Interesting Markets in London

Throughout history London has been a vibrant centre for trading and commerce and the market scene continues to make up a large part of that culture. There are markets which pop up daily across the city and they can be an exciting and interesting way to spend a few hours; perhaps you may even come away with a trinket or two as a souvenir.

There are obviously the large and well known markets such as Portobello Road, Camden Market and Columbia Road Flower Market which are very popular with the tourists; each of these is well worth a visit in their own right and there is, naturally, a reason why they are so well frequented but sometimes it is nice to head off the beaten track and try out some of the other markets which London has to offer.

Camden Passage
You might be forgiven for thinking that Camden Passage was just an extension of Camden Market but actually it is located in Islington, just off Upper Street. It is known for its blend of antiques and contemporary objects and there is even a specialist book market which takes place on a Thursday and Friday too. The other main markets days are Wednesday and Saturday, 9am-6pm and Sunday, 11am-6pm. Camden Passage is the place to head if you want to browse stalls selling fashion, jewellery, vintage items and specialist antique pieces. There are also lots of delicatessens, cafes and restaurants dotted alongside the passage which make great places to pop in and consider potential purchases or rest your weary feet after a few hours spent exploring. Open since the 1950s Camden Passage continues to grow and diversify and is well worth a visit if you are looking to enjoy some retail therapy in the city.

Chapel Market

Chapel Market is a lovely local neighbourhood market which is open most days apart from Monday if you want to go along and pick up some fruit and vegetables or every day household items and cheap clothing. However it’s the Farmers Market which takes place on a Sunday that is the real draw for visitors. Locals armed with wicker baskets are in abundance here and it’s the perfect opportunity to blend in and experience an authentic trip to a London market. You could pick yourself up some bits and pieces to make a picnic and then head to one of the many parks and open spaces; Parliament Hill and Hyde Park are two of the favourites with the residents of the city at the weekend. Grab a spot, open a bottle of wine and relax. It’s the ideal way to wind up a weekend break to London.

Piccadilly Market

Piccadilly Market is held in the courtyard of St James’s Church just a stone’s throw from the bustling Piccadilly Circus. The market runs from Monday to Saturday each week and is a great place to go to pick up souvenirs or gifts for loved one; there is a whole range of objects and items on sale from arts and crafts to food and trinkets galore. By visiting the market and supporting the stall owners you are also helping to support the church as the proceeds from the market rent goes towards the cost of the upkeep of this Grade One listed church; so you can feel good about any purchases you may make. There is also an on-site cafe where you can enjoy a hot beverage and take a break from browsing and it’s also a great opportunity to take a look around the church itself which was built by Sir Christopher Wren, the architect who designed St Paul’s Cathedral after its destruction in the Great Fire of London.

Golborn Road Market

If you like the sound of the Portobello Road market but not the idea of the pressing crowds of tourists who descend here on market days then make your way to the northern end of the market, just around the corner to Golborn Road. This area is also known as London’s ‘Little Morocco’ and if you are staying at the London Premier Notting Hill you will have the perfect opportunity to arrive just as the market stalls begin to open to see the best of the wares on offer. The market does operate most days of the week but is generally a good market apart from on Fridays and Saturdays when you will also find bric-a-brac, furniture and secondhand good as well. If you are feeling brave you could then head back round into Porotbello Road to experience the atmosphere of one of London’s biggest and best markets before retreating into a nearby coffee shop for a break and some space.

Leather Lane Market

For a market which sells bargain clothing, try Leather Lane market, situated just 2 minutes walk from the Chancery Lane tube station. Although it looks a little unimpressive from the outside the great thing about Leather Lane market is you just never know what you might discover inside. It also feels a bit more authentic; as though this is what London markets have always been like, and what they should be like. It is open every day from 10am-3pm and is busiest around midday when London workers congregate here on their lunch breaks. This is itself tells you what you need to know; if it’s okay with the locals then it should be okay for tourists.

Druid Street Market

This is one of London’s newest markets, only opening in July this year. This Bermondsey Market is open every Saturday and mainly hosts stalls selling food produce, so is ideal for the foodies who want somewhere new to try. Here you will find fresh produce, creative new cuisine and street food stalls as well as plenty of special events including appearances by celebrity chefs.