Spare a thought for London’s market stallholders. They set up their stalls and ply their trade whatever the weather, usually starting work at the crack of dawn, to be ready for the throngs of visitors they will then have to entertain enough so that they buy something. To top it all, some of them have to work on a Sunday. These markets open specifically on the day of the Sabbath.
Sunday UpMarket
Its location just off Brick Lane certainly guarantees that the Sunday UpMarket is always going to be a hipster-fest, but as well as people-watching it offers a great selection of food from around the world. In the summer, stalls set up outside the Truman Brewery, offering Spanish paella, Peruvian sweets, Japanese deep-fried octopus balls and freshly squeezed fruit smoothies. Meanwhile the astroturf gets filled with people recovering from the night before or attempting to catch some rays. In colder climes the market is indoors, where you will also find clothing, jewellery and art, of the edgy, East London kind.
Columbia Road Flower Market
As its name suggests this market does flowers of all kinds, and has been going strong since Victorian times. It’s quite an experience even if you’re not intending to purchase any camellias, as the air is heavily perfumed and market traders will loudly announce their prices, which are often remarkably low. Aside from the stalls themselves there are numerous independent shops on either side of the road, selling art, clothing and stuff for the home. As the only one of its kind in the city, expect it to get really busy, so you’re best arriving early if you can bear it to avoid the crowds.
Chatsworth Road Market
Chatsworth Road Market is a prime example of London’s gentrification. It’s located in Clapton, which less than a decade ago was more famous for its ‘Murder Mile’ than for its shopping, so-called because of the high gun crime rate. But as house prices rise and buyers are forced to look to alternative areas for property, Clapton’s character is changing significantly. This Sunday market sells organic products, vintage clothing and food like slow roasted lamb. \n\nOld Spitalfields Market
Not to be confused with the other Spitalfields, the fruit and veg wholesaler in Leyton, this is one of London’s most famous markets. It’s also been around for centuries, since the 17th, to be precise. It has a fascinating history, as each wave of immigration has brought changes, from the Huguenots and the silk trade, to the Jewish fabrics industry, and later Bangladeshi-run businesses. You’ll find clothes, both vintage and new, accessories, antiques and artworks – all the fresh produce was relocated to Leyton in the 90s when the market was getting too big. It gets very busy here, and being a stone’s throw away from Liverpool Street station means there are plenty of places to eat and drink should you get tired of walking.
Islington Farmer’s Market
On Sundays this market sells the sort of food you’d expect to find at a high end deli. There is organic (of course) fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, hand-rolled pasta, and high quality meats. It’s a little on the pricey side, but is bound to get your mouth watering. Ironically for the rest of the week, this market couldn’t be more different. Chapel Street Market (as it is usually known) sells fruit and veg cheaply, as well as things like soap and kitchen towels, without the slightest whiff of biodynamic cider in the air.
Bayswater Road
Every weekend artists hang their works to the railings of Bayswater Road with the hope that passers-by will purchase one. And quite often they do, if the fact that the tradition has been going for 50 years is anything to do by. Over 250 pieces are shown weekly, and include paintings, photographs and sculptures. Expect plenty of pretty landscapes and still life.
\n\nCamden Lock Market
There’s plenty to see here during the week, but it’s on Saturdays and Sundays that this market really comes into its own (sharpen your elbows!) Fans of vintage clothing will have lots of items to rifle through, but the stalls selling clubwear and gothic gear are still here. There is food and drink (not fresh produce mind, but actual ready-made meals), jewellery, prints of celebrities and other nic nacs that would make suitable gifts. Don’t forget to visit the covered Victorian market hall too.
Petticoat Lane
Yet another East End market, but this one is almost exclusively devoted to clothing. Items are cheap and with over a thousand stalls setting up on a Sunday you’re bound to find something among the dresses, leather jackets, trainers and other garments. A few stalls sell electrical goods too. Get here early as it closes at around 2 pm.
Greenwich Market
This covered market has tempting options for foodies like Brazilian churros, dim sum, and even roast beef with Yorkshire pudding! Once you’ve had your fill of snacking you can browse the antique furniture, china, accessories and ornaments. It's more grown-up than trendy, but ideal if you’re searching for a present for an older relative.
