Eating & Shopping at London’s Borough Market

Whenever I visit a new country, there’s one item that sits high atop my travel bucket list—local markets. I think of them as living museums, bursting with life, color, and the flavors of local culture. If you really want to understand a place, skip the tourist traps and head straight to the market.

Borough Market – A Must-Visit Destination for Foodies

London has its fair share of these gems, but there’s one that stands out—the legendary Borough Market.

Borough Market: That bit of history

A Thousand Years of History

Can you believe it? Borough Market has been around for nearly a thousand years! Back in the day, it was the only bridge across the Thames, ensuring a constant flow of people. The market has been on its current site since the 13th century. That’s history you can taste!

In 1755, there was a scare. Parliament closed the market. But the residents, bless their hearts, came through. They held a crowdfunding campaign and raised £6,000. That’s a lot of dosh back then! They bought a piece of land from the church, ensuring the market’s survival.

Culinary Delight Awaits at the Borough Market

Borough Market is synonymous with good food. Imagine over 100 stalls, each brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and delicacies from around the globe. It’s a sensory overload, but in the best possible way. I mean, who wouldn’t want a little taste of Sicily or Normandy right in the heart of London?

And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to go there with an empty stomach. Trust me. With cash in your pocket and a camera in hand, you’re all set for a day of culinary exploration. Be prepared to add 2-3 kilograms by sunset. It’s worth every bite.

From Ostrich Eggs to Cannoli

Fancy trying ostrich eggs? Maybe some buffalo meat? Borough Market has it all. And don’t even get me started on the authentic cannoli. It’s a foodie paradise, offering everything you can dream of and more. Every corner brings a new discovery, a new story, a new flavor.

Getting to the Borough Market

Reaching Borough Market is part of the adventure. Located near London Bridge, it’s easily accessible by train, tube, or even on foot if you’re feeling adventurous. The market is open from 10 am to 5 pm on weekdays, with extended hours on Saturdays. It’s closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

How Long to Spend at the Borough Market

Time flies at Borough Market. You could easily spend an entire day exploring the stalls, sampling foods, and soaking in the atmosphere. With so much to see and taste, a few hours simply won’t do it justice. Go with an empty stomach, cash in hand, and a camera ready to capture your discoveries.

Why You Must Visit Borough Market

Borough Market is more than a food market; it’s an experience. From the bustling energy to the diverse offerings, it’s a microcosm of London itself. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or culture enthusiast, you’ll find joy in every corner.

Borough Market: Fun Facts

Film Fame

Borough Market isn’t just a hit with foodies; it’s a star on the silver screen too! It’s appeared in films like Bridget Jones’s Diary and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters as you explore this cinematic setting.

Nighttime Magic

While most know Borough Market as a lunchtime destination, the biggest transactions happen at night. At 2 am, it opens for wholesale buyers—cafes, restaurants, hotels—before welcoming the public at 10 am.

It is Indeed VERY Old

Urban legends claim Borough Market is over 1,000 years old. While the earliest records date to 1276, its history is rich and layered. Trading once took place near the river before moving further up the high street. The market as we know it has thrived since 1756.

Preserving Tradition

The market wasn’t always as orderly as it is today. In the 1700s, stalls spilled onto the streets, blocking major thoroughfares. The City of London eventually took control, closing the chaotic market to make way for a more organized trading space—a transformation that’s ensured its longevity.

Spending a day at Borough Market is a colorful experience, to say the least. You’re not just indulging in good food, but soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. It’s all about making memories. And isn’t that what travel is about