Vibrant and bustling, England’s capital London is brimming with markets selling top-notch food and drink, unique arts, crafts, jewellery and fashion plus everything in-between.
We have sifted out the most popular London markets that are well worth a few hours of ‘mooching’ time.
1. Camden Market
The brilliant, buzzy atmosphere at Camden Market attracts hundreds of visitors searching for unique fashion, vintage and retro items, tiny jewellery stalls, arts, crafts and a whole lot more.
Adjacent to Camden Lock is the iconic Dingwalls (once home to bands like The Stranglers, The Clash and Blondie), where the bang-up music-based vibe still lives on. With a collection of several markets in close proximity, where better to find battered Dr. Marten boots, hippy flares, punk and rock fashion, books, music and original garments that you can guarantee no-one else will be wearing. Even when the market’s closed, Camden’s shops, pubs, clubs, restaurants and bars come to life making it a great place to browse, eat, drink and chill.
Open 10am to 6pm every day. There is full disabled access. Nearby tube stations: Camden Town and Chalk Farm Road on the Northern Line.
2. King’s Cross Real Food Market
This compact but exciting market promotes, encourages and spreads the love for small and independent food makers. From honey to ham and bagels to beef, if you’re looking for tasty ethically produced food and drink from the UK and abroad, then this is a great place to be.
Buying from local suppliers also supports sustainability and so with their tasty fare filling your belly, it’s a win win situation! This is definitely one of the more alternative places to visit in London, but great for a real local experience.
Open Wednesday to Friday, 12pm to 7pm. There is full disabled access. Nearby tube stations: Kings Cross St Pancras. Nearby railway stations: Kings Cross or St Pancras.
3. Roman Road Yard Market
Situated on the road to Colchester, this ancient market is on one of the oldest trading routes in the city. In fact, Boadicea came through here on her way to burn up the Romans.
You’ll get a taste of the proper old East End of London with people rummaging through stalls piled high with discounted fashion, jewellery and make-up. There are normally plenty of bargains to be had from high street stores’ end-of-line clothing too. Saturdays alternate with ‘designer-maker’ and ‘vintage’ ware so if you’re looking for unique items, this market offers a chance to pick up some great bargains. There’s a food court to keep you going too.
Open Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 4pm and Saturday 9am to 5pm. There is full disabled access. Nearby tube stations: Mile End and Bow Road DLR. Buses: 8 (it stops just before the western entry of the market).
4. Borough Market
Foodie heaven is found here on Earth among the warren of passages that form Borough Market, a striking glass structure housing around 100 stalls and providing a great place to eat, chat, rest and relax.
Discover everything from cheese, meat, vegetables, cider, cakes, pastries and tea from UK producers, all jostling for position alongside international producers and street food as well. You can graze for hours, pick up something for dinner or just grab a coffee and watch the world go by, savouring the rich aromas and colourful backdrop of the stalls. Some traders don’t operate Monday and Tuesday but there’s still plenty of choice, whilst Wednesday to Saturday sees the entire market in full swing.
Open Monday to Thursday 10am to 5pm, Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturday 8am to 5pm, this can get pretty packed, especially Bank Holidays. There is full disabled access. Nearby tube station: London Bridge. Nearby train station: London Bridge.
5. Greenwich Market
Groovy Greenwich market has around 120 stalls and is located in one of the coolest parts of the capital. Surrounded by independent shops in the adjoining streets, this is the place for collectables, antiques, art, crafts, fashion and jewellery.
You’ll also get the chance to browse the wares of quirky cottages industries and small independent designers. Soak up the Bohemian atmosphere and maybe catch the students from adjacent Trinity College of Music doing an impromptu rendition. The market lies in an area steeped in history so take time to visit the National Maritime Museum, marvel at the Cutty Sark ship or stare in wonder at the fabulous views in Greenwich Park.
Open every day 10am to 5.30pm, accessible for disabled but the stone and cobble floors are uneven. Easy to reach by DLR (Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich). Nearby tube station: Greenwich. Buses: 129, 177, 180, 188, 199, 286 and 386. Or take a river boat ride from one of the many pick-up points along the Thames.
If you fancy a trip to this world class city, check out our guide to the most popular luxury hotels in London. You might also like to view more articles on our UK travel guide.
