Best London Markets

Amongst the plethora of attractions that London offers are its many animated markets. England has historically been referred to as a ‘nation of shopkeepers’, so it’s hardly surprising that its capital city abounds with several diverse markets, which are well worth a visit. So, why not plan a shopping sojourn. The city is ready to mesmerize you endlessly with its diverse shopping options. Share your experience with Travel n Talk.

Borough Market

Borough Market located near the transport hub of London Bridge and the city’s newest attraction the lofty Shard is London’s oldest market. Borough market, which that has been in operation since the thirteenth century is a gourmet food market. The market is immensely popular with foodies, chefs and office goers who work in the area. Approximately seventy market stalls showcase the wares of producers from around the country. Fresh produce, meats, fruits, olive oils, fish, cheeses, baked goods, coffees and teas are on sale at Borough market. The market is open for business from Wednesday to Saturday. An immensely popular lunch spot, Borough market is also open for lunch on Monday and Tuesday.

Portobello Road Market

The Portobello Road Market is another historic London market that dates back to the 1800’s. The market is renowned as the world’s largest antique market, and it plays host to more than a thousand vendors of antiques and collectibles. However, aside from antique dealers the market also has vendors offering vintage and fashion clothing, artisan bread and baked goods, costume jewelry, music, ceramics and more. A carnival atmosphere prevails on the main market days, Friday and Saturday.

Old Spitalfields Market

The Old Spitalfields Market is a covered market that dates back to the Victorian era. Numerous stalls and shops offering an array of wares line the aisles of the market, which is also home several restaurants and cafes. Antiques, artifacts, furniture and design accents, clothing and accessories, artisan chocolates and baked goods, fair trade products and more are all on offer at this lively market.

Southbank Centre Food Market

Londoners are passionate about locally sourced produce and artisan food products. The city is home to several food markets; one such popular haunt is the Southbank Centre Market, which assembles on Southbank Square near the Royal Festival Hall. Held from Friday until Sunday, the Southbank Centre Market brings together independent producers and traders offering meats, spices, fresh, cooked foods and more.

Maltby Street Market

Located in the fast-gentrifying neighborhood of Bermondsey in South-East London, the Maltby Street Market is a new addition to London’s market scene. The market gathers every weekend and features stalls, eateries and pop up bars offering international foods, fresh produce, coffee, honey, preserves, baked goods, artisan wines and more.

Camden Lock Market

The Camden Lock Market located in the heart of the borough of Camden in North London is often regarded as the artistic heart of the city. The market's more than 100 stalls and shops offer a variety of wares. Camden Lock's selection includes fashion-forward apparel, jewelry and accessories, vintage threads, artworks, photographs and prints, homewares and design elements, books, music, gifts, health products, beauty treatments and much more. The market is open all week, and if you want to avoid the hordes, you should plan to visit on a weekday.

Alfies Antique Market

If antiques are your passion, then Alfies Antique Market in Marylebone should feature on your list of must-visit markets in London. Extending over five floors, Alfie's plays host to several antique dealers who offer a selection of antiques, collectible and curiosities from various eras and regions from around the world.

Broadway Market

The au courant area of Hackney in London’s East End is home to the vivacious Broadway market, the oldest chartered market in London. The market’s many stalls and shops offer unique fashions, gift items, art and crafts along with organic produce, meats, baked goods, cheeses and more.

Brick Lane Market

Brick Lane in the Tower Hamlets borough of London is home to city’s Bangladeshi community and myriad ‘curry’ restaurants. On Sunday’s Brick Lane hosts a vibrant flea market, a popular haunt with bargain seekers who come here to shop for second-hand clothes, art deco furniture, Asian bric-a-brac, kitschy wares and so on.