LONDON MARKETS:

London’s street markets are among the largest and the oldest in the world and they are an integral part of London life.

The saying “ all life is here” is certainly true for these places; they serve as a rich assault on the senses, combining a heady mix of vivid colours, aromas and flavours, with a down-to-earth gritty realism that is unique to the city.

The street markets are not only for the city folk they are also a great way for travellers to get a taste of London life. Of course, London stalls hold the thrill of finding a genuine bargain, experiencing the truly bizarre, or just soaking up the unique atmosphere of a market which, like the one at Borough, may date back to medieval times.

If a tourist wants to see the ancient markets in operation, it is necessary to get up early in the morning.

For the general markets, earlier you visit a market the better chance you have of a bargain. Shoppers come to purchase inexpensive clothing, fresh produce and household goods, usually at half the price major retailers.

In many markets, the very best bargains come at the end of the day, when anything perishable is sold off and it is possible to watch out for big bags of bagels, and parcels of fruit and flowers going cheap! All market are open all year, whatever the weather, however opening hours may vary as they are at the discretion of individual stall holders.

For smaller items, most market stall holders will only take cash. When a tourist buys larger (more expensive items, antiques), it is important to ask for a receipt and a written description of the item. The markets are spaced away from each other so every part of London you visit you will be able to see at least one of them.

Here below there is a list of the most important and particular markets: