12 best markets in London that are a must-visit!
London is a city that knows how to market… its markets! There’s truly something for everyone—from vibrant flower markets and famous antiques hubs to hipster street food joints that’ll make your tastebuds dance. London’s market scene is brimming with history, culture, and let’s face it, some of the most delicious food you’ll find across the city.
So, grab your reusable shopping bag and maybe a lightweight jacket (because London’s weather loves to keep things interesting), and let’s explore 12 of the top markets you simply can’t miss.
1. Borough Market
What to Buy: High-quality, sustainable food
Where: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL (Closest tube: London Bridge)
When: Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00; Sat 08:00-17:00; Sun 10:00-15:00
Tip: There are amazing food tours you can take around Borough market!
Borough Market is an indoor market that has been serving hungry Londoners since 1756 and remains one of the city’s best food markets today. It’s a foodie’s paradise, with artisan cheese, freshly baked bread, and street food from all over the world. And if you’re a film buff, you might recognize it from movies like Bridget Jones’s Diary.
Why it’s Special: Besides being an iconic London food market, it’s known for promoting sustainable and high-quality produce. Perfect for those who care about what they eat!
Tips for Visiting: The market is busiest on Saturdays, so aim for a mid-week visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Plus, many of the food stalls give out free samples—score!
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2. Covent Garden Market
What to Buy: General goods, arts & crafts, antiques, clothing & accessories
Where: 14 James Street, London WC2E 8BU (Closest tube: Covent Garden)
Covent Garden is a central London gem, known for its multiple markets in one place. From Apple Market with its handmade crafts and antiques on Mondays to the East Colonnade Market selling everything from children’s wear to sweets, this is the place to go for a little bit of everything.
Why it’s Special: This is more than a market—there’s live music, street performers, and plenty of charming shops around to keep you entertained for hours.
Don’t Miss: Jubilee Market on Mondays if you’re an antiques lover, or any day for arts and crafts.
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3. Columbia Road Flower Market
What to Buy: Flowers and plants
Where: Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG (Closest tube: Old Street)
When: Sun 08:00-14:00
If you’ve got a green thumb (or even if you don’t), Columbia Road Flower Market is the most vibrant way to spend a Sunday morning. Rows upon rows of gorgeous blooms line the street, turning the East End into a sea of color and fresh scents.
Why it’s Special: This market is an Instagram dream. Plus, it’s only open on Sundays, so you’ll feel like you’re part of an exclusive event every time you visit.
Tips for Visiting: Get there early for the best picks at this London market. And don’t forget to pack your compact umbrella—it might just save your bouquet from a sudden downpour.
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4. Brick Lane Market
What to Buy: Street food, new & vintage fashion, unique items
Where: Brick Ln, London E1 6QR (Closest tube: Aldgate East)
When: Sat 11:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00
PS: If you are not on London during the weekend, you can still head to Brick Lane for a street art walking tour!
Brick Lane is a whole vibe. Known for its eclectic street art and renowned curry houses, this market offers everything from vintage clothes to quirky art and international street food. You never know what hidden treasures you might find!
Why it’s Special: The multicultural atmosphere and vibrant street market make Brick Lane one of the most iconic places in East London.
What to Expect: Stalls filled with unique, vintage finds, street food from around the world, and one-of-a-kind artworks.
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5. Camden Market
What to Buy: New & vintage fashion, handmade goods, unique items
Where: 54-56 Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF (Closest tubes: Camden Town or Chalk Farm Road)
When: Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00
No visit to London is complete without a trip to Camden Market. This canal-side market is famous for its alternative, bohemian vibe and a range of quirky stalls offering everything from vintage clothes to music memorabilia. It’s a dream for anyone looking for something a bit different or who just loves great second-hand shopping. For me personally it is a must-visit when I am in London!
I don’t just go for the vintage market but they also have delicious food and drink available!
Why it’s Special: Camden Market is a London institution. You’ll find plenty of unique items, from leather jackets to handmade jewelry, plus street food that ranges from classic fish and chips to gourmet hot dogs.
Don’t Miss: The Stables Market section, where you can score vintage fashion or pick up unique antiques.
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6. Portobello Road Market
What to Buy: Antiques, fashion, fruit & veg, hot food
Where: Portobello Rd, London W10 5TY (Closest tubes: Ladbroke Grove or Notting Hill Gate)
When: Mon-Wed 09:00-18:00; Thu 09:00-13:00; Fri (antiques) & Sat 09:00-19:00
Portobello Road Market is easily one of the best markets in London, and it’s the world’s largest antique market! From funky vintage clothes to fresh produce, this road market has something for everyone.
Why it’s Special: It’s famous for its antiques—seriously, there’s no better place in the city for vintage treasures. Plus, it’s featured in the classic movie Notting Hill.
Tips for Visiting: Go on a Saturday for the full experience—antiques galore and the liveliest crowd.
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7. Greenwich Market
What to Buy: Arts & crafts, fashion, jewellery, antiques & street food
Where: Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ (Closest train: Greenwich mainline)
When: Mon-Sun 10:00-17:30
Set within a World Heritage Site, Greenwich Market is one of the most charming markets in London. It’s been around since 1837, and it’s still going strong with its mix of street food stalls, arts and crafts, and antiques.
Why it’s Special: The setting is beautiful, surrounded by attractions like the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory, making it a great stop on a day of sightseeing. They are literally some of the best things to do in London!
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8. Old Spitalfields Market
What to Buy: Food & drink, clothing & accessories, antiques
Where: 16 Horner Square London, E1 6EW (Closest tubes: Liverpool Street or Aldgate East)
When: Mon-Wed & Fri 10:00-20:00; Thu 08:00-18:00; Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00
Spitalfields Market has been at the heart of London’s East End for over 350 years. Today, it’s a mix of permanent shops and rotating market stalls selling food, clothing, and vintage items. People literally come from all across London to Spitafields because it is one of the best clothes markets in London!
Spitafields is also an amazing place to get your fruit and veg.
Why it’s Special: The Thursday antiques market is a must for collectors, while the food stalls offer an impressive variety of international cuisine.
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9. Brixton Market
What to Buy: Street food, crafts, vintage clothing, general goods
Where: Electric Ave, London SW9 8JX (Closest tube: Brixton)
When: Mon-Sun 08:00-23:30
Brixton Market is bursting with personality. Located on Electric Avenue, this market reflects Brixton’s vibrant, multicultural atmosphere, with food stalls serving everything from Caribbean to African dishes.
Why it’s Special: The diversity here is incredible, and the street food vendors alone are worth the trip.
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10. Broadway Market
What to Buy: Fresh produce, vintage clothes, books, street food
Where: Hackney
When: Sat 09:00-17:00
A hipster haven, Broadway Market offers a mix of Victorian charm, street food stalls, and permanent shops selling everything from flowers to fresh produce. It might not be one of the most famous markets in London but I do love it!
Why it’s Special: It’s one of the best places in East London to spend a Saturday, with a relaxed vibe and plenty of trendy food stalls.
11. Maltby Street Market
What to Buy: Artisan food and drink
Where: Ropewalk, Bermondsey
When: Sat 10:00-17:00; Sun 11:00-16:00
This little gem is a food lover’s dream, offering everything from international street food to craft beer. Tucked away under railway arches, it’s a smaller, less touristy alternative to Borough Market. The food hall is great and the sunday upmarket is one of the best London markets there are!
Why it’s Special: It’s part of the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile, and the intimate, community vibe is a refreshing break from the larger markets.
12. Victoria Park Market
What to Buy: Seasonal produce, street food, pet treats
Where: Gore Road
When: Sun 10:00-16:00
Set in one of London’s most beautiful parks, Victoria Park Market is perfect for a relaxed Sunday outing. You’ll find everything from cheese and charcuterie to homemade cakes and street food.
Why it’s Special: It’s in a gorgeous location and has a wide variety of food stalls, plus a few extra goodies for your furry friends.
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