8 Of The Best London Markets To Visit This Summer
Coming home with a bag full of goodies is one of the most satisfying feelings in the world, and even more so when your purchases are special finds from unique market stalls rather than chain shops that everyone else shops from! You can find the most gorgeous vintage skirt, or the perfect vanity mirror or that oak chess set you never knew you needed, all around the markets of London, often for prices that will wow you more than the goods themselves! Trotting around markets during London summertime is the perfect outdoor activity, even if you just want to browse; our list of 8 of the best London Markets to visit this summer offers you variety and a shopper’s paradise.
1. Brick Lane Market
A stone’s throw away from the tastiest Bengali, Pakistani and Indian curries you could possibly eat, Brick Lane market on Sundays offers you a chaotic but charming atmosphere. A gem of the East End, you’ll find food, furniture and fabulous pieces of art, located perfectly so that you can grab the fluffiest bagel you’ve ever had at Bagel Bake. As it’s set in Shoreditch, the recommended next stop is the glorious Spitalfields Market.
2. Old Spitalfields Market
Spitalfields Market is a classic Victorian market that will never go out of style, and it’s open every day! Saturdays are devoted to fashion and clothing, but every day you’ll find brands exhibiting all sorts of goods. The market is covered too, so you’re protected from the slight chance of summer rain. Check in regularly for the different events held at the market.
3. Camden Town
Having lived in Camden, I can vouch for the wonders the market has to offer. Fresh orange juice, delicious desserts and a plethora of cuisines are only part of the allure of the market. Buy all your gifts here, with the range of jewellery, clothes and crafts available, and take your Instagram snaps with the ever changing colours of the market.
4. Borough Market
Borough Market is a splendid maze of fresh veg, cheeses, meat, sweets and just about all the best types of foods. Sample some of the eclectic foods on offer and have a great experience every time with family and friends. Transport yourself from South America to North Africa with the fab range of the tastiest food at this summer market, open Mondays to Saturdays.
5. Columbia Road Flower Market
This beautiful, blossoming market is open every Sunday and shows off flowers of all colours of the rainbow. Set in the heart of the market district, with Shoreditch and Brick Lane around the corner, Columbia Road is a great place to buy your bunches before going for a leisurely lunch nearby.
6. Portobello Road Market
Antiques galore down Portobello Road Market. The colourful houses along the street are alone worth the trek into West London. Haggle your finds down to the best price and come away with a shopping high.
7. Parson’s Green Farmer’s Market
Homemade foods and crafts are what you’ll find around Parson’s Green Farmer’s Market. Organic and seasonal goods give this market in New King’s Road a load of character and that quaint country feel you don’t usually get in the city.
8. Southbank Centre Book Market
A bit of a secret even to Londoners, this market located on the Southbank is lovely to pop into if you’re in the area. Going later in the day up until 7 pm is ideal when trying to find a smashing book to add to your reading list. Much more romantic than a standard bookshop, this is definitely one of the best London markets that’s worth the wander.
Wandering around London markets and stalls in the summer is one of my favourite activities. How many of these best London markets can you cross off your list?
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