Unmissable Markets – Your Ultimate London Markets Guide

Looking to shop, snack and soak up London like a local? Check our London Markets Guide.

Welcome readers to the vibrant world of London’s markets—where centuries-old trading halls meet street food revolutions. Whether you’re a vintage treasure hunter, foodie explorer, or curious first-time visitor, this London Markets Guide highlights 5 must-see markets that show off the capital’s diversity from East to West.

Why Camden Lock Still Rocks?

Let’s be real—yes, Camden Market is a magnet for tourists, but trust us, it’s so much more than that. Think of it as London’s rebellious, artsy cousin who always knows where the best street food is. It’s chaotic, creative, and full of character—just the way we like it.

If you’re planning your first (or fifth) London adventure, this stop on our London Markets Guide is a must. From cobbled lanes to riverside canals, here’s how to make the most of Camden Market.

Why Visit Camden Market?

At its core, Camden is about energy. It’s where punk met vintage, where goths share benches with hipsters, and where world cuisine is cooked in tiny stalls by passionate foodies.

What makes Camden special:

• A collection of several markets: Camden Lock, Stables Market, Buck Street Market, and more
• A haven for alternative fashion, handmade goods, and music memorabilia
• Incredible variety of street food from Caribbean to Korean BBQ
• Live music, tattoo parlours, and riverside vibes

No matter your vibe, you’ll find a corner of Camden that feels made just for you.

What to Shop For

• Vintage & Thrift Fashion: Leather jackets, retro tees, platform boots
• Handmade Jewellery & Art: Original pieces you won’t find on the high street
• Vinyl Records & Collectibles: Ideal for music fans and nostalgic souls
• Homeware & Gifts: Think incense, crystals, artisan soaps, and quirky home decor

Insider Tip: Don’t rush. Camden is meant to be browsed, not blitzed. Allow a few hours and explore the nooks and crannies.

Where to Eat & Drink

Camden is a street food paradise. You could come just for the eats and leave happy.

Must-try food stalls:

• Only Jerkin’: Crispy Caribbean fried chicken with rum punch glaze
• The Mac Factory: Gourmet mac & cheese with truffle oil and crispy bacon
• Magic Falafel: Middle Eastern perfection
• Vegan Junk Food Bar: Bright, bold, plant-based indulgence
• Chin Chin: Liquid nitrogen ice cream with wildly inventive flavours.

Places to grab a drink:

• The Camden Assembly: Rooftop cocktails and DJ nights
• Spiritual Caipirinha Bar: Funky cocktails in a tiny corner bar
• Lockside Camden: Chilled drinks overlooking the canal

Hidden Gems & Cool Spots

• Camden Catacombs: Tucked beneath the Stables Market, only accessible on select tours
• Cyberdog: A neon-lit ravewear shop meets sensory overload—don’t miss it
• Camden Lock Canal Walk: Stroll toward Regent’s Park and Little Venice for quieter views
• Amy Winehouse Statue: A touching tribute to Camden’s soulful icon

Camden Market doesn’t pretend to be polished—and that’s its charm. It’s the real, vibrant, ever-evolving soul of North London. Whether you’re sipping a mango lassi by the canal, dancing to a street performer’s beat, or hunting for vintage treasures, Camden will surprise and delight at every turn.

Brick Lane: A Story Served with Spice

Wandering down Brick Lane feels like flipping through the pages of London’s multicultural cookbook. Once home to French Huguenot silk weavers, then a bustling hub for the Jewish community, it’s now the heart of London’s Bangladeshi scene—famed for its irresistible curry houses and vibrant street art.

There’s a certain charm here that’s hard to put into words. You’ll pass vintage shops, bagel bakeries, masala-scented cafés, and hear the city’s rich history echoing through every bite and brick. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new, tradition and trend. If you’re craving a side of culture with your Sunday market stroll (and maybe a samosa or two), this is your spot.

Part of our curated London Markets Guide, Brick Lane offers one of the city’s most colourful and flavour-packed market scenes. Sundays are when the street truly comes alive with traders, artists, musicians, and the enticing scent of international street food.

Why Visit Brick Lane Market?

Whether you’re a street food enthusiast, vintage fashion hunter, or art lover, Brick Lane is a sensory playground. It’s not just a market—it’s a movement.

What makes Brick Lane Market unique:

• A fusion of cultures, cuisines, and communities
• Pop-up vintage, handmade crafts, and food every Sunday
• A street art hotspot with work from icons like Banksy and Stik
• Famous curry houses and two legendary bagel bakeries open 24/7

What to Shop For

• Vintage Clothing: Retro denim, leather jackets, old-school trainers
• Handmade Jewellery & Crafts: Local makers and unique gifts
• Art & Antiques: Prints, posters, rare finds
• Global Snacks & Treats: You’ll need cash and a loose waistband

Dive into the Old Truman Brewery for hidden indoor markets, including UpMarket and Backyard Market, full of art, fashion, and fresh eats.

Where to Eat & Drink

Brick Lane is street food heaven, with spicy, sweet, and savoury options from across the globe.

Must-try eats:

• Beigel Bake: Salt beef bagels with mustard & pickles
• Aladin Brick Lane: Iconic curry house with rich Bengali flavours
• Mooshies: Vegan burgers that even meat-lovers rave about
• Dark Sugars: Luxury African-inspired chocolates and photogenic hot cocoa

Where to grab a drink:

• Big Chill Brick Lane: Rooftop cocktails and live DJs
• The Pride of Spitalfields: Classic local pub with a homely vibe
• Café 1001: Coffee by day, beats by night

Hidden Gems & Cool Spots

• Brick Lane Bookshop: Independent, much-loved, with a superb London section
• Street Art Tours: Discover pieces by world-famous and local artists
• Sunday UpMarket: Artisan traders, world food stalls, and quirky finds
• Backyard Market: More chilled, creative, and less crowded

More Markets Nearby

• Spitalfields Market: Boutique fashion, lifestyle goods, and gourmet eats
• Columbia Road Flower Market: Nearby Sunday market with serious bloom power

If you’re after a market with depth, diversity, and deliciousness, Brick Lane delivers. From spice-filled air to walls bursting with creativity, this East End icon keeps reinventing itself—without losing its roots.

Covent Garden Market – Timeless Charm in the Heart of London

If London had a charm school, Covent Garden would be the top of the class. Set in the city’s buzzing West End, it’s a lively blend of cobbled piazzas, boutique shops, opera arias, and creative street performers that make even a simple coffee feel magical.

Part of our curated London Markets Guide, Covent Garden Market offers more than just retail therapy. With its rich heritage, elegant architecture, and vibrant energy, it’s a must for first-time visitors and returning explorers alike.

Why Visit Covent Garden Market?

Perfect for those who love a mix of heritage and modern buzz, Covent Garden is more than a market—it’s a full sensory experience.

Why it stands out:

• Historic market arcades with artisan crafts and antiques
• High-end boutiques and quirky indie shops
• Daily live performances in the main piazza
• A mix of gourmet dining and street food favourites

You don’t just shop here—you linger, you listen, and you discover.

What to Shop For

Whether you’re after handcrafted souvenirs or designer gifts, Covent Garden delivers with style.

• Apple Market: Handmade jewellery, original art, and vintage trinkets
• Jubilee Market: Antiques on Mondays, general market goods the rest of the week
• Pineapple Dancewear & Moomin Shop: Quirky, one-of-a-kind finds
• Designer Stores: From Chanel and Mulberry to Charlotte Tilbury

Best to visit in the morning to browse peacefully before the midday crowds roll in.

Where to Eat & Drink

Food options in Covent Garden range from casual bites to fine dining.

Must-try spots:

• Buns & Buns: International buns with flair (think truffle pork belly)
• Chez Antoinette: Charming French café with tartines and wine
• Milk Train: Insta-famous soft-serve surrounded by candy floss
• The Oystermen: Chic seafood and natural wines

Grab a drink at:

• The Crusting Pipe: Wine bar tucked under the arches with live classical music
• The Alchemist: Cocktail theatrics near the Piazza

Hidden Gems & Cool Spots

• Neal’s Yard: A rainbow-coloured courtyard filled with health food shops and cafés
• London Transport Museum: Fascinating and family-friendly
• St. Paul’s Church (The Actor’s Church): Quiet gardens and theatre history
• Punch & Judy Pub: Traditional pub overlooking the piazza

Covent Garden Market is a perfect harmony of old and new—where you can watch a world-class violinist perform beside a mime artist, shop artisan soaps one minute and sip champagne the next. Whether you’re browsing antiques or catching a West End show, Covent Garden is a London moment you’ll want to linger in.

Use our London Markets Guide to plan your ultimate market adventure across the city’s most iconic and underrated spots.

Borough Market – London’s Gourmet Paradise by the Thames

There’s something utterly magical about Borough Market. Nestled in the heart of Southwark, this historic gem has been feeding Londoners for over 1,000 years! But it’s not just a market; it’s a feast for the senses. Wander under its grand Victorian arches and you’ll find a mouth-watering medley of global flavours—artisan cheeses, sizzling street food, fine wines, and freshly baked everything. The energy is infectious, the smells are irresistible, and the setting? A charming blend of old-world character and foodie flair. It’s no wonder travellers are drawn here—whether you’re a culinary connoisseur or simply love soaking up local vibes, Borough Market delivers in spades.

Why Visit Borough Market?

As one of the most iconic food destinations in the UK, Borough Market blends tradition with innovation. With its roots tracing back to the 11th century, it remains a community-led market with a strong focus on sustainability and quality.

Why it stands out:

• Historic setting with vibrant atmosphere
• Unmatched range of artisan products
• Ethical sourcing and sustainable food culture
• A mix of grab-and-go eats and fine ingredients

Whether you’re hunting for rare spices, organic produce, or gourmet street food, you’ll find it here.

What to Eat & Drink

Come hungry—Borough Market is built for grazing and tasting your way through the world.

Must-try food stalls:

• Kappacasein: The world-famous grilled cheese sandwich
• Padella: Handmade pasta that’s worth the queue
• Horn OK Please: Indian street food with a twist
• Bread Ahead: Famed for pillowy doughnuts and baking school
• Raclette Brothers: Melted Alpine cheese over potatoes or steak

Drinks & sweet bites:

• Monmouth Coffee: Beloved for its bold, fresh brews
• Turnips Bar: Veg-focused cocktails in a market setting
• Furness Fish & Game: Oysters with fizz by the dozen
• Ginger Pig: Traditional pies, Scotch eggs, and rare cuts

What to Shop For

More than just a food stop, Borough Market is ideal for picking up foodie souvenirs or gourmet staples.

• Neal’s Yard Dairy: Unmissable for British and Irish farmhouse cheeses
• Cannon & Cannon: Specialists in British cured meats
• Spice Mountain: Exotic herbs and spices from around the globe
• The Olive Oil Co.: Mediterranean oils and vinegars

Go early on weekday mornings for a quieter, more relaxed browse.

Hidden Gems & Local Favourites

• Green Market: A quieter corner with artisanal stalls
• Maria’s Market Café: A Southwark institution for a proper fry-up
• The Market Porter: Cask ales and cosy pub vibes
• Roast To Go: Legendary roast meat sandwiches beneath the market hall

Nearby Attractions

• Southwark Cathedral: Just next door, a peaceful gothic escape
• The Shard: Views from London’s tallest building
• Golden Hinde: A replica Tudor ship moored nearby
• Tate Modern & Shakespeare’s Globe: A scenic walk along the Thames

Whether you’re sipping a single-origin espresso, munching on raclette toasties, or chatting with a cheesemonger, Borough Market offers a flavour-packed slice of London life. It’s where heritage meets modern taste and locals blend with travellers—all in one delicious setting.

Greenwich Market: Timeless Charm, Tasty Finds 

Tucked away in the heart of maritime London, Greenwich Market is that rare gem where history and hip vibes go hand in hand. This 19th-century covered market isn’t just pretty—it’s practically a time capsule, with cobbled lanes, quirky art stalls, and a mouth-watering lineup of global street food. One moment you’re browsing handcrafted jewellery, the next you’re nibbling on gourmet empanadas or a cheeky slice of cake from a local baker.

And with the Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory, and Thames riverside just steps away, it’s the perfect place for a slow Sunday wander. It’s no wonder savvy travellers are falling in love with this charming corner of London.

Planning your next adventure? Our London Markets Guide is packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and delicious discoveries to elevate your London getaway.

Why Visit Greenwich Market?

Greenwich Market blends heritage, creativity, and community spirit all under one elegant roof. Set in a World Heritage Site, it has a distinctly local vibe—even as it welcomes visitors from around the world.

Why it’s worth a visit:

• Open 7 days a week, rain or shine
• Diverse range of artisan and handmade goods
• Delicious street food from every continent
• Located near some of London’s most iconic landmarks

Whether you’re after a one-of-a-kind gift or just a good bite, Greenwich delivers.

What to Eat & Drink

Greenwich Market is a global picnic. Come hungry and bring your curiosity.

Must-try bites:

• Argentina Empanadas: Crispy, hearty, and packed with flavour
• Loving Hut Vegan Burgers: Plant-based with big flavour
• Doughlicious: Fresh, gooey cookies for your sweet fix
• Cafe Pique-Nique: French-inspired pastries and coffee
• The Honest Carrot: Wholesome vegetarian wraps and salads

Nearby cafes & pubs:

• Greenwich Grind: Coffee and cocktails in a stylish setting
• The Gipsy Moth: A cosy pub next to the Cutty Sark
• Heap’s Sausages: Artisan sausage rolls and hearty breakfasts

What to Shop For

Greenwich Market is a haven for independent makers, artists, and collectors.

Top picks:

• Handcrafted jewellery: Unique, locally made pieces
• Vintage prints & maps: Ideal souvenirs or decor
• Organic skincare: Natural beauty from small UK brands
• Home decor & gifts: From candles to quirky wall art
• Fashion & accessories: Boutique clothing and handmade bags

Insider Tip: Weekends are livelier, but weekdays offer quieter browsing.

Hidden Gems & Market Favourites

• Fan Museum: A niche but fascinating museum just around the corner
• Clocktower Market (weekends): Antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds
• Jubilee Green: A quiet riverside spot to enjoy your market lunch
• Greenwich Book Time: A stall stacked with second-hand treasures

Nearby Attractions

Greenwich Market is perfectly placed for a full day of exploring.

• Cutty Sark: Step aboard the iconic tea clipper
• Royal Observatory: Stand on the Prime Meridian Line
• Old Royal Naval College: Don’t miss the Painted Hall
• Greenwich Park: Views, deer, and secret gardens
• Thames Clippers Uber Boat: Arrive or leave in style via river

Whether you’re seeking culture, cuisine, or just a charming place to wander, Greenwich Market delivers a well-balanced mix of the old and new. It’s family-friendly, foodie-approved, and full of unexpected delights. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a riverside stroll or a museum visit.tory and a few ghost stories of their own.

Other Useful Links to Visit Greenwich Hidden Gems

Here are more links to support your visit to London and beyond. These are services we have actually used with good reliable service. Some are our affiliate partners where we may receive commission but it will be at no extra cost to you.

1. Planning London Underground (Tube) journey: London Transport Route Planner
2. Travel with Contactless (Credit Card) or Oyster card: Contactless or Oyster card
3. Uber boat fares and information: Uber boat by Thames clipper
4. Planning short trips from London to the rest of the country: Book Your Train Tickets at Trainline.com
5. Best value budget hotel at great locations: Premier Inn for London and UK

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