As one of the world’s most multicultural cities, London has dozens of unique markets that meet the tastes of visitors and locals alike. From traditional British markets offering poultry and vegetables, to the world’s best antique collections, London has something to suit everyone.
For those who love everything that is quirky, Portobello Road Market offers everything from exciting exotic spices to collectible vinyl records. On a Saturday, Portobello Road Market has on average 2000 stalls, all of which sell something different. If you are looking to stock up on fresh fruit and veggies, you can do so while having the opportunity to browse through flamboyant clothes. In addition to this, it is now possible to find online coupons that will get you a discount tour of the market, which will allow you to get the most out of your shopping experience.
If you fancy something a little more exciting, take a trip down Brick Lane. As the area of London that is famous for its multicultural vibe, Brick Lane has a market that sells spices, traditional Indian clothing, and Jewish cuisine. One of the primary attractions of Brick Lane’s market is the street artists selling their original paintings and art deco furniture items. Once you have finished shopping, you can enjoy a curry made from scratch at one of the many restaurants in the area.
A common scene at Brick Lane Market (via garryknight)
No market tour of London would be complete without a visit to Columbia Road Market. As one of the biggest horticultural markets in the world, Columbia Road caters to the tastes of those who prefer English classics, as well as people who like the wilder side of gardening. While there, you will have the opportunity to pick up a 10ft tall banana tree to add to your collection, five sunflowers for £5, and a whole array of herbs. Thanks to its wide collection of plants, Columbia Road Market is one of the sweetest smelling places in London, and a visit there will leave you feeling as though you are no longer in Britain’s biggest metropolis.
Finally, if the thought of experiencing some of the world’s finest fresh foods excites you, head for Leadenhall Market. Leadenhall has existed since the Victorian period, and now that it has been restored to meet modern London’s demands, it offers fresh fish, poultry, meat, and cheese to those who shop there. Traditional British butchers can be found there selling meat brought in from the farms surrounding Greater London, as can international sellers offering exotic selections like ostrich, buffalo, and crocodile. Chocolate lovers will also find themselves satisfied, as the world famous chocolatier Hotel Chocolat has its original store there, offering the world’s widest selection of chocolate flavors. Cheese lovers who want to create the ultimate cheese platter will find themselves spoiled for choice, as multiple sellers have cheeses from around the world on offer. Once you have exhausted yourself finding ingredients for the perfect dish, you can sit back and relax in a boho bar, or tuck into a meal at a traditional gastro pub.
featured image via Blowing Puffer Fish
