Explore the Best Markets in London to Visit [Updated 2023]

Suppose you're considering going to London and you're trying to figure out the best things to do to experience the city like a proper Londoner. In that case, the best way is to get a taste of the local life, and there's no better place to get started than exploring the city's enchanting markets.

Whether you're a foodie, an antique collector, or simply trying to hunt for bargains… a thrilling adventure awaits you! 

The city of London is home to some of the best markets in the world. Here are some of the best markets in London, what makes them unique, and the best time to shop there.

Top 5 Markets in London, U.K.

5. Covent Garden Market

The Covent Garden Market is one of London's most iconic and beloved markets. It has a rich history and heritage and has been around for centuries. You'll find it's also situated in a charming location. 

What's Special About Covent Garden Market? Its stunning architecture and grand interior make it a popular destination for tourists, locals, and photographers. Make sure to go with your camera!

Covent Garden Market is a perfect blend of shops and stalls that offer a wide range of products, such as gourmet foods and handmade crafts. Luxury items, vintage clothing, and many more!

The market is also famous for its creative street performers, who perform different entertaining shows throughout the day. Magicians, musicians, acrobats, and actors are doing their thing in every corner. You'll often find a small crowd immensely enjoying these entertaining activities.

You'll always find something to see and enjoy at the Covent Garden Market as you shop from stall to stall. Make sure to wear UV-protective clothing and sunscreen!

If you're a foodie, Covent Garden market is your paradise. There are many food stalls, cafés, and uppity restaurants. You'll find everything from local cuisines to international flavors... it's a food lover's haven!

Covent Garden Market also hosts many events and activities throughout the year, like live concerts, Christmas markets, art exhibitions, and many more!

Tip: you may want to go to this market hungry to make room for all the mouth-watering meals you'll find there.

4. Borough Market

Borough market is a famous food market that has existed for over 1000 years. Located in the heart of London, near iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and the London bridge, this market is a must-visit for food lovers.

Your taste buds will be deliciously seduced by the variety of sample treats locals offer shoppers. We're talking chocolates, spicy and cheesy spreads, curries, and more.

You'll also find freshly baked loaves of bread, pastries, sweets, and coffee so delicious that you wouldn't mind joining a long queue to get a cup.

You wouldn't feel any shoppers' guilt that you're spending too much money in the borough market. The prices of wares are more than fair.

In this historic market, street vendors don't work on Sundays, and not all vendors sell their wares during the week. But the market is always open.

You'll find something to enjoy in this historic market, whether you like fresh strawberries, assorted cheese, or Turkish delight.

Tip: To get the best out of this market, go on a Saturday morning by 8 am. That way, you wouldn't have to push your way through crowds, and you'll meet all the local vendors.

3. Camden Market

If you're visiting London for the first time and looking for something unique and diverse in culture, Camden Market is a great place to start.

Camden Market has a rich history that can be traced back to the 1970s, and it attracts 28 million visitors each year. Yikes! There must be a reason why everyone's coming here.

What's so special about Camden Market? The market is located along the regent's canal—a breathtaking location. It has over 1000 stalls and a mix of shops, restaurants, and cafés. The submarket known as Camden lock Market has unique stalls filled with street food vendors and local craftspeople.

Camden is famous for its unique craft and antique stalls. You will find it here whether you're looking for handmade clothes, souvenirs, jewelry, Victorian antiques, or treasures.

The market also has a variety of tasty meals. Whether vegan or not, you'll have seemingly endless food options. 

The market opens every day from 10 am to late at night. Make sure to go with sunburn protection and protective clothing. You may be doing a lot of strolls under the sun.

2. Columbia Road Flower Market

If you're a green thumb, prepare to be blown away by the beauty of this market. Columbia road flower market has been operating since the early 1800s. Located in East London, this market has a lively and bustling atmosphere.

Columbia road is transformed every Sunday into a garden of beautiful flowers and greenery. This colorful market is a great place to bury your nose in sweet-smelling flowers, get local gardening tips, and grab fresh-cut beauties to brighten your hotel room.

You can also find other wares like soap, candle sticks, gardening gear, cheese, and other exciting items. You'll also find multiple shops lining Columbia road with unique boutiques and charming cafés.

The market opens every Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm.

The Columbia road flower market is a unique and charming place. It offers a memorable experience for anyone who loves flowers, gardening, and the east end of London.

Tip: You want to go early to this market to beat the crowd and get the best blooms. If you are, however, looking for a great bargain, you can head to the market towards closing hours. Don't forget to include comfortable shoes in your packing list.

1. Bricklane Market

Another famous market located in the east end of London is Bricklane Market. The market also takes place every Sunday and attracts many people who come to browse through its various stalls and unique items.

One item Brick lane Market is famous for is its hand-painted ceramic, vintage clothing, and other ancient antiques. It has a reputation for being one of the best markets for finding unique and unusual items.

The neighborhood has an artistic vibe thanks to the beautiful street art sprawled across the walls. If you're looking for edgy gear, historical finds, and vintage clothing, you'll find that and much more in Brick lane Market.

There are also great bargains for fresh fruits, crafts, electronics, and art… the possibility of things to buy at a deal is endless!

This diverse London flea market is lined up with stalls selling everything you can think of. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm every Sunday. Whether you want to visit London alone or on vacation with friends, you'll never run out of things to do and see in the London Market.

Make the Trip!

Now that you know some of the most exciting markets in London, what makes them unique, and their opening hours, it's time to experience it in person. You can plan exciting trips to London with Pilot!