We have been in quite the adventurous mood lately, visiting many street markets all around London. We are amazed by what each of them have to offer and love getting inspiration from all the creatives in London. From stylish designer clothes to vintage bargains, unique arts and crafts, delicious food and beautiful flowers – there is a street market for everyone. If you're unsure of which market to pay a visit to, we've got you covered! Here is part I of our little guide to some of our favourite London markets.
Old Spitalfields Market:
This London staple is located in Spitalfields near Liverpool Street Station and is open every day of the week. It offers a different theme on most days and is never boring because there is always something new to see. On Thursdays, Spitalfields Market offer an amazing antique market. If vintage jewelry, clothing and furniture is not your cup of tea, do not worry! Fridays offer a designers market where you can find handcrafted fashion by new, hip and unique designers. Another good thing about Spitalfields Market is that the market area is surrounded by little independent shops and cafes, yummy restaurants and food stalls where you can take a little shopping break in between.
Handy Map To Find It:
Pro Tip:
If you're planing on going to the antique market, we recommend going quite early. That way you have first pick on all of the great bargains!
For more information on all the opening times, different theme days and all the little stores and restaurants click here.
Columbia Road Market:
Every Sunday, Columbia Road hosts a giant flower market from 8:00am to 3:00pm. The streets are lined with flower stalls and there are bargains to be found everywhere! We love going here to treat ourselves to lovely greenery and delicious flowers that make our homes more beautiful. When you're done with flower shopping, there are many cafes to go to– where you can sit down and relax, have a cup of coffee/tea and enjoy delicious homemade baked goods. Once you have regained your strength, there are over 60 little independent shops all over Columbia Road that are waiting to explored. It's the perfect Sunday adventure in London!
Handy Map To Find It:
Pro Tip: Best to get there early OR if you are not an early riser go to brunch in one of the pubs or cafes first and then go get your hands on all the bargains at the end of the day. Sometimes if you get there late (when stall traders are packing up), gardeners will sell their flowers and plants for a more reduced price! Win win!
For more information on the market and a list of all the shops to discover and possible food places to go to click here.
Brick Lane Market / The Truman Markets:
A combination of 5 different market areas that all focus on different themes make up this amazing market. Although it's only open on specific days of the weekend, the Brick Lane Market offers something for everyone. If you fancy going for some vintage clothing shopping and old vinyl bargains, then definitely check out the Vintage Market. In addition to that there are many antiques and homeware to be found in the Tea Rooms. Why not stop by to grab a warming cup of coffee in their little cafe? Once you have made it to the tea rooms head straight for the Backyard Market where various young designers present their fashion, jewelry, arts and crafts (most of the time they are all handmade). If you happen to make it on a Saturday or Sunday, we recommend the Boiler House to experience the indoor street food market that serves up culinary dishes from just about every corner of the world. Definitely a must for all you foodies! On Sundays there is an additional marketplace called the Sunday Up Market where you can eat delicious food from around the globe while shopping through the rows of jewelry, accessory, clothing stalls, and more! Taking part in any of these markets is part of the Brick Lane experience. Enjoy :)
Handy Map To Find It:
Pro Tip: There is a lovely food court down the street opposite the Tea Rooms and Backyard where you can grab a delicious lunch while basking in the sun (not so much in the winter - ha!). If you're a music lover make sure to stop by Rough Trade East record store– it is amazing! Not only can you browse through various CDs, vinyls and books, there is a black and white photobooth where you can take photos with your friends! Make sure to stop by Crosstown if you have room for a sweet pick me up :)
There you go, those are 3 of our favourite markets in London. If you feel like making a day of it or have limited sightseeing time we recommend combining all of them in one weekend! They're only a short walk away from each other so it is definitely worth going to both if you have the time :)
Keep your eyes peeled for more London markets – coming soon! There's too many to fit them all into one post! If you have one that you think the LICKALIX team should check out, please let us know in the comment section below! :)
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