One of the oldest markets in the heart of central London, Borough Market is a gourmet foodie paradise sprawling across the city at the southern end of London Bridge. More than 100 stalls and stands hawk their goods from Monday through Saturday, many coming directly from small-scale artisan producers, local fisherman and family-owned bakeries offering free samples to passers-by. With more than 1,000 years feeding the city, the market is passionate about keeping Londoners and visitors connected to the culture and role of food in sustainable societies.
There’s almost nothing edible missing from Borough Market, from handmade preserves to freshly dried teas, herb-infused oils, artisan cheeses, cider, rare-breed meats and every imaginable sea creature from crab to oysters, lobster, clams and even old-fashioned cockles and mussels. Market buildings reflect its history, from a 1930s Art Deco entrance on Southwark Street to various structures designed in the 1850s. A newer Market Hall opening onto Borough High Street houses a greenhouse for growing herbs and hops, and halls for food-related lectures, tastings and cooking classes.
With a prime spot in London’s city centre near Southwark Cathedral, getting to the market area is as simple as hopping on a train, subway or bus, hailing a taxi or cycling. The nearest station is London Bridge, and the market sits on Southwark Street and Borough High Street. Upon reaching the area, walking from stall to stall along the bustling market strip is the best way to drink in the sights and sounds of London in the most real way possible.
After hundreds of years serving the daily needs of Londoners, Borough Market has emerged as a trendy go-to place frequented by celebrities and film crews. The market streets and surrounding alleyways have been featured in films such as Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Bridget Jones's Diary, and the Tate Modern Museum used Borough Market as the setting for “The Wedding Market” event.