The Best Markets in London, From Food to Vintage: Where to Go and When
London is home to some of the best markets in the world. Whether you’re looking for antiques, street food, flowers, or vintage fashion, the city’s markets are where you should be. They’re also some of the most enjoyable places to spend a few hours, especially if you want to experience a more local side of London.
Here’s a list of the best street markets in London, including opening days and hours.
Portobello Road Market (Notting Hill)
If there’s one market you make time for, it should be the Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. If you’ve ever seen the movie you’ll definitely recognize the colorful row houses in the neighborhood. Famous for its antiques (I spent entirely too much time looking at vintage watches), it also has food stalls, fashion boutiques, and everyday items depending on the day of the week.
Monday to Wednesday: General goods and produce, 9 a.m – 6 p.m.
Thursday: Half-day, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: Full market with antiques, food, vintage, etc. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday: Smaller vintage market under Portobello Green canopy, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday is the busiest and most popular day, especially for antiques. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, Fridays are a good choice with plenty of stalls still open. Shops and cafes along the road are open throughout the week, so even outside market hours, it’s worth a visit.
Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market sits in London’s West End and is a must-visit for anyone who loves shopping, art, and a nice atmosphere. Once a traditional fruit and vegetable market; it’s now filled with local crafts, handmade goods, and boutique stalls. You’ll also find street performers, cafes, and some of London’s most iconic shops surrounding the main piazza.
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Covent Garden actually has three markets within its central courtyard:
Apple Market: Unique crafts, art, and handmade jewelry (open daily).
East Colonnade Market: Independent makers and artisan goods.
Jubilee Market: Antiques on Mondays, general goods Tuesday to Friday, arts and crafts on weekends.
This area is ideal if you like discovering boutique items in an aesthetic, covered setting. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s a great place to enjoy coffee, people-watch, and take pictures.
Borough Market
If you love food, Borough Market is unmissable. It’s one of the oldest and most famous food markets in London, known for its variety of fresh produce, baked goods, international cuisine, and speciality treats. The market sits beneath the railway arches near London Bridge, giving it a cool vibe that makes it a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Closed on Mondays.
It’s best to visit mid-morning when the market is buzzing but not too crowded. Be sure to bring cash, as not every stall takes cards, and come hungry. there’s everything from gourmet cheese and pastries to street food from around the world.
Pro tip: This is where you’ll find the famous chocolate covered fresh strawberries. Its also home to great coffee stands and the best sandwich I’ve ever had! (it’s fittingly named “the best one” and you can find it at The Black Pig, towards the back of the market)
Camden Market
Camden Market is one of London’s largest and best-known markets. It’s made up of several connected markets, with stalls and shops selling everything from reworked vintage clothes and jewelry to international street food vendors. Even when the market is not technically open, this is a fun area for dinner and early nightlife!
Open daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Weekends are the most lively, with the full range of stalls open and the busiest crowds.
If you’re looking for unique finds, Camden is the place to go.
Columbia Road Flower Market
If flowers are your thing, head to Columbia Road Market in East London. Every Sunday, this narrow street transforms into a colorful market full of florists and house plant sellers.
Sunday only, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Even if you don’t plan on taking home a bouquet, the atmosphere is worth seeing. There are also plenty of small shops and cafes in the area to explore as well.
Brick Lane Market
Brick Lane Market in Shoreditch is one of the best spots for vintage clothing, records, furniture, and secondhand goods. Along with shopping, you’ll also find great street food.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m
Many shops and stalls are also open on weekdays, typically 11:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
This East London market has a creative atmosphere and is perfect for those looking for something one-of-a-kind. Unfortunately I was too busy shopping to remember to take many pictures here…
Seven Dials Market
If you love modern food halls and international eats, Seven Dials Market is for you. Between Covent Garden and Soho, this indoor market brings together some of the city’s best food vendors under one roof. You can expect creative, high-quality dishes (even a charcuterie conveyor belt), and a lively atmosphere.
Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Housed inside a restored banana warehouse, Seven Dials Market is divided into two main sections. The Cucumber Alley focuses on quick bites and street food, while The Banana Warehouse has sit-down dining and bars. From fresh pasta and bao buns to desserts and craft cocktails, there’s something for every craving.
Pro Tip: It’s a great place to stop for lunch between sightseeing or to end your day with dinner and drinks in a fun, central setting. The covered space makes it ideal for rainy days too, so keep it in mind as a backup if the weather isn’t working in your favor.
Final Thoughts
Exploring London’s markets is an easy way to get to know the city’s character. Whether it’s antiques at Portobello Road, flowers at Columbia Road, thrifting on Brick Lane, or street food in Camden, each market has its own vibe.
Be sure to make your plans around the days and hours each market is open, and don’t be afraid to just wander around aimlessly, some of the best finds are hidden off the main streets.
