The best markets in London

So, let’s get exploring, shall we?

The must-visit markets in London

Borough Market

Situated at 8 Southwark Street, approximately a two-minute walk from London Bridge. Borough Market is the oldest market in London, dating back to the thirteenth century. It boasts over 100 stalls, ranging from selling fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, fish, street food, ethnic food, spices, tea, coffee, and so much more.

Open from Tuesday to Friday 10.00 am to 5.00 pm, Saturdays from 9 pm till 5 pm, and on Sunday 10.00 am till 4.00 pm. Why not get together with a group of friends who love street food and go on a culinary journey you won’t forget in a hurry?

Brick Lane Market

Brick Lane Market is another famous emporium, in the heart of Shoreditch, that has shaped the London shopping experience for many years. Brick Lane is steeped in rich history, dating back to the 1600s, when it began selling clothes, fabrics, bagels, and household goods. The stalls reflect over 400 years of immigration, making it one of London's richest cultural experiences.

Today, Brick Lane is home to a collection of vendors, including Backyard Sunday, Upmarket, Vintage, and Boiler House Food Hall. It's known for selling multicultural food, items from independent designers, creative art, and vibrant street culture. Shopping-wise, you can buy almost anything you want, from carpets to electrical gear and jewellery. Don't be surprised if you find a retro Levi's gem or a one-off leather piece. Whatever you purchase, you’re bound to make a fashion statement.

Maltby Street Market

Tucked away under an old Victorian railway bridge in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a newer addition to the bric-and-brac tradition. Opening in 2010, you might be forgiven for thinking it's the sister of Borough Market. Maltby has roughly 30 stalls and really is a hidden gem, offering a curated selection of food and drinks.

Food-wise, delight in top-notch Ethiopian, Greek, and Lebanese food. Shoppers can buy BBQ meats, chips, dumplings, toasted cheese sandwiches, spices, wine, ice cream, honey, and coffee every Friday and Saturday. Escape from the usual hustle and bustle with this quaint but charming hidden gem that few tourists know about.

Camden Market

This fabulous market is one of the most famous and popular tourist destinations in London. Camden Market doesn't even need an introduction. Stepping out from Camden station, you're greeted with an atmosphere like no other. From the grunge crowd, to electric punks, alternative types and musicians.

Camden offers shoppers a group of adjoining markets positioned along the Regent's Canal and surrounding streets. You can buy absolutely anything your heart desires from firm favourites like vintage clothes, either goth, punk, or streetwear, to boots, leather jackets, and jewellery.

You can also buy fancy prints, paintings, handmade crafts, music memorabilia, vinyl records, comic books, retro toys, home decor, instruments, and even band merchandise. Camden has it all. While there, why not take a photo next to Amy Winehouse's statue, one of Camden's most famous residents?

Portobello Road Market

It doesn't get any better than this world-famous, super-stylish, and trendy area in the heart of Notting Hill, Portobello Road Market. Boasting London's largest antiques market, be sure to haggle, bargain, pick up, and put down until you find that perfect piece to complement your dresser. If you're a fashion follower, roll up your sleeves and hunt hard for a piece from Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, or Isaac Mizrahi. We'll try not to be too jealous.

Bargain hunters can also buy books, records, homeware, and seasonal items. There's also plenty of choice when it comes to buying food and drinks, with fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, cheese, and street food. Portobello isn't just about the shopping experience; it's your chance to marvel at the stunning houses and get celebrity spotting. You never know, you might bump into some of the cast of Notting Hill. Here's hoping.

Spitalfields Market

Based at 16 Horner Square, Old Spitalfields Market is one of London's busiest markets, with its history dating back to 1638, when King Charles I first opened it. Initially established to sell fish, meat, and fruit, Spitalfields hasn't pivoted much from its original purpose, but it’s still known as a superb place to buy protein.

Over the centuries, this venue has seen its own gentrification as the area has blossomed into a hub for arts, crafts, fashion, and food. Open Monday to Friday from 10.00 am to 5:30 pm and on weekends. Such is its appeal, big brands, like Lululemon, Rag & Bone, McQ by Alexander McQueen, and Jo Malone, all hoping to capitalise on the Spitalfields appeal. 

Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market, located at 5B Greenwich, London, SE10 9HT, near Greenwich Park, Cutty Sark, and the River Thames. Dating back to the 17th century, this renowned venue is primarily hosted indoors, with 120 stalls selling jewellery, clothes, second-hand furniture, prints, books, memorabilia, unusual gifts, and general bric-ànd-brac.

Greenwich has a bustling street food scene, offering artisan delights from Indian, Ethiopian, Jamaican, Italian, and Asian cuisines. Get ready to tuck in to some of the best street food in the city.

This venue is open seven days a week from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. But the antiques and collectables section only runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Broadway Market

Established in the 1890s and running from London Fields to the Regent's Canal, Broadway Market in Hackney has seen a resurgence since its community rebrand in 2004. Now the area is graced with trendy hipsters, models, and creative art types looking to buy the best organic fruit, vegetables, cute Asian stationery, screen-printed posters, second-hand clothes, vinyls, and vintage books.

Spend a day at Broadway and indulge in an array of delicious foods. Tuck into their artisan bread, cheese, meats and fish. Enjoy Middle Eastern, Mexican, and Asian fusion food. Wash it all down with the finest roasted coffee, various teas, and fresh fruit juices. We can’t think of anything better to do on the weekend.

The best markets in London for street food!

Nothing beats London's vast array of stalls for nailing the best street food on offer, and Borough Market continues to lead the way. From traditional Iraqi kubba to reinvented Scotch Eggs, to Furness Food Hut, serving huge pans of paella, with seafood, meat, or vegetables.

Let's not forget the eclectic food mix at Camden. There's something for everyone here. In the mood for Mexican cuisine? Seek out Meathead Mexican's juicy birria tacos. More of a plant lover than a meat head? Magic Falafel's treats are...well, magic. Want to read more? Check out the full blog post here: Discover the Best Street Food in London: A Foodie's Guide.

Love London, move here!

London is regarded as one of the most incredible cities in the world. From its rich history, fabulous markets, and excellent shopping experience, what's not to love about London? Want to take your admiration a step further? We don't blame you. Why don’t you move here? UNCLE apartments are dotted around this beautiful city - book a viewing today!