The Best Markets in London: Where to Go, What to Find, and How to Get There

From world-famous spots like Borough Market to hidden gems like Maltby Street Market, this guide covers the best markets in London, including opening times, must-see highlights, and how to get there.

1. Borough Market – Best for Food Lovers

📍 Location: Southwark Street, SE1 9AL

📅 Open:

• Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 5 PM

• Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM

• Closed on Sundays

🍽️ Why Visit?
Borough Market is London’s most famous food market, offering everything from artisanal cheese and fresh seafood to international street food. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet burgers, Spanish paella, or handcrafted chocolates, this market is a paradise for food lovers.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Jubilee & Northern Lines)

• Walk: 5 minutes from London Bridge Station

🌟 Must-Try:

• Kappacasein – Famous for its grilled cheese sandwiches

• Bread Ahead Bakery – Legendary doughnuts

• Richard Haward’s Oysters – Freshly shucked oysters

2. Camden Market – Best for Alternative Fashion & Street Food

📍 Location: Camden High Street, NW1 8AF
📅 Open: Daily, 10 AM – Late

🛍️ Why Visit?
Camden Market is known for its alternative fashion, vintage shops, and international street food stalls. If you're looking for punk, goth, or indie fashion, this is the place to go. You’ll also find handcrafted jewelry, artwork, and quirky souvenirs.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: Camden Town (Northern Line)

• Walk: 2 minutes from Camden Town Station

🌟 Must-Visit Stalls & Shops:

• Cyberdog – Futuristic, neon-lit rave gear

• The Cheese Bar – Melted cheese heaven

• Chin Chin Labs – Liquid nitrogen ice cream

3. Portobello Road Market – Best for Antiques & Vintage Fashion

📍 Location: Portobello Road, W11 1LJ
📅 Open:

• Monday to Wednesday: 9 AM – 6 PM

• Thursday: 9 AM – 1 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 9 AM – 7 PM (Best day for antiques)

• Sunday: Closed

🛍️ Why Visit?
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is one of the world’s largest antique markets, with over 1,000 stalls selling vintage clothing, collectibles, and artwork. If you love thrifting or want a unique souvenir, this is the place to be.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: Notting Hill Gate (Central, District & Circle Lines)

• Walk: 10 minutes from Notting Hill Gate Station

🌟 Must-See:

• Antique stalls on Saturdays

• Alice’s Antiques – Iconic red-fronted antique shop

• The Hummingbird Bakery – Famous for cupcakes

4. Columbia Road Flower Market – Best for Fresh Flowers & Plants

📍 Location: Columbia Road, E2 7RG
📅 Open: Sunday only, 8 AM – 3 PM

🌸 Why Visit?
This charming market is a must-visit for flower lovers, offering a sea of colorful blooms, houseplants, and seasonal bouquets at bargain prices. The surrounding streets have independent boutiques, cafés, and art galleries, making it a great place for a Sunday stroll.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: Hoxton (Overground)

• Bus: 26, 48, 55, 388

🌟 Pro Tip:
Arrive early for the best selection, or visit after 2 PM for discounts when vendors lower prices to clear stock.

5. Old Spitalfields Market – Best for Art, Fashion & Crafts

📍 Location: 16 Horner Square, E1 6EW
📅 Open:

• Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM

• Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM

🎨 Why Visit?
A mix of vintage fashion, handmade crafts, independent designers, and street food, Old Spitalfields Market is a trendy spot for those looking for unique fashion pieces or gifts.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan Lines)

• Walk: 5 minutes from Liverpool Street Station

🌟 Best Stalls:

• Collectif Clothing – Retro & vintage-inspired fashion

• Flying Dutchman Prints – Unique art prints

• Dumpling Shack – Delicious dumplings

6. Maltby Street Market – Best for a Local Foodie Experience

📍 Location: Ropewalk, SE1 3PA
📅 Open:

• Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM

• Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM

🥘 Why Visit?
Less touristy than Borough Market, Maltby Street Market is a hidden gem in Bermondsey known for high-quality food and craft drinks. It’s a local favourite for weekend brunch and street food.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest Tube: London Bridge (Jubilee & Northern Lines)

• Walk: 10 minutes from London Bridge Station

🌟 Must-Try:

• The Cheese Truck – Grilled cheese heaven

• St. John Bakery – Famous custard doughnuts

• Little Bird Gin – Great for a weekend cocktail

7. Greenwich Market – Best for Arts, Crafts & Street Food

📍 Location: Greenwich, SE10 9HZ
📅 Open: Daily, 10 AM – 5:30 PM

🎭 Why Visit?
Greenwich Market is known for its handmade crafts, vintage finds, and global street food. It’s also close to Greenwich Park, the Cutty Sark, and the Royal Observatory, making it perfect for a full day out.

🚇 How to Get There:

• Nearest DLR: Cutty Sark (Docklands Light Railway)

• Train: Greenwich Station from London Bridge

🌟 What to Look For:

• Handmade jewelry & artisan crafts

• Global street food stalls

• Independent fashion designers

London’s markets are as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from high-end artisanal foods to budget-friendly vintage treasures. Whether you’re a foodie, fashion lover, or just love exploring local culture, there’s a market waiting for you.