I am so looking forward to markets opening again. They are such a vibrant part of London life and I have really missed spending my weekends exploring new areas and eating delicious food. This past year has been so hard on the food and hospitality industries. It has been amazing to see how so many of these small traders have adapted, but I am more than ready to do business in person. **Due to lockdown restrictions some of these markets are partially open for takeaway, but by and large they are closed until April 12th 2021**Camden Market- Camden is a popular place for tourists and locals alike. It is a great place to grab some lunch and explore. There are lovely walks from here along the canal. You can’t go wrong with your food options here but some fun places to try are Cafe de Nata, Yorkshire Burrito, Chin Chin Labs, Baba G’s BurgersNetil Market- This east London market is street food paradise. Some favourite are Bao Bar , The Treats Club, and The Bagel Guys you are sure to find something delicious. They also have traders selling art and homegoods.Columbia Road Flower Market- A plant lovers paradise pops up on Columbia Road every Sunday. There are also dozens of little homewares shops, and cute cafes to stop by. Some favourites are Bob & Blossom, Pavilion Bakery , Lily Vanili , In Bloom, and Mason & Painter.Portobello Road Market - This iconic weekend market can get busy, but if you are looking for antiques, or vintage clothing, it can be worth the crowds. There is lots of delicious food, as well as colourful shops, and delicious bakeries. Check out my Notting Hill Guide for my recommendations. Covent Garden Market- This centrally located market can feel a bit touristy at times, but it is still enjoyable to explore. There are lots of shops and restaurants as well as theatres, museums, and galleries. Seven Dials Market- A relatively new food market with over a dozen different stalls serving up a multicultural assortment of food. A great place to grab dinner before heading to a west end show. Spitalfields Market- One of London’s oldest markets that always has new things popping up. There are arts and craft stalls, as well as clothing and homeware. There are also shops and restaurants as well as street food. Some of my favourites are Brothers Marcus and Rainbo. Leadenhall Market- Dating back to the 14th century, this market is worth visiting for the history alone. The architecture here is beautiful, and there are a handful of sit down restaurants. Be sure to stop by Aux Merveilleux de Fred for their dreamy chocolate brioche.Canopy Market- This Kings Cross Market has a mix of everything. Art, food, homewares, and clothes. After checking out the market you should explore the area. There is a charming bookshop on a boat called Word on the Water, as well as Coal Drops Yard which has its own collection of shops and restaurants. Brick Lane Market- There are a lot of different markets that pop up on Brick Lane, but two that are especially great are Sunday Upmarket and the Backyard Market. Borough market- at over 1000’s years old it is London’s oldest market. A visit to Borough is a must for any food lover. From produce to freshly cooked street food, desserts, to artisan patisserie. I highly recommend getting a doughnut from Bread Ahead, but as for other food, you’ll just have to see what speaks to you... everything is delicious. Southbank Food Market - Located just behind the southbank centre and moments away from the Thames, this market is the perfect place to stop for some lunch or a treat. Some favourites are Chocofruit, Crepes al a Carte , and Horn OK Please.Duke of York Market- This Chelsea market is charming and full of delicious food. Located between The Saatchi Gallery and Partridges, it is a lovely place to stop for lunch, or a treat or two. Maltby Street Market- Serving up artisan street food at the weekends. It will be hard to pick as everything always looks delicious, Things to consider trying are the fries from The Beefsteaks, The Cheese Truck, Canelé from Babelle, The Gyoza Guys, The Salted Caramel chocolate Kuma (Bear) Cream Pan from Gu Choki Pan.Spa Terminus Market- A small, but excellent, selection of traders open every Saturday morning. Ice Cream Union , England Preserves, Husk and Honey, and Little Bread Pedlar are all worth a visit. Greenwich Market- This small but vibrant market is always a pleasure to walk through. There is a great mixture of food, arts and crafts, and lifestyle stalls. It is a great place to pick up lunch for a picnic in the park or weekend treats.
