One of the best ways to see a city is to have a wander through its markets, and London offers a cornucopia of choices. These markets are where the capital's heart truly beats, each one paying homage to its district’s history and individual personality, shaped by generations of Londoners who have called the area home. Whether you're after artisanal cheeses, rare vinyl records, furniture or flowers – or simply want to soak up the atmosphere – these markets offer a genuine London experience you won't find anywhere else. They're also great for food lovers, with mouthwatering street food stalls and MICHELIN Guide restaurants just a stone's throw away.
Borough Market: The Most Famous for a Reason
One of London’s culinary cornerstones, Borough Market has withstood the test of time, having existed in the heart of Southwark for centuries in some form or another. It has developed into a vibrant tapestry of the city's freshest flavours, from specialist cheeses to freshly baked sourdough, from fragrant spices to seasonal vegetables. It caters just as well to discerning locals on their weekly grocery runs as it does curious tourists eager to sample London's culinary zeitgeist. The market's labyrinthine alleys beckon food enthusiasts of all stripes, housing food stalls and a number of brilliant restaurants, taking you on a gastronomic journey from Sri Lankan specialities at Rambutan to West African and Brazilian fusion at Akara. To avoid the market's famous crowds, consider coming early on a weekday, when you'll be able to linger longer at each stall.Maltby Street Market: Borough Market's Hidden Neighbour
Tucked away in a tangle of streets near London Bridge, Maltby Street Market is one of the city's lesser-known gems. Launched in 2010, this weekend market under 19th-century railway arches offers something a little different from the sprawling Borough Market, acting as a cool alternative cousin for those in the know. Along The Ropewalk, its flag-lined central alley, you'll find an abundance of mouthwatering street food stalls, as well as boutique craft and antique vendors. While it may not be on everyone's radar when visiting London, its compact size means there will still be the buzz of a crowd. Once you've discovered this local favourite, you'll be hard-pressed to resist its delights every time you’re in the capital.
Portobello Road Market: The Notting Hill Heartbeat
Portobello Road Market, a landmark shopping destination and, for many, classic Instagram fodder, is a must-visit when in Notting Hill. With over 1,000 dealers, this market was popular long before Hugh Grant graced its stalls. From antiques and jewellery to fresh produce and vintage clothing, the market's wide-ranging offerings cater to every whim. Do your research before coming however, as not all stalls are open every day; Saturdays offer the best range of goods but are inevitably busier. Portobello Road is also a great spot for food lovers due to Notting Hill's ever-increasing number of top restaurants. Three-MICHELIN-Star CORE by Clare Smyth and The Ledbury are its crown jewels, but for more of a neighbourhood feel consider Straker's, The Pelican and the fully vegan Holy Carrot.Brixton Village Market: A Global Feast of Flavours
Brixton Village is a colourful mosaic of culture and cuisine, where over 100 independent sellers representing more than 50 nationalities come together. With roots going back over 160 years, the market remains a vital part of Brixton's Afro-Caribbean community, showcasing a diverse mix of traditional traders – greengrocers, fishmongers, bakers – alongside innovative contemporary artisans. It's also where Adejoké Bakare first founded MICHELIN-Starred Chishuru. Across the stalls, you’ll find everything from locally sourced produce to fruits and vegetables you’ll never find in your local supermarket. Get there early to catch the lively buzz, where different generations and communities combine to keep Brixton’s food scene constantly evolving.Love all things MICHELIN?
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Brick Lane Market: An East London Icon
Brick Lane Market is a buzzing epicentre of wonders, where the hunt for a unique find amid the bric-a-brac is an adventure in itself. The area has a fascinating cultural history, with migration patterns over the years including Huguenot, Jewish and Bangladeshi communities. The latter two mean the market stalls are fringed by the neighbourhood's well-known curry houses and the 24-hour bagels at Beigel Bake. The market itself overflows with antiques, fabrics and quirky collectables that beg to be discovered. On weekends, the energy intensifies as vendors eagerly share complimentary tastes of their global fare – be it rich curries or inventive vegan and gluten-free specialities. It's also the perfect place to buy a souvenir to take back home when you want more than just a fridge magnet.Smithfield Market: One for the Hardcore Foodies
This isn't the kind of market you stroll around browsing trinkets; it's the kind where you get up before dawn to get the best deal on every cut of meat imaginable. With 140 years of history, this one-time livestock market is now the go-to place for individuals and businesses to buy top-quality meat. Open from midnight until 7am, it's an undeniably early start but, if you're seriously into food and cooking, it's an experience to remember. If you're more of a seafood lover, Billingsgate Fish Market is a great alternative, but here it's all about the meat. As for nearby restaurants, it's hard to look past St. JOHN, the kind of nose-to-tail, traditional British restaurant that feels like a perfect match for Smithfield Market.
Camden Market: Long-Time Home of Alternative London
Camden Market, like Camden itself, is an energetic melange of London's alternative culture, drawing a staggering 28 million visitors a year. If you plan to join them, be aware that this is no small street market. The spread-out emporium is located across three distinct areas: Camden Lock, Stables Market and Hawley Wharf. Each one boasts its own unique character, united by a creative verve that embodies the spirit of Camden Town. Across them all you will find everything from local boutiques to diverse food stalls, catering to all ages and tastes, along with a lively music scene and striking street art. When you're in need of a sit down and refreshment, head to The Parakeet, one of North London's best pubs with a penchant for wood-fired grilling.Old Spitalfields Market: More Than Just a Market
In London’s bustling East End, Old Spitalfields Market stands as a testament to the city’s ability to reinvent itself. Operating since the 1600s, this covered market is now a seven-day-a-week emporium of fashion, food and crafts. Shoppers can lose themselves among stalls packed with vintage treasures, handmade jewellery and avant-garde fashion. Music lovers should come on the first or third Friday of the month for the old-school Vinyl Market. For foodies, The Kitchens offers a curated collection of street food vendors and there are a host of Inspector-approved restaurants nearby too, from top-notch BBQ at Smokestak to divine oyster mushroom skewers at Bubala. Hosting special events throughout the year, Old Spitalfields isn't just a market; it's a living, breathing celebration of London's eclectic charm.
Columbia Road Flower Market: A Splendid Sunday Ritual
Okay, there's no food to be found here, but we couldn't resist recommending its riot of colour. Nestled in the heart of Hackney, Columbia Road Flower Market transforms the area into a cacophony of hues and scents every Sunday. From 8am to 3pm, this narrow street explodes into life as market traders line the pavements with an exquisite display of flowers, houseplants, shrubs and more. Bursting with blooms, the street becomes a living canvas, each turn revealing a new, picture-perfect scene. Come rain or shine, this all-weather market perseveres, offering its own delightful brand of fragrant chaos. And don't worry, you won't go hungry, with Inspector-approved spots nearby including Brawn, Bar Valette and The Marksman.Greenwich Market: A Historical Treasure Trove
Steeped in history, Greenwich Market is a showcase for London's designer community and antiques aficionados. Established by Royal Charter in the 1700s and located within a UNESCO World Heritage site, this indoor market has recently undergone a complete transformation, filled with stalls that stock one-of-a-kind accessories, bespoke clothing and rare vintage books. Complemented by regular events and late-night openings, Greenwich Market is the ideal spot for those seeking a glimpse into London's dynamic artistic landscape. Foodies won't be short of attractions too, with Greenwich Market's mixture of artisan producers, sellers and popular street food stalls, which include plenty of plant-based options.Your London itinerary may be jam-packed with iconic landmarks and luxury shopping, but don't overlook the city's markets the next time you pay a visit. The market experience offers an authentic taste of local life, creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
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Hero Image: Borough Market, one of the best markets in London for food lovers. © coldsnowstorm/iStock
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