The best markets to visit in London

London is known for a great many things – but its markets are truly world-famous. Whether you’re after fresh produce, vintage treasures, or the latest street food craze, London’s bustling markets offer something special for every traveller.

Exploring these iconic and emerging hotspots couldn’t be easier, with SWR’s direct services to Waterloo, Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, and beyond. 

Why London’s Markets are a Must-Visit  

Despite rapid changes in the city, London’s markets remain at the heart of its cultural and culinary scene. Each year visitor numbers continue to grow, with millions drawn to the authenticity, creativity, and sustainability initiatives on offer. 

Local makers and traders champion zero-waste and ethical sourcing, while street food markets thrive with innovative flavours from around the world. Whether you’re hunting antiques, flowers, or the best artisan coffee, London markets deliver experiences you simply can’t replicate online. 

With that being said, we’ve curated a list of the best markets we think you should visit next time you’re getting the train to London. 

Classic London Markets you Can’t Miss

1. Borough Market – London Bridge 

Opening Times: Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00, Sun 10:00–15:00 
Nearest Station: London Waterloo 
Why Visit: A food lover’s paradise, Borough Market remains a bustling hub for fresh produce, artisanal breads, and gourmet street food. Recent expansions include a new produce hall showcasing organic and rare ingredients.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: arrive early to beat the crowds and grab breakfast from Brindisa’s chorizo stall. 

2. Portobello Road Market – Notting Hill 

Opening Times: Thursday & Friday 9:00–18:30, Saturday 9:00–19:00 (antiques mainly Saturday) 

Nearest Station: Notting Hill Gate (Tube), Clapham Junction (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: Famous for its antiques and colourful stalls, Portobello Road has also embraced sustainable fashion with a growing number of vintage traders on Golborne Road.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: explore the quieter weekday sections for unique collectibles without the weekend crowds. 
 

3. Camden Market – Camden Town

Opening Times: Daily 10:00–18:00 
Nearest Station: Camden Town (Tube), Clapham Junction (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: Now including the new Hawley Wharf canal-side development, Camden Market offers an eclectic mix of street food, vintage fashion, and creative crafts. The Hawley Wharf food court contains over 30 global street food options and is a must-visit for any street food enthusiasts.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: wander along the canal towpath for picturesque views and lesser-known stalls. 

4. Columbia Road Flower Market – Shoreditch 

Credit:  Aurelien Guichard

Opening Times: Sunday 8:00–15:00 
Nearest Station: Shoreditch High Street (Overground), Vauxhall (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: A riot of colours and scents, this Sunday-only market is London’s premier destination for flowers and garden plants. Get there early for the best blooms and enjoy the nearby independent cafes.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: pair your visit with a stroll in nearby Victoria Park. 

5. Old Spitalfields Market – Liverpool Street 

Credit: Craig Nagy

Opening Times: Daily 10:00–18:30 
Nearest Station: Liverpool Street (Tube & Overground), Vauxhall (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: A blend of independent boutiques, vintage stalls, and street food traders in a striking Victorian market hall. It’s a great place for unique gifts and seasonal food fairs.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: arrive on Thursdays or weekends for the best variety. 
oldspitalfieldsmarket.com 

6. Hackney Flea Market – Stoke Newington 

Opening Times: Monthly (typically weekends – check online for upcoming dates) 
Nearest Station: Dalston Kingsland (Overground), Clapham Junction (SWR + Overground) 
Why Visit: A vintage lover’s dream, Hackney Flea Market brings together a curated mix of retro furniture, 1960s fashion, rare vinyl, books, and home décor from independent dealers across London. It has a loyal local following thanks to its ever-changing stalls and strong community vibe. 

SWR’s Insider Tip: Bring cash, as some traders don’t take cards. 

London’s Best Food Markets 

1. Seven Dials Market – Covent Garden 

Opening Times: Daily 11:00–23:00 
Nearest Station: Covent Garden (Tube), Waterloo (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: Combining an indoor food hall with street-food traders along Cucumber Alley, Seven Dials Market has fast become a hotspot for foodie culture and evening dining. Expect everything from gourmet burgers to vegan delights.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: visit on weekdays for quieter dining and market events. 

2. Mercato Mayfair – Mayfair 

Opening Times: Daily 12:00–22:00 
Nearest Station: Green Park (Tube), Clapham Junction (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: A stylish food hall housed in a converted church, Mercato Mayfair prides itself on sustainability and implements a zero-single-use-plastic policy. Sample world-class dishes in an atmospheric setting.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: check their events calendar for tasting evenings and chef pop-ups. 
 

3. Southbank Centre Food Market – Waterloo 

Opening Times: Friday–Sunday 11:00–20:00 
Nearest Station: Waterloo (SWR & Tube) 
Why Visit: Featuring 40+ sustainable food stalls, this riverside market offers everything from Ethiopian injera to wood-fired pizza. Its proximity to SWR’s Waterloo station makes it an easy stop before or after a theatre visit.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: bring a picnic blanket and enjoy your meal on the riverbank. 

4. Maltby Street Ropewalk – Bermondsey 

Opening Times: Saturday & Sunday 11:00–17:00 
Nearest Station: London Waterloo(SWR & Tube) 
Why Visit: A narrow alley of street food stalls and independent producers, Maltby Street is a favourite among locals. Try the famous sausages and speciality coffee.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: come early to avoid queues. 

The Best Vintage and Crafts Markets in London 

1. Greenwich Market – Greenwich

Opening Times: Wed–Sun 10:00–17:30 
Nearest Station: London Waterloo + Tube

Why Visit: Known for its artisan crafts, artwork, and street food, Greenwich Market is perfect for those looking for something off the beaten path.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: visit on Wednesdays for a quieter experience with more space to chat with makers. 

2. Hackney Wick Makers’ Market – Hackney Wick

Opening Times: 1st Saturday of the month, 11:00–16:00 
Nearest Station: Hackney Wick (Overground), Clapham Junction (SWR + Tube) 
Why Visit: Focused on local artists and craftspeople, this monthly market offers unique handmade goods and street eats.  

SWR’s Insider Tip: pair with a canal walk and a visit to nearby breweries. 
hackneywickmarket.com 

3. Canopy Market – King’s Cross 

Opening Times: Friday 12:00–20:00, Saturday & Sunday 11:00–18:00 
Nearest SWR Station: London Waterloo
Why Visit: Located beneath the striking Victorian-style West Handyside Canopy, this curated market offers handmade ceramics, artisan jewellery, and fine art from emerging designers. Regular rotations mean there’s always something new. 

SWR’s Insider Tip: Visit during the monthly craft edition to meet local makers in person. 
 

4. Peckham Salvage Yard – Peckham 

Opening Times: Monthly (usually first or second weekend); check website for dates 
Nearest Station: Peckham Rye (Overground & National Rail), Clapham Junction (SWR + Overground) 
Why Visit: Run by the team behind Hackney Flea Market, Peckham Salvage Yard is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, retro furniture, vinyl, and mid-century homeware. Housed in the Bussey Building, it attracts serious vintage hunters and casual browsers alike. 

SWR’s Insider Tip: Arrive early for the best picks, and explore the rooftop bars nearby after browsing. 
 

5. Crafty Fox Market – Pop-Up Locations

Opening Times: Monthly events (check website for current venues) 
Nearest SWR Station: London Waterloo
Why Visit: A renowned platform for independent makers, Crafty Fox Market showcases high-quality crafts, homeware, zines, and fashion. It’s known for championing emerging designers and creatives across London. 

SWR’s Insider Tip: Follow their social channels to catch themed events or special designer-maker takeovers.

Travel Tips: Reaching London’s Markets with SWR 

Getting to London’s markets by train is easy with South Western Railway’s direct routes to key stations like Waterloo, Vauxhall, and Clapham Junction. Many markets are a short walk or quick Tube/bus ride from these hubs. 

Tip: Use contactless payment or Oyster cards for smooth transfers on buses and Tube. 

Accessibility: Many stations have step-free access; check SWR and TfL websites for details. 

Timing: Off-peak train tickets often save money — perfect for leisurely market trips. 

Sustainable Shopping & SWR Rewards 

Help keep London’s markets green by bringing a reusable tote and water bottle. Many traders support zero-waste packaging, especially at Mercato Mayfair and Southbank Centre Food Market. 

Don’t forget to link your market visit with SWR Rewards, offering discounts on food, drink, attractions and accommodation near popular market areas.  

Plan Your Market Day Out 

Book your ticket to London today – arrive at any of our SWR stations and connect onto the London Underground.