s Lock’n’Load closed its doors, but we couldn’t help but be excited about what the team was planning for the venue. All has now been revealed – Covent Garden has taken over and the space’s past identity is a mere memory. The venue has been significantly overhauled to reflect its name, with patrons immersed in greenery from the front bar right through to the outdoor European-style garden. Continuing with the botanical theme, the bar has a strong focus on gins and cocktails, with more than 120 gins on the menu hailing from all over the world. You can pair your gin (or any other beverage that tickles your fancy – Pimm’s and Aperol Spritz are on tap) with a selection of shareable eats ranging from bite-sized morsels to heartier dishes – think chipotle chicken tacos, zucchini fritters, meze boards, and seared wagyu with kale, Welsh rarebit and horseradish. If you really want to embrace the Covent Garden way go for the G + High Tea, which presents you with a watering can full of its signature G & Tea (Tanqueray gin, creme de mure, citrus, cranberry, grapefruit, and strawberry and cream tea soda) served with a spread of sweet and savoury treats. Functions are very welcome at Covent Garden, with each area of the space (including the upstairs bar and adjoining balcony) available for hire.