We all love a mooch around a charming market, and it’s no secret London has plenty to choose from. If you’re looking for great food, furniture or just a fun afternoon, London’s markets are a winner.
If you don’t live in London but want to visit some wonderful markets, find yourself some accommodation for the weekend, such as a serviced apartment, and prepare for an eclectic experience of food, furniture and relaxing afternoon fun at these 12 haunts.
1. Camden Market
A must visit, Camden Market has thousands of vendors to peruse, boasting stalls of vintage clothing, street food, art, records, instruments and comic book paraphernalia.
Opening times: Monday to Sunday, 10am-late. Times may vary for each vendor. Closed on Christmas day.
2. Columbia Road Flower Market
Amazing colours and fragrances emanate from every corner of this amazing market. There are so many exotic plants and local flowers, its horticulturalists dreams – and very popular with bloggers looking for the perfect pic.
Opening times: Sundays – arrive early!
3. Borough Market
One of the biggest and longest running food markets in London, Borough Market is a must for any food enthusiast. A huge range of cuisines awaits, from local picks to global delicacies. It’s a feast for the senses!
Opening times: Monday to Saturday, 10am-5pm. Closed on public holidays. Pro tip: there are more traders open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
4. Greenwich Market
Nestled in the centre of World Heritage Site Greenwich is Greenwich Market. You’ll find a varied range of more than 100 stalls, showcasing antique furniture, culinary delights, local artwork and more. Conveniently located by Greenwich Observatory and Cutty Sark, for those keeping to a packed itinerary.
Opening times: Monday to Sunday, 10am-5.30pm. But be warned – it can get really busy on weekends.
5. Portobello Road Market
Antique enthusiasts MUST visit Portobello Road Market, the largest antiques market in the world. There are hundreds of stalls holding hidden treasures. It gets busy here, so be prepared for an excitable crowd.
Opening times: Saturdays. A smaller number of stalls open on Fridays, and on weekdays a handful of shops stay open along Portobello Road.
6. Old Spitalfields Market
Full to the brim with vintage fashion, modern and retro accessories, art and home décor, you’ll find many one-of-a-kind pieces at Old Spitalfields Market.
When to visit: Monday to Sunday, varying times each day.
7. Broadway Market
Hackey’s Broadway Market originated from a jellied eel stall in 1900. Now it has a huge collection of delicious street food, local produce and exotic fruit and veggies. You can also find clothing stalls as well as arts and crafts. Grab a snack and explore.
Opening times: Saturdays, 9am-5pm.
8. Alfie’s Antiques Market
Antiques, vintage fashion and eye-catching home décor await in this electric indoor market. Perfect for rainy days when you feel like wondering.
Opening times: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am-6pm.
9. Brick Lane Market
If you like variety, Brick Lane is for you. This market has everything, including clothing, furniture, food and all sorts of oddities. You can find live music and street art here too. Great for a truly entertaining afternoon.
Opening times: Sundays.