Brixton Market
Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhana
London has long been the hub for arts, culture, fashion and of course shopping. From high end designer stores to street markets, London has plenty of markets to suit everyone. There are such a wide variety of markets available that it is easy to find a different style of London market to experience any day of the week. From food and flowers to vintage clothing and antiques there are plenty of specialist and more general street markets available in all parts of London. With a little bit of forward planning you can be sure to find the right market to explore.
London street markets are full of character. From the architecture and produce to the people and convivial vibe, a visit to a London street market is a must for any traveller keen to explore a slice of British culture.
From trees and bedding plants to British blooms and exotic tropical flowers Columbia Road flower market is a riot of colour. The air is permeated with the heady scent of the flowers. Watch as people carry bunches of flowers to beautify their homes.
Lets kick off this market guide with Columbia Road Flower Market on the east end of London. Open on Sunday from 8am till 3pm Columbia Road Flower Market is easily accessible from Hoxton Station. The market is a riot of colour with flowers and foliage of every hue on display. From typical British blooms to exotic tropical flowers, Coloumbia Road Flower Market is a flower lovers dream. You may not be able to bring the blooms to Sri Lanka but the location makes good for some amazing Insta worthy photos.
Also in East London off Commercial street is the Old Spitalfields market which is a market full of bespoke pieces. Get off at Aldgate or Liverpool Street station and discover one of London’s oldest street markets where hundreds of stalls offer products from crafts, art and fashion all with a unique design vibe. Many local artists have their studios there so you are sure to find a great deal of diversity.
Old Spitalfields market is open 7 days a week between 10am to 7pm. If time permits you can also head to Brick Lane market, also in the vicinity.
Mid way between east and west London is Borough Market, one of London’s oldest food markets. Situated under a Dickensian wrought iron roof, this market is a gourmet’s delight with a range of mouthwatering speciality food stalls.
Head west to Notting Hill Gate station and meander down the pastel hued houses until you get to Portobello Road Market which is best to visit on Saturdays. The crowd is cosmopolitan and the vibe eclectic. Browse antique stalls and vintage clothing stalls and grab yourself a bargain. On Saturday the market is huge with over 2000 stalls selling everything from lace and books to unique one off pieces. The market is open from 9am-6pm from Monday to Wednesday and 9am to 1pm on Thursday and 9am to 7pm on Friday. Expect to see hundreds of people searching for bargains while you can soak up the atmosphere.
Food, art, music, underground charm and cultural diversity are all found in Brixton which is becoming an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to find new unexplored things to do in the city. The two indoor markets, Brixton Village and Market Row have a fantastic array of ethnic foods ranging from African to Caribbean. Experience a sensory overload as aromas of jerk chicken and saltfish permeate the air along with the pulsating rhythms of reggae music.
Old Spitalfields market
From rare cheeses and venison pies to artisanal breads and pastries, Borough market is simply delightful. Borough market, which has occupied its present site for 250 years is a short walk away from London Bridge and Borough stations.
