London’s food scene is one of the most diverse in the world, and there’s no better way to experience it than through its markets. From iconic institutions to tucked-away neighborhood gems, these markets bring together everything from freshly baked bread and artisan cheese to global street food and local produce. Whether you’re hungry for a quick bite or planning a full-on food crawl, these are the markets you won’t want to miss.
Borough Market
Borough Market is the gold standard of London food markets, packed with history and buzzing with energy. Set under Victorian railway arches near London Bridge, this market is home to over 100 stalls selling everything from gourmet cheese and charcuterie to international street food and handmade pastries. It’s a feast for the senses, whether you’re sipping mulled wine in winter or grabbing fresh oysters in summer, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll always find something new to try. ⇒ Read our full guide to eating in Borough Market
Spitalfields Market
Located in East London, Spitalfields blends modern style with historic charm. The food offerings here are diverse and exciting, with vendors serving up bao buns, dumplings, artisanal coffee, and inventive vegan eats. It’s not just about the food either—there’s a lively mix of independent boutiques, art displays, and cultural events that make Spitalfields a full-day destination.
Camden Market
Camden Market is one of London’s most eclectic food destinations, known for its edgy vibe and bold flavors. Wander through its maze of stalls and you’ll find cuisines from around the world, including Korean barbecue, Venezuelan arepas, and towering desserts. The canal-side location adds even more charm, making it a great place to hang out, eat well, and soak in a distinctly alternative London scene.
Maltby Street Market
Smaller and more intimate than some of the city’s larger markets, Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey is a local favorite for good reason. Tucked beneath railway arches, this weekend market has a curated selection of high-quality food vendors offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese and Ethiopian coffee to freshly baked doughnuts and small-batch gin. It’s ideal for those who want excellent food without the overwhelming crowds.
Covent Garden Market
The Covent Garden market is in the beautiful Market Building and Piazza, a charming place to walk around. There are actually three different markets in one at Covent Garden. The Apple Market sells British crafts and jewelery, East Colonnade sells handicrafts and housewares, and Jubilee market’s vendors change daily from antiques to arts and crafts. There’s also an outdoor farmers market with fresh produce. The market is open seven days a week with varying hours, which are typically 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Brick Lane Sunday Market
You may have heard about Brick Lane because it’s packed full of Indian (read: Bangladeshi) restaurants that tourists often get sucked into. Without commenting on that aspect of Brick Lane, we want to introduce you to one of the funnest places to be on a Sunday morning/afternoon. Brick Lane comes alive with dozens of junk hawkers, clothing vendors, artists, food stalls, farmer’s stands – you name it – from early in the morning until around 5 pm.
Duke of York Square Foodie Market
On Saturdays, the Duke of York Square, in Chelsea, near Sloane Square Underground Station, perks up with more than a dozen food stalls, selling everything from empanadas to falafel and sushi. It’s the place to be on a nice Saturday. You can grab a glass of bubbly and walk around being tempted by all the delicious food options, before deciding what to have. There’s not really a lot of room to sit with your food, but this is an activity! So standing is required.
Mercato Metropolitano
If you’re looking for a fun place to eat, where there are dozens of choices and all of them are worth your time, be sure to stop by the expanding Mercato Metropolitano market in the Elephant & Castle area. It’s a creative space, with the feeling of being in a funky old warehouse – it’s actually an old paper factory. The food stalls are spread out in three different areas, with plenty of seating and walking space, so it rarely feels crowded (except in the height of summer).
Brixton Village and Market Row
If you’re looking for a fun side trip from the usual London activities, definitely consider a trip to Brixton. It’s an easy ride on the Underground. When you arrive at Brixton station, you can walk out and directly into the Brixton market area and Market Row arcade. The market is filled with all kinds of goods and products, include clothing, shoes, odds and ends, and lots of International food options.
Portobello Road Market
Have you seen Love Actually? If you have, then you already know all about the Portobello Road Market. It’s a London icon thanks to that movie. The real Portobello Market is just as great as you expect it to be. The main focus of this market is antiques and there are over 1000 vendors selling all kinds of items along the road. Of course there are fantastic restaurants and bars you can slip into along the way as well. There is a small food market attached to the main Portobello market.
Whitecross Street Market
This street market caters specifically to office workers in the area, as it only operates during the weekdays, but don’t think that means visitors aren’t allowed. In fact, this is one of the best street food markets you can find operating during the day in London. It’s located between the Barbican and Old Street. There are dozens of street food stalls located along the road.
Greenwich Market
Nestled in the heart of historic Greenwich, this covered market is one of London’s most charming food spots. It’s open daily and features a rotating mix of global street food vendors offering everything from Portuguese custard tarts and Ethiopian stews to handmade dumplings and gourmet burgers. The market is surrounded by cobbled streets, independent shops, and cultural landmarks like the Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, so it’s easy to turn a visit into a full day out.
Broadway Market
Every Saturday, Broadway Market in Hackney transforms into a lively mix of local produce, baked goods, hot meals, and handmade treats. It has a laid-back neighborhood feel, with East London locals gathering for coffee, fresh sourdough, and street food from around the world. The market stretches down a charming street lined with cafes and pubs, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend outing.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.