Global Major Cities Guide

Street markets and indoor spaces featuring food stalls, vintage clothing, handmade goods, and artisan products.

Sections

1. Borough Market

Specialty: Food and Drink
Overview: Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, dating back over 1,000 years. It’s a haven for food lovers, offering high-quality produce, artisanal goods, and street food from around the world.
What to Buy: Fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, spices, oils, wines, and gourmet street food.
Typical Costs:
- Street food: £6–£12 per dish
- Artisanal products: £5–£20
Opening Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines)
Tips:
- Visit early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
- Bring cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
- Don’t miss the free samples offered by many stalls.

2. Camden Market

Specialty: Alternative Fashion, Vintage, and Street Food
Overview: Camden Market is a collection of markets in Camden Town, known for its eclectic mix of alternative fashion, handmade crafts, and international street food.
What to Buy: Vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, quirky home decor, and global street food.
Typical Costs:
- Clothing and accessories: £10–£50
- Street food: £5–£10 per dish
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: Camden Town (Northern Line)
Tips:
- Explore the Stables Market section for unique finds.
- Bargaining is acceptable at some stalls, especially for non-food items.
- Be prepared for crowds, particularly on weekends.

3. Portobello Road Market

Specialty: Antiques and Vintage
Overview: Located in the heart of Notting Hill, Portobello Road Market is world-famous for its antiques and vintage items. It also features fresh produce, fashion, and street food.
What to Buy: Antiques, vintage clothing, collectibles, and fresh produce.
Typical Costs:
- Antiques: £20–£200+ (depending on rarity)
- Vintage clothing: £10–£50
Opening Hours:
- Monday–Wednesday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle, and District Lines)
Tips:
- Saturday is the best day for antiques, but it’s also the busiest.
- Arrive early for the best selection and fewer crowds.
- Check out the colorful houses in the area for great photo opportunities.

4. Covent Garden Market

Specialty: Crafts, Gifts, and Entertainment
Overview: Covent Garden Market is a historic market known for its boutique shops, handmade crafts, and street performers. It’s a great spot for unique gifts and live entertainment.
What to Buy: Handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and souvenirs.
Typical Costs:
- Crafts and gifts: £10–£50
- Food and drink: £5–£15
Opening Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line)
Tips:
- Watch the street performers in the central piazza for free entertainment.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.

5. Brick Lane Market

Specialty: Vintage, Art, and Street Food
Overview: Brick Lane Market is a hub for creativity, offering vintage clothing, unique art, and a wide variety of street food. It’s located in the heart of East London’s trendy Shoreditch area.
What to Buy: Vintage clothing, second-hand books, handmade crafts, and international street food.
Typical Costs:
- Vintage clothing: £10–£40
- Street food: £5–£10 per dish
Opening Hours:
- Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (main market day)
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan Lines)
Tips:
- Combine your visit with a walk around Shoreditch to see street art.
- Bargain for vintage items, but be polite and reasonable.

6. Columbia Road Flower Market

Specialty: Flowers and Plants
Overview: This charming market is a must-visit for plant and flower enthusiasts. It’s a feast for the senses, with vibrant blooms and fragrant scents filling the air.
What to Buy: Fresh flowers, potted plants, and gardening accessories.
Typical Costs:
- Bouquets: £5–£20
- Potted plants: £5–£30
Opening Hours:
- Sunday: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
How to Get There:
- Nearest Tube Station: Hoxton (Overground) or Bethnal Green (Central Line)
Tips:
- Arrive early for the best selection or later in the day for discounts.
- Pair your visit with brunch at one of the nearby cafes.

7. Greenwich Market

Specialty: Crafts, Art, and Food
Overview: Greenwich Market is a covered market offering a mix of handmade crafts, art, and delicious food. It’s located in the historic Greenwich area, near the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory.
What to Buy: Handmade crafts, unique art, and street food.
Typical Costs:
- Crafts and art: £10–£50
- Food: £5–£10 per dish
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM–5:30 PM
How to Get There:
- Nearest DLR Station: Cutty Sark (Docklands Light Railway)
Tips:
- Explore the nearby Greenwich attractions while you’re there.
- Check the market’s website for special events and themed markets.

General Tips for Visiting London Markets:

Timing: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best selection, especially at popular markets like Borough and Portobello.
Cash vs. Card: While many vendors accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller stalls.
Weather: Many markets are outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.
Bargaining: Polite haggling is acceptable at some markets, particularly for antiques and vintage items.
Sustainability: Bring a reusable bag for your purchases and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, as markets can get crowded.

London’s markets are not just places to shop—they’re cultural experiences that reflect the city’s diversity and creativity. Whether you’re hunting for antiques, indulging in street food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s a market for everyone. Enjoy your visit!