Last Updated on 11 February, 2023
Among the cool and fun things to do in London is checking out the many amazing markets in the city. One such market to add to your London itinerary is Spitalfields Market. Spitalfields in Central London Market is a traders’ market as well as a food and art market. It brings together some of London’s best restaurants, fashion shops, boutiques, and market stalls.
Located at the heart of East London, Spitalfields is one of the city’s oldest markets. As such, it’s packed with character, combining historical convention and modernity to devastating effect.
You’ll find many opportunities to try delicious food and browse original fashion stores. Certainly, a significant location for fashionistas and foodies in England’s capital, Spitalfield Market is a permanent hive of activity.
From having a chance to indulge in luxurious sweet treats to shopping in Shoreditch for that one-of-a-kind item, this market is one of London’s most varied and exciting.
On weekends, Spitalfield market usually plays host to community events. Swing by on a Saturday afternoon and you may catch a one-off vintage shop, a music festival, or an exhibition celebrating the best of local art.
Tip: If you are visiting on a Sunday you can combine it with a trip to Columbia Road Flower Market. On this occasion I had started with Columbia Flower Market and worked my way back down. Walking from the flower market, then through Brick Lane, and then made my way to Spitalfields Market for more exploring of one of London’s best markets.
History Of One The Oldest Markets In London
Spitalfield’s history began around 1666 when traders started operating after the Great Fire of London, where the market stands today. This market regeneration programme that ended in 2005, resulted in two new public areas – Bishops Square and Crispin Place. Both areas restored many historic streets and resulted in more independent retailers and restaurants.
Spitalfield Market is located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and is surrounded by Lamb Street, Brushfield Street, and Bishops Square. Over the time of Spitalfield’s history, the market became one of the major fruit and vegetable markets in London.
The reputation of Spitalfields encouraged many France and Irish people to settle in the area. Their houses are still around Fournier Street, which is now a conservation zone. The growth in the region led to the establishment of Hawksmoor’s Christ Church in 1729, which consecrated this area to become a parish in its own right.
This market currently is open on weekdays and weekends. It locates various retail brands, street-food stalls, exciting bars, restaurants, and independent traders showcasing handmade goods, artwork, fashion, and jewellery. It also houses public art and events programmes.
Highlights of Spitalfield Market
Today, you will find daily markets, and guest markets including vintage, art, and makers markets in Spitalfields. This is much more than an average market!
When shopping in Shoreditch or exploring the area, this is one gem not to miss out on. Not just for shopping but amazing food to while hunting for unique and sometimes one-off accessories and clothing.
There are lots of amazing independent sellers to browse art, design, lifestyle stores, clothing, jewellery, beloved fashion brands, and East London’s best selection of street food in The Kitchens.
Many unique bars and restaurants boast both inside and outside tables so that you can enjoy the market floor atmosphere. There is so much to discover at here, but how can it get any better?
Spitalfields Arts Market is a great collection of established and aspiring artists, gathered in one place, to show their goods. You can ask about the unique stories behind each piece and have a truly memorable experience you’ll share every time you show off your purchased items.
Spitalfields Market Shops And Stalls
You can find high street brands as well as designer labels side by side within Spitalfields Market. Below are just some of the shops and stalls you can expect.
- Chanel Make-up and cosmetics
- Cybele London
- Coach
- Benefit Cosmetics
- Amazon Salon
- Malin+Goetz
- Ollie Quinn
- Poli And Jo
- Diyo Batti
- Leather Republic
- Periodical
- Chaos Leather
- Bacanara Fashion
- Rose London
- Oddessey London
- K&M Specs
- Conquer Gear
- 33BIS Artisanal Edition
- Funky Soap
- Simple Works
- Yanga
- Helen Flower
- A To Z Leather
- Wind-Up Bird
Things To Do Near Spitalfields Market
- Explore Brick Lane.
- Check out the Vintage Markets and shops in Shoreditch.
- Do a free street art tour.
- Go for a pampering session at Townhouse.
- Check out the Asian food on Brick Lane.
- Visit Columbia Road Flower Market – (Open on Sundays).
- Eat your way through Italy – Head to the Eatly shop next to Liverpool street filled with Italy’s best food and wine.
- Check out the food and independent shops at Box Park.
- Work your way through unmissable sights in Shoreditch.
- Check out other markets in East London: Backyard Market, Brick Lane Market, Vintage Market, Columbia Road Market.
- Visit Spitalfields City Farm
Spitalfields Opening Times
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8 am – 11 pm, Sat-Sun 9 am – 11 pm
Location: Spitalfields neighborhood, Central London
Address: 56 Brushfield St, London E1 6AA
Nearest Stations: Liverpool Street Station
