Food, fashion, antiques, flowers, collectibles when it comes to markets London has it all. With some open every day and some opening at the weekends, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a spot for a little shopping or a bite to eat. Although we all know Portobello, Brixton, and Camden markets (all absolutely great) these are my favourite London markets, all perfect for a fun family day out.
Pro tip: We’ve also identified family friendly activities near each of these markets in our Traveling with Toddlers London Destination Guide.
Borough Market
Located in central London, just around the corner from Southwark Cathedral, Borough Market is the perfect spot for a bite to eat and the oldest food market in London with its 250-year history. Open Monday to Saturday between 10 am and 6 pm, it’s the top market to buy freshly baked bread and cakes, street food but also top-quality meat, fruit, veggies and so much more. Make sure to stop by and pick up a tasty treat to enjoy sitting by the Thames.
Location: 8 Southwark, London, SE1 1TL
Old Spitalfields Market
If fashion is what you are looking for, then this is the place for you. One of the few markets opened every day of the week, this covered market in East London has the biggest variety of cutting-edge fashion brands, accessories, independent boutiques, and designer brands London has to offer. Make sure to stop by on a Thursday and check out the antique stalls. Located just a few minutes from Liverpool Street station and only a 5-minute walk away from Brick Lane is the perfect shopping hub for any fashion lovers.
Don’t forget to check out the amazing independent eateries too.
Location: 16 Commercial St, London, E1 6EW
Brick Lane Market
Although the shops and restaurants are opened every day, the best day to visit is always on a Sunday, when Brick Lane becomes the coolest street market in London. The jungle of stalls that sells anything from bric-a-brac to clothes, to vintage and household furniture. Whatever it is you are looking for, you are sure to find it in Brick Lane.
Foodie and artists this is your market too with plenty of street food to choose from and street art to admire.
Location: Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL
Greenwich Market
This eighteenth-century covered market is the best place to pick up a unique gift or some delicious street food to enjoy at the nearby gorgeous Greenwich Park. Here you can find anything from jewellery, clothes, and antiques. Although open every day the best time to visit is between Wednesday and Sunday when the market fills up with stalls of any kind.
During your visit don’t forget that Greenwich is also the home of the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory and the landmark of the famous Greenwich Meridian Line all worth a visit.
Location: 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
Columbia Road Flower Market
If you, like me, love flowers, then you must stop at this picturesque market at least once when visiting London. The market is only open on Sunday mornings roughly between 8:00 and 15:00 but if you want the best pick of the bunch then you need to make sure to be there early.
Once you have purchased your favourite blooms or bagged a bargain at the end of trade hours, make sure to check out some of the independent shops and cafes that surround the market.
This is the perfect market for some great Insta shots!!!
Location: Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG
For everything you need to prepare for your next family trip, be sure to check out our London Destination Guide.
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