The London Market Guide

Read about London's fantastic markets and get your shopping done with some history as well as saving the pennies

London’s markets are about as varied and changeable as the weather with just about every kind of shopping experience available from a simple fruit and veg stall to fine antiques. I’ve spent the last year visiting all the markets in London for the new edition of The London Market Guide and have lots of favourites, but if I had to recommend one London market to someone visiting London, it would have to be Brick Lane Market in East London.

Brick Lane has all you could want from a vibrant market with loads of cheap clothing of all kinds along Sclater and Cheshire Street and hordes of people selling second-hand junk from blankets and stalls. The fashion conscious will also find lots to explore at the trendy retro stores such as Burt & Mary and Beyond Retro (both on Cheshire Street).

In recent years Brick Lane has taken on a new lease of life with the arrival of two new indoor markets further along Brick Lane at the Truman Brewery . The Sunday Upmarket and Backyard Market are great places to find retro gear, new designer wear and original arts and crafts.

One of the real treats of visiting Brick Lane is the food from around the world – adding to the delicious mix. I never leave the market on a Sunday without visiting the Bagel Bakery at the top of the street for a salt beef sandwich and a cappuccino at the trendy Coffee@ store next door. If Brick Lane hasn’t satisfied your desire to shop, don’t forget Columbia Road and Spitalfields Markets which are both within walking distance.

Brick Lane is open on a Sunday from about 7am with most of the street market closing at around 2pm and the Sunday Upmarket and Backyard Market going on till 5pm. For more information about this and any other London market get The London Market Guide which is out now at all good bookshops for £7.99.

Andrew Kershman
Metro Publications