Top London Markets
Everyone loves a deal, and we don’t know anyone who doesn’t like browsing around markets to get some fabulous alternative clothing, trying out tasty international food and treats, and checking out the craftworks, jewellery, toys, and canvases amongst the many other things you can find at these exciting places. As you can imagine the markets in London are exceptional as they are large and offer a wide range of different and alternative products at some unbeatable prices. So, here are not three but five of the best markets in the British capital where you can go and search for some fabulous gift ideas for your loved ones and soak up the bohemian and cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city of London.
Camden and Camden Lock Market
Without a doubt one of the best and largest open-air and indoor markets in London with quite a bohemian feel and home to the best alternative clothes shops and stalls in the city with Burlesque, Goth, Punk, 50s, Rockabilly, Pyschobilly, and Hippy/ Ethnic clothing, amongst others on offer. In the way of arts and crafts this Camden Market and lock offers a unique experience with articles from all over the world such as jewellery, paintings, sculpture, ceramics, woodwork and art objects from Africa, Spain, Japan, India, the South Seas and France, as well as tribu body adornments full of nose and ear jewellery in bone etc. In addition, just like any good market there are of course a wide variety of food stalls selling international cuisine if you get hungry, and finally if you get thirsty on your wanderings you can just nip into one of the many pubs and bars distributed around the area for an authentic British pint. There are five markets all in all here not including those stalls on the street, which you can check out on their official website for opening dates and times.
Portobello Market
This world famous Portobello Market running through the trendy area of Notting Hill is a popular destination for tourist and locals alike. This market in London occupies most of Portobello Road stretching over approximately two miles and is divided into several sections. There is an antiques section, fruit and veg stalls, fashion market, new goods stalls, second hand goods stalls, and of course hot food, and lunch and snacks stalls if you get hungry on your wanderings. Thus, visitors can expect to find antiques, jewellery, bric-a-brac, vintage clothing and accessories, costume jewellery, second hand clothing, shoes, all sorts of second hand goods, and finally fresh fruit and vegetable stalls, as well as the smattering of bread, fish, French cheese, and cake stalls there. Yum! Getting there early to avoid the crowds is advisable so check out the website for more information on opening times and the stalls on offer.
Greenwich Market
Another fabulous addition to our London markets list is Greenwich Market with traders showcases selling handmade bags and purses for all occasions, as well as food-to-go, arts and crafts, homeware, and antiques and collectables, amongst many other articles on offer. Finally, if you fancy it you can do a spot of tourism and check out Maritime Greenwich which attracts two million visitors every year who come to admire the magnificent views, architecture, history, and atmosphere that led UNESCO to award it World Heritage Site Status in 1997.
Borough Market
A definite stop-off for all you foodies out there as the London Borough food market is the place to visit for artisan food products, patisserie and confectionary sweets and treats, traditional breads using techniques from home and abroad, cheese from all over the UK and Europe made by expert cheesemakers, fish and seafood stalls particularly impressive for the remarkable quality and impressive variety of products on offer, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat stalls, international food stalls, and finally for its abundant array of cafés, bars, and restaurants. Because, food shopping is a tiring business especially wandering around all these mazy stalls and walkways. So, if you’re hungry check out their official website and head down to the Borough food market. Bon Appétit!
Spitalfields Markets
Another fabulous suggestion is Spitalfield Market comprising one of the oldest in London and a combination of cutting edge fashion and interiors, original artworks, and food in a traditional market setting. There can be up to 110 stalls there thus you are guaranteed to find everything you need (or want) from vintage fashion, and music, to bespoke children’s toys, jewellery and accessories, home interiors, and affordable original artworks. In addition, this market in London is also surrounded by a host of independent boutiques, food shops, and restaurants.
Brick Lane Market
Brick Lane Market open on Sundays is also located nearby. It attracts many young Londoners who go there in search of second-hand furniture, unusual clothes, and bric-a-brac, plus it’s a great place to go to for an inexpensive Sunday lunch in one of the many ethnic restaurants and cafes lining the street. The great thing about this market is that you never know what you will find in it.
Which are your favourite markets in London?
