London has always been a city of markets, with various dedicated markets located around the capital. As an important trading hub, buyers and sellers from around the country and the world have made their way to the city to share their wares, and today, many of those historic markets live on.
While London has plenty of great shopping areas, boutiques, malls and well known department stores, there’s nothing quite like the buzz and excitement of searching for treasures on a busy market stall, or bargaining with a seller for a better deal. If you’ve got an upcoming trip planned to the Piccadilly London West End Hotel, then spending some time at the city’s famous markets is an absolute must. Read on to find out more about some of the best markets in the city, and how to get there by public transport.
Portobello Road Market
If you’re staying in the Piccadilly London West End Hotel and want to visit one of the most well known markets in London, then the Portobello Road is one of the most exciting and diverse markets to add to your list of places to see. The market has been an important part of the Notting Hill neighbourhood for decades, but came into its own from the mid twentieth century, when it became renowned as a place to find exceptional and unique antiques, collectables and vintage clothing.
Today, the market runs six days a week and is closed on Sundays, and runs down the length of Portobello Road. The extensive market area covers several different sections, and each day of the week attracts a variety of sellers and buyers. If you’re hoping to find an antique gem in particular, then head to the market on Fridays, where you’ll find the most expert sellers showcasing their latest items.
It’s easy to get to Portobello Road Market from a number of Tube stations nearby. Within walking distance of the market, you’ll find Notting Hill Gate, Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park, which are all close by.
Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market is a popular place for visitors to London, and if you’re staying in the city with great London hotel deals, then spend some time at this historic and exciting covered market.
Covent Garden’s market piazza dates back to the late 17th century, when the market sold produce to the local residents of the area, but today you’ll find a lot more to choose from than humble fruit and vegetable stalls. The market has a variety of traders, including antiques and collectable items, to independent designers and artisanal crafts people.
Around the market area, you’ll also find some well established brands in residence too, providing a hint of luxury and glamour to the historic space. Getting to Covent Garden Market is straightforward – simply head to Covent Garden Station, and the market is a short walk away. Just make sure you plan plenty of time to browse all that’s on offer, and book yourself some West End wellness to help you recover from your shopping spree afterwards.
Camden Market
Camden Lock Market is renowned for being the fourth most popular visitor attraction in the city, and a visit to the market will certainly back this up. With some excellent Pay on arrival hotels London, it’s easier than ever to take in more of the city.
Packed with visitors from around the world who are keen to browse the stalls as well as soak up the calming atmosphere by the canals, the market is always a great place to experience another side of London, away from its bigger landmarks.
The market has been in the area for decades, packed with everything from vintage clothing and accessory stalls, to arts and crafts, music, jewellery and much more. Today, you’ll also find plenty of delicious and tempting snacks and food to keep you sated while you shop, as well as some great places to sit and relax.
To get to Camden Market, head to Camden Town Station, and walk down towards the Lock. The area is packed with plenty of stores to tempt you as soon as you emerge, but try to hold off and wait until you get to the market itself, to find the best gems.
Brick Lane Market
On the other side of the city, Brick Lane Market is one of East London’s most well known and colourful markets. Taking place on Sundays, the market shows off the diverse variety of the neighbourhood, with a vibrant mixture of contemporary art, quirky fashion, vintage memorabilia and amazing food and drink. The market draws huge crowds just as much for the special atmosphere of the area as the market itself, and it’s a great place to stroll and wander, as you take it all in.
It’s worth making sure that you head to the market bright and early to check out the variety of goods on sale, before you grab some tempting snacks off the stalls, and check out the great street entertainment around you.
To get to the market, there are a number of nearby stations within reasonable walking distance. Liverpool Street station is a 10 minute walk away from Brick Lane, while Shoreditch High Street is also close by, with Overground connections from elsewhere in the city.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Taking place on Columbia Road in Bethnal Green, this sweet Sunday market is a treasured London gem. Unlike many other markets in the city which provide a variety of items, this is dedicated primarily to flowers and plants, and is an incredible place to pick the perfect bouquet for someone special, or to find the ideal piece of greenery for your home.
The market opens at 8am, with keen shoppers arriving early to get the best pickings, so it’s best to get an early start if you want to find something truly special. To get to the market, the best Tube station to use is Bethnal Green, just a short walk away.
