London is known for its diverse and lively market scene, offering a plethora of options ranging from food to fashion. With so many markets to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. However, this article will provide readers with the best markets in London that they shouldn’t miss.
From gorgeous covered food emporia to markets bursting with antiques and flea finds, London has it all. This article will offer practical tips and a map for exploring the best London markets, making it easier for readers to plan their visit and experience the vibrant market culture of the city.
Key Takeaways
- London offers a diverse and lively market scene, with options ranging from food to fashion.
- The article provides readers with the best markets in London that they shouldn’t miss, along with practical tips and a map for exploring them.
- With the help of this article, readers can plan their visit and experience the vibrant market culture of London.
The Best Markets in London
Borough Market
Located in London Bridge, Borough Market is the oldest and the most famous food market in London. The market building is reserved mainly for fresh produce and producers, including fishmongers, cheesemongers, and organic vegetable grocers. The Borough Market Kitchen, located at the rear of the market, offers an array of street food dishes. The market is open from Monday to Thursday (10am – 5pm), Friday (10am – 6pm), Saturday (8am – 5pm), and Sunday (8am-2pm).
Columbia Road Market
Columbia Road Flower Market, located in Shoreditch, is a popular Sunday market in London. It is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike, offering a friendly and convivial atmosphere. The market is full of traders who have been there for decades, selling armfuls of blooms and house plants. Visitors can go early to avoid the crowds or go late to snap up a few bargains. The market is open on Sundays from 8am to 2pm.
Camden Market
Camden Market is actually a collection of five markets located between Camden Town and Chalk Farm. Visitors can explore all of them, including the smaller Inverness Street Market. The neighboring Camden Lock Market and Camden Stables Market are recommended for those who have limited time. The Lock Market mixes independent makers and a small street food market on the water, while the Stables Market offers an offbeat selection with a more alternative bent. It is open from 10am to dusk daily, with some traders only trading on Friday and Saturday.
Maltby Street Market
Located in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a relative newcomer to the London market scene, having only opened in 2009. However, it has cemented its position as one of the go-to street food markets in London. The market is known for its high-quality traders, including Waffle On and The Cheese Truck. The market is more local than nearby Borough, but it still gets busy on a sunny weekend. It is open on Saturdays from 8am to 3pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm.
Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market is one of the most famous markets in London, located in the center of the city. Although the extent of its “market” status is questionable, it offers a historic market spot with independent and quirky finds if visitors poke around. The market is open from Monday to Saturday (10am – 6pm) and Sunday (12pm- 6pm).
Brick Lane Market
Located in Shoreditch, Brick Lane Market is a cool street market in London that shines on Sundays. It offers a jumble of stalls selling clothes, handmade items, household goods, and street food. Visitors can venture off the main drag for even more treats, including designer makers selling gorgeous jewelry and accessories at the Sunday Upmarket. The Backyard Market offers a similar vibe, while the Tea Rooms offer vintage shops and quirky finds. The Boiler House Food Hall is recommended for those who are more interested in filling their stomachs. The market is open on Sundays from 10am to 5pm.
Old Spitalfields Market
Located in Spitalfields, this market has transformed from a tired trader hub to a bustling destination and shoppers’ idyll. It is open every day, with a changing roster of traders that guarantees no two visits are exactly the same. On Thursdays, antiques lovers can enjoy the Old Spitalfields Antique Market, where they can find the widest selection of antiques if they go early. The market is also known for its food, with a host of independent eateries in the small spaces that run along the market’s periphery. The market is open from Monday to Wednesday and Friday (10am – 6pm), Thursday (8am – 6pm), Saturday (10am – 6pm), and Sunday (10am – 5pm).
Portobello Road
Located in Notting Hill, Portobello Road is the world’s largest antiques market that has retained its sense of charm and friendliness. The market wends its way along the sinuous Portobello Road and is actually five interconnecting markets with separate sections for fresh produce, clothing, second-hand goods, household stuff, a flea market, and antiques. The antiques section comes into its own on Saturdays, cementing Portobello’s position as one of the go-to Saturday markets in London. It is open from Monday to Wednesday (9am – 6pm), Thursday (9am – 1pm), Friday (9am – 7pm), and Saturday (9am – 7pm).
Alfies Antiques Market
Located in Marylebone, Alfies Antiques Market is London’s largest indoors antiques and vintage
Practical Tips and Map for Exploring the Best London Markets
For a successful market experience, visitors are advised to bring cash as some traders only accept cash payments. Public transport is recommended as parking can be difficult and costly. Beat the crowds by arriving early. Check out the map below for the best markets in London:
| Market Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Borough Market | Southwark, London |
| Camden Market | Camden, London |
| Portobello Road Market | Notting Hill, London |
| Brick Lane Market | Shoreditch, London |
| Columbia Road Flower Market | Bethnal Green, London |
Explore these markets for a diverse range of food, clothing, antiques, and more.