There are lots of places to go shopping in London, but what are the must-see markets you mustn’t miss? We’ve scoured the city for the best shopping spots and picked a few of our favourites to recommend to you. From the well-known to the hidden gems, they all have so much to offer! Read on to find out which are Must-See Markets in London.
Camden Market
Possibly the most famous of all the markets in London, this artsy area has been around since 1974. It started with just 16 vendors, but has now grown to over 1000 market stalls, shops, bars and cafes. Here, you can find everything from vintage clothes, to handmade crafts and a huge variety of delicious food and drink. Go and enjoy the lively atmosphere and vibrant surroundings!
Opening hours:
- Most traders operate from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
- Some of the food halls stay open until as late as 9:00pm.
Borough Market
This covered market is widely considered to be one of the oldest in London. Trade has taken place here since Norman times, almost 1000 years ago, although the physical structure dates to the 1850s. It is also a gourmet’s paradise – this market focuses on high-quality, sustainable and local food. You can buy fresh goodies from the various kiosks to eat on-site, or purchase products to take home with you. Check out social media for the most popular stalls!
Opening hours:
- Monday: Closed.
- Tuesday–Friday: 10:00am to 5:00pm.
- Saturday: 9:00am to 5:00pm (busiest day, arrive early!).
- Sunday: 10:00am to 4:00pm.
Shōtengai Pan-Asian Market
Held once a month in the King’s Cross area, this pop-up market is truly one of London’s hidden gems. Head to Coal Drops Yard to find the street lined with tiny stalls selling pan-Asian homeware, crafts and food. They focus on independent retailers and small businesses, so any purchase you make directly supports the local community. Even better, the food is incredibly authentic and often homemade!
Opening hours:
- The pan-Asian street food market runs from Thursday to Sunday.
- The pan-Asian craft part of the market runs from Friday to Sunday.
Visit their website for information on the next monthly market dates.
Portobello Market
Making its home on Portobello Road, this is Britain’s best-known street market with a history going back 160 years. On the weekend, the shops and stalls can stretch for over a mile down the street! It’s a true treasure trove, with art pieces, clothes, rare books, jewelry, perfumes and much more to discover. Also, it’s constantly changing and evolving, so if you see something you like you’d best grab it while you can!
Opening hours:
- Monday–Sunday: 8:00am to 7:00pm.
Columbia Road Flower Market
This lush market is famous for two reasons: the variety of affordable plants, and the beauty of the surroundings! It’s one of London’s most Instagram-able spots. You can find cut flowers, dried flowers, succulents, cacti, house plants, herbs and many more plants you never knew existed. The produce on offer is seasonal, changing with the time of year to give a wonderful fresh feeling. Many of the traders are generational businesses, with families selling flowers on the market their whole lives. Go buy flowers for your friends or loved ones!
Opening hours:
- Monday–Saturday: Closed.
- Sundays: 8:00am to 3:00pm.
Seven Dials Market
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, this market is one of the tastiest in London. This is home to 20 independent vendors and 2 bars, proudly promoting local London businesses. There’s several areas to explore: hearty meals in Banana Warehouse, bites and sweet treats in Cucumber Alley, and craft ales and beers in the bars. The atmosphere is warm and lively, with live-music events and collaborations happening all the time!
Opening hours:
- Monday–Tuesday: 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
- Wednesday–Friday: 11:00am to 11:00pm.
- Saturday: 11:00am to 11:00pm.
- Sunday: 11:00am to 9:00pm.
Explore London markets and more
Thank you for reading this short guide to the Must-See Markets in London. No matter which market you go and visit, we hope that you enjoy all the food, drink and shopping that awaits you. And if you would like to explore more of England, check out some of our amazing Day Tours from London. We look forward to seeing you on tour soon!
