7 Memorable London Markets You've Got to Visit at Least Once ...

This tops my list as it is one of the best London markets in terms of food and general produce available. There is always a new item being promoted each week and there’s so much on offer (both locally and internationally-speaking). Chefs, gastronomers and people that love to eat (and drink) visit simply for inspiration or to chat with the local food vendors. Borough Market is located in South London at 8 Southwark Street and the nearest tube station is London Bridge.

If you’re visiting the World Heritage Site of Greenwich, make sure to stop off at the market area, regarded as one of London’s best covered markets. With over 120 stalls – filled with antiques, handmade crafts, food and artistically designed items – you can be sure you’ll find something. The selection of global street food changes daily and they have some great pubs as well as casual bar supper restaurants in and around the area, perfect if you want to dine with a view of the River Thames. Greenwich Market is located on Romney Road and there are numerous ways to reach this market, including via cable car!

I can’t leave this off the list, as Camden is on every tourist’s itinerary! Camden Market has been operating for about thirty years and it is huge. It has become famous for its clothing, but you can find more general items (crafts, flowers, food stalls, alternative jewelry, etc.). It spans the High Street of Camden and there is also the Camden Lock Village Market, which you can’t help but meander around if you’re close to Camden Lock. Camden Market is located at Camden High Street and the nearest tube station is Camden Town.

A tiny market, located off Piccadilly Street in central London, set in the courtyard of St. James’s Church. Famous for its eclectic array of arts, crafts and on-site café, there’s plenty to browse and it makes a perfect market to buy that special gift for your loved one. Go on Monday if you want to sample the food market. An interesting fact: the Church was designed by Sir Christopher Wren, the same architect that designed St. Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London! Located at 197 Piccadilly, the nearest tube station is Piccadilly Circus.

The first Covent Garden Market opened in 1654 and has remained a market area throughout the ages. Covent Garden’s Market comprises four markets – Apple, East Colonnade, Jubilee and Real Food. It’s pedestrian-friendly, so you’ll find yourself walking around cobbled streets and locating secret passages, as cars are prohibited in the vicinity. There is a great shopping district nearby as well as Neal’s Yard, but you’ll likely be consumed by all the great imaginative artwork and handmade jewelry on offer, that you may not get there. Located at the end of James Street (near the Royal Opera House), the closest tube station is Covent Garden.

I worked at an organic food stall in Old Spitalfields when I lived in London and loved both the vibe and crowds that frequented! What this market was like during Victorian times and what it has become today are two different things! It’s no longer considered a destination to visit on Sunday, and it really has expanded, offering great London fashion designers’ items every Saturday and some interesting goods every other day of the week. Located on Brushfield Street, the nearest tube station is Liverpool Street and the trendy spot of Shoreditch isn’t too far away.

Portobello Road Market is another uniquely famous market in West London. It can take time to walk the two miles from end to end through the Notting Hill area, especially on a crowded Saturday. There are five distinct sections: antiques, fruits and vegetables, new goods, fashion and second-hand goods. Portobello’s at its most happening at the end of August when the Notting Hill Carnival occurs. The closest tube station is Notting Hill Gate and it’s a five minute walk from there, just follow the crowds!

There are at least twenty markets worth seeing in and around central London, so this list is just a drop in the ocean. Still, I hope you get to visit some of these markets when you’re next in the capital. Which London markets have you been to?