Do you have supermarket phobia? Or just prefer your food fresh and straight from the source? London has you covered, with an amazing array of food markets all over town.
Many local areas have their own farmers market, usually held every weekend, and are worth sourcing for a regular supply of fresh, organic produce.
Or, head out to these bigger, more famous markets, and combine your weekly shop with a fun London day out.
1. Borough Market, London Bridge
Borough market is a haven for the culinary adventurers of London. It is a source for the best local and international produce, be that seafood, cheese, fruit & veg and many more weird and wonderful foods from around the world.
Being situated right by London Bridge station makes it easily accessible. However, note that it is closed on Sundays.
2. Berwick Street Market, Soho
This central London market is one of the oldest in the whole city, with roots going back to 1778.
Berwick Street Market is situated in the heart of Soho, between the strip joints in Walker’s Court and the glamorous Yauatcha restaurant on Broadwick Street. Selling a range of fruit, veg and local produce, alongside hip fashion and and independent vinyl record stores, the market mostly comes alive during the lunch-time rush hour when London’s workers come out for some delicious grub.
3. Portobello Road Market , Notting Hill
Notting Hill is one of the most interesting and dynamic places in London. In the centre of this quirky village is the famous Portobello Road and, of course, its market known predominately for the sale of antiques.
Portobello Market also dabbles into fruit and veg and all kinds of other delicious food. You’ll find bakeries, fish mongers and cheese sellers here, amongst the eclectic antique stalls and their customers from all across the country.
The market can be open at varying times, so best to check online before you make your visit!
4. Broadway Market, Hackney
All crammed into a long East London street, running from London Fields to Regent’s Canal, the Broadway Market has plenty to tickle your taste buds.
The best thing about the Broadway Market is that all of the produce, including organic meat, fruit and veg, fish, oysters and so much more, is all at supermarket prices, if not cheaper!
This quaint market is only open on Saturdays, from 9am until 5pm and makes for a great place to visit to stock up before a big dinner or the week ahead.
5. Camden Lock Market
Though not originally established to sell food, Camden Lock Market houses some of the most exciting places to eat in the whole of London.
The Camden Lock you see today began as a timber yard, which in the 1970s opened as an arts and crafts market.
History aside, the Camden Markets offer food fit for even the fussiest of eaters. Tuck into a kangaroo burger at the Global Kitchen or try an irresistible vegan and gluten-free treat from the Cookies and Scream bakery.
TOP IMAGE: Borough Market, London. (By pcruciatti via Shutterstock.com)
MIDDLE IMAGE: Borough Market, London. (By pio3 via Shutterstock.com)