Borough Market
Borough Market: A London food market steeped in history
Near London Bridge Station under the shadow of The Shard, an 87-storey glass skyscraper, sits one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, England. Borough Market is home to over 100 stalls featuring a huge variety of British and international foods.
Borough Market is listed as London’s Oldest Fruit & Veg Market. As far back as the 11th century, London Bridge attracted traders selling grain, fish, vegetables, and livestock. In the 13th century, the traders were relocated to what is now Borough High Street. In 1755, the market was closed by Parliament. A group of Southwark residents raised money to buy land known as The Triangle, once the churchyard of St. Margaret’s, and reopened the market. Today you will find all kinds of culinary treats alongside the traditional fruits and vegetables.
The aisles of the market twist and turn. While walking through the market, I was delighted to round a corner and find still more. There are truffles, chocolates, artisan bread, wild boar, all kinds of olive oil, cheese, cured meats, craft beers, and more. Not to mention the fruit and veg, some familiar, some not so. More kinds of mushrooms than I knew existed. Fruit I’d never seen before. There are also many eating places and pubs around the market.
Through an alley outside of the market building is Green Market. This outdoor market contains vendors selling prepared dishes, all kinds of ethnic foods. The smell of spices and food cooking is likely to entice you even on a full stomach.
you can always visit the Borough Market ATM
Borough Market is open for lunch on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 am to 5 pm. The full market is open Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, and Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm.
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I visited Borough Market for the first time on my last visit to London and you’ve captured the vibe well. It’s a foodie’s paradise. Even if you’re not a foodie (I’m not really) it’s a feast for the eyes. It’s also a great place to pick up unique edible souvenirs to take home to family and friends.
Thanks Deb. I was glad I’d had a full English breakfast before we went or I might have overspent.
I have not been there. I don’t think it was open last I was in London, which gives you an idea how long it’s been. But wow, what a great market, a great experience! Definitely on my list of things to do when I get back.
Jacquie, it is a fun market to visit.
Not much can compete with a street market for stimulating sights, sounds and tastes and Borough Market looks a world class contender. Looks like a fun place to visit and while away a few hours goggling and tasting some of the delicacies and dishes! Anita
Anita, I agree street markets are great. Borough Market had lots to offer.
So that’s what’s under the Shard! Your photos of the market are great.
Thanks Kristin
That must be so amazing to walk through such a variety of food. My stomach is growling just reading this. I will say that London is one of my favorite cities. When I make it back,,which I hope to do at some point in my lifetime, I’ll definitely make sure to check out Borough Market
Erica, it was pretty amazing. London is one of my favourite cities too.
I love markets like this, but there is nothing even comparable in my neck of the woods. Paella is made in the Basque Market in Boise though on a regular basis, which I quite lovely. I had a lot of fun at the Viktualienmarkt in Munich.
Jeri, sadly there is no market near me which makes paella.
I love borough Marker Donna. I was there for the first time a few months ago and i loved it.
The vibe, the food and the people.
Planning to visit again before christmas
I hope you pick up a few special treats on your next visit to the Market. Enjoy!