London is a very old city.
The Romans set up here in around 49 CE with the walled town of Londinium, but it is thought that there were settlements on the banks of the Thames way before Caesar’s army turned up.
Over the following 2,000 or so years the city developed in many ways, it expanded exponentially and is now home to over 9 million people- but one thing has remained the same for a very long time.
London has always been home to wonderful markets, and there are many spread across the entire length and breadth of the city.
Some markets have been held in the same place for at least 1,000 years, maybe even longer, and others are relatively new- but they all embody the spirit and culture of London and its history.
Each market is incredibly unique, and the borough in which it is held has a major influence on the buzz of the market.
You can shop for pretty much anything you want in London’s markets, but which ones are the best?
DIscover the very best of London’s fantastic market scene by booking a room in The Montcalm At The Brewery; not only is it home to The Montcalm Restaurant, but you’ll also be able to relax safe in the knowledge that you have booked one of the best spa breaks London has to offer.
Let’s take a look at the very best markets you can explore from the comfort of your central London hotel.
Borough Market
If you’re a foodie then get ready to have the time of your life.
Borough Market has a long and illustrious history, and is without a doubt the oldest in the city.
We know for a fact that there has been a market here for at least 1,000 years, and some believe the original market was set up just after the Romans completed Londinium.
It has always been a wholesale fruit and veg market, but after a relatively recent renovation, this stunning location has become one of the best spots in the city for food.
You can still shop for stunning fruit and vegetables, sourced directly from some of the best growers in the country- but you can also shop for pretty much anything food related.
There are over 150 vendors including street food trucks, artisanal bakers, shops selling rare and incredible ingredients, pasta makers, patisserie experts and much, much more.
There is nowhere better for a foodie in the entire city, and just exploring the market without even buying anything is adventure enough.
Grab a gourmet coffee, pick up a beautiful pastry and get ready for lunch by browsing the stunning options before you.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Columbia Road is a pretty, albeit normal, street for most of the week- but on a Saturday, signs start appearing everywhere warning cars not to park in the area.
The street clears out on a Saturday evening, then come Sunday morning you will be greeted with an explosion of scent, a symphony of colour and the electric buzz of a proper market- only this time, the product being offered is flowers and plant life!
Explore this stunning market and find rare flowers from the farthest corners of the globe, purchase plants that will improve the air quality of your home, and learn about growing the most stunning tulips from some of the best growers in Europe.
There are plenty of deals to be found here and if you’re in the market for a new house plant, or a stunning bouquet, there is arguably nowhere better in the country to find one.
Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road is another place that seems pretty ordinary during the week, but come the weekend it is a snooper’s paradise.
This market takes up pretty much the entire street with over 2,000 stalls appearing on a saturday.
You’ll be able to do your groceries, pick up some great street food, peruse the bric-a-brac and enjoy the wonderful handmade jewellery and souvenirs.
But the highlight of the market is the antiques that can be found at the southern end of the street.
A cluster of local antiques stores display their wares on the street in an attempt to lure you inside, and many of the best collectors in the city exhibit their goods.
You’re sure to find a gorgeous piece, and score a great deal on something weird and wacky in this awesome market.
Camden Markets
In the 1970s Camden was essentially a disused industrial wasteland scheduled for destruction to make way for a road.
Thankfully this plan was scrapped and the area turned into a home for youth and counterculture. Bars and music venues appeared across the area, and eventually the marketplaces started to appear.
Fast forward to today, and the collection of markets has kind of melted into one sprawling market where you can find pretty much anything you could possibly imagine.
Enjoy the vintage clothing stores, shop for rare vinyl records, enjoy great food and explore the curiosities that populate the many bric-a-brac stores in the area.
You’ll find live music, street food, live performances and just a downright awesome vibe anywhere you wonder in this amazing neighbourhood.
Old Spitalfields Market
Built in 1876 to house the market that was growing in popularity but constantly hampered by the weather, this stunning example of Victorian iron work is one of the finest market buildings in the world.
The roof shelters hundreds of stalls selling a variety of goods like locally made clothing, boutique jewellery makers, vintage goods and craft masters.
There is an antiques market held here during the week and you can always find a barista made coffee and an amazing bit of street food to enjoy while you explore.
London’s Magical Markets
So there you have it, some of the most wonderful marketplaces in the city.
London has a long and in depth relationship with markets, they are a great way to experience the true buzz of London and explore some of the city’s incredible history.
Book a gorgeous room in any one of the amazing Montcalm Hotel locations in the city centre, and use your new home to explore London’s very best markets.
