Borough Market
Uncover the Tastes and Traditions of London's Iconic Borough Market
Borough Market in London, one of the oldest food markets, offers a blend of traditional and modern culinary delights. Located near London Bridge, it’s a thriving spot for both locals and tourists, featuring a mix of fresh produce, artisan foods, and gourmet treats.
With a history that stretches back over 1,000 years, the market has been a major hub of commerce and community life since as early as the 12th century. This historic market not only provides unique food items but also acts as a vibrant cultural venue reflecting London’s diverse culinary scene.
I personally love Borough Market for its vibrant mix of history and contemporary flavours, surrounded by unique small shops that add to its charm and appeal.
Practical Information for Visiting Borough Market
To ensure a seamless visit to Borough Market, it’s important to have all the necessary practical information at your fingertips. Here’s everything you need to know about the market’s operations, facilities, and additional tips to enhance your experience.
Tube / Metro
Full Address of Borough Market
Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL
Nearest Underground station: London Bridge served by Northern and Jubilee lines in Zone 1.
Opening Times
Regular Market Days:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
These hours offer the full range of traders, making them the best times to experience everything the market has to offer.
Bank Holiday Opening Hours 2024:
- Includes specific hours for Spring and Summer bank holidays, with special openings on Mondays and extended hours on certain days.
For the Christmas season, the market adjusts its schedule, including early closures on Christmas Eve (Dec 24) and closures from Christmas Day (Dec 25) through to early January. The market is also closed on the first 3 days of New Year.
Facilities
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms are available throughout the market. They are well-signposted, but you can also ask any market staff for directions.
- Seating Areas: There are several seating areas scattered around the market, perfect for taking a break and enjoying some of the food you’ve purchased.
- Information Points: Located at strategic points around the market, these booths provide maps, event schedules, and other helpful information. The staff are always ready to assist with any queries you might have.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Access: The market is fully accessible to wheelchair users. There are no steps or steep inclines, and pathways are generally wide enough to accommodate higher volumes of visitors.
- Assistance Dogs: Borough Market is friendly towards assistance dogs, ensuring that visitors who require them can navigate the market with ease.
Safety and Security
- Security Presence: The market is monitored by security personnel to ensure a safe environment for all visitors. Don’t hesitate to approach them if you need assistance.
- Lost and Found: If you lose something during your visit or find an item, head to one of the information points where lost and found services are managed.
Tips for a Better Visit
- Check for Special Events: Before your visit, check the Borough Market website for any special events or closures that might affect trading hours or stall availability.
- Wear Comfortable Footwear: You’ll likely do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Be Weather Prepared: Much of the market is uncovered, so bring an umbrella or sunhat depending on the weather forecast.
Where is the Borough Market? How to Get There
Borough Market is conveniently located in Southwark, central London, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here’s how you can reach this culinary destination:
By London Underground (Tube / Metro / Subway)
Nearest station is London Bridge. It is on the Jubilee and Northern Lines, offering excellent connections from any part of London.
Once you exit the tube station, you’ll find clear signage leading you directly to the market.
By Train
The nearest train station is London Bridge, which is just a few minutes’ walk from the market. London Bridge serves as a major hub on the National Rail network with connections from various parts of London and beyond. Exiting the station, follow the signs directing you towards Borough High Street; the market is just a short stroll away.By London Buses
Numerous bus routes stop near Borough Market, including numbers 43, 141, 149, and 521, among others, which stop on Borough High Street. If you’re coming from different parts of the city, you can use London’s bus network to get relatively close to the market and enjoy a short walk from any nearby stop.
By Bike
For those who prefer cycling, there are several bicycle racks available around the market. The area is also served by London’s Santander Cycles bike-sharing scheme, with docking stations conveniently located nearby.
Walking to the Borough Market
Borough Market is conveniently located within walking distance from iconic landmarks like the Shard and the Tate Modern. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the Thames as part of a city walking tour.
After indulging in the market’s diverse culinary offerings, you might enjoy continuing your exploration on foot, as it’s a great way to digest and soak in more of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Borough Market is also easily accessible from the South Bank, allowing you to combine a visit with a pleasant walk from other cultural hotspots like the National Theatre or the Southbank Centre. This route offers a delightful way to experience the riverfront ambiance before diving into the market’s bustling energy. The walk is 1.3 miles (approximately 2.1 kilometers) long and typically takes about 30 minutes.
You can easily plan your route and calculate timings using TFL’s Journey Planner, which takes into account your starting point and provides detailed directions.
Car Parking for Those Driving
Given the traffic congestion and limited parking spaces in central London, we highly recommend utilising public transport options. However, for those who prefer to drive, there are several convenient parking options near the Market, including Union Car Parks and Snowsfields NCP, all within a short walking distance.
Exploring The Borough Market
Borough Market is a treasure trove of gourmet delights, artisanal products, and vibrant energy, spread across several market areas each with its own unique character. Here’s a guide to navigating and making the most of your visit to this iconic London market.
Market Layout
The market is divided into three main sections: the Green Market, the Jubilee Market, and the Middle Road. Each area offers different types of products and experiences:
- Green Market: This area focuses on fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. It’s a great spot to witness the bustle of local and international food vendors passionately selling their goods.
- Jubilee Market: Here you’ll find gourmet and specialty foods. It’s perfect for sampling artisanal chocolates, handmade pastas, and exotic spices.
- Middle Road: This section connects the other two and features a mix of everything, with a strong focus on street food and ready-to-eat meals from around the world.
Key Stalls to Visit
Bread Ahead
Famous for its doughnuts and baking workshops, Bread Ahead is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Neal’s Yard Dairy
A paradise for cheese lovers, offering a selection of Britain’s finest cheeses.
Monmouth Coffee
Known for its high-quality beans and expertly brewed coffee, it’s the perfect spot to start your market day.
Brindisa Kitchen
A staple at Borough for Spanish cuisine enthusiasts, offering an array of tapas and ingredients like chorizo, saffron, and high-quality olive oils.
Specialty Foods and Unique Finds
- Tartufaia: Offers a wide range of natural truffle-based products including oils, honey, butter, and truffle brie, all sourced from notable regions like Acqualagna and Australia.
- Shellseekers Fish & Game: Known for its fresh seafood and game, you can find delicacies such as hand-dived scallops and venison.
- The Ginger Pig: One of the best places in London for high-quality British meat, with a focus on sustainability and ethical farming practices.
Sampling the food as you go
Walking through Borough Market, you’ll encounter an array of sensory experiences—from the aromatic spices and freshly baked bread to the colourful displays of fruits and vegetables and the lively chatter of traders and customers. Sampling the food as you go is a part of the experience; many vendors offer tastings or small portions to entice your palate.
Eating at Borough Market
Borough Market offers more than just shopping for ingredients; it’s a culinary journey featuring a variety of delicious foods from hearty breakfasts to gourmet lunches and tasty snacks. Here’s a guide to the best dining experiences the market has to offer:
Breakfast Options
Start your day at Borough Market with some of these enticing options:
- Kappacasein: Renowned for its Borough Market legend raclette and toasted cheese sandwiches, Kappacasein offers dishes made with a variety of local cheeses including Bermondsey-made London raclette and Ogleshield. Alongside their famous sandwiches, the shop also sells a selection of Bill Oglethorpe’s artisanal cheeses.
- Maria’s Market Cafe: A traditional spot for a classic British breakfast. Enjoy their famous bubble and squeak or a full English breakfast with a cup of tea.
- Olivier’s Bakery: Specializes in a variety of freshly baked breads, cakes, and pastries, including 100% spelt breads and soft croissants, all crafted using the finest ingredients by pastry chef Olivier Favrel, based in south-east London.
Lunch and Dining
Borough Market has a great selection of food choices for lunch.
- Padella: Famous for its freshly made pasta, Padella serves up dishes like pappardelle with beef shin ragu that draw long queues but are well worth the wait.
- Hobbs Meat Roast: Offers traditional British roast meat sandwiches, piled high with juicy meats and classic condiments.
- Wright Brothers Oyster and Porter House: Specialises in a broad range of fresh seafood dishes, from classics like Guinness and oyster pie or moules marinières to innovative daily specials. Founded by brothers-in-law Ben and Robin, who also run their own oyster farm in Cornwall, this Borough Market staple offers a quintessential market dining experience, especially if you sit outside on a barrel in the summer to enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
- Brindisa: Renowned for importing high-quality, carefully sourced Spanish foods since 1988. Brindisa offers a range of Spanish delicacies, from the celebrated Ibérico bellota ham and manchego cheese to lesser-known treats like morcilla and mojama. A must-try for visitors is the hot chorizo and rocket roll, available at lunchtime right outside the shop, making Brindisa a hotspot for enthusiasts of Iberian cuisine.
Snacks and Quick Bites
- Bread Ahead Bakery: Don’t miss their legendary doughnuts, filled with vanilla cream, chocolate, or seasonal jams.
- Borough Olives: A vast selection of olives, from Greek Kalamata to Italian Nocellara, providing a fresh and flavorful snack.
- The Turkish Deli: Offers a diverse array of traditional Turkish produce, specializing in over 25 varieties of traditionally cured, unmarinated olives from Gemlik—known for its exceptional olives. The stall, run by husband and wife team Graham and Cimen, also features homemade specialties such as black olive paste, hummus, meze, baklava, traditional Turkish coffee, and gluten-free Turkish delight. Additionally, it provides a range of pantry staples like nuts, dried fruits, spices, and borek pastries.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Borough Market also caters well to vegetarian and vegan visitors:
- Gujarati Rasoi: Delicious vegetarian dishes from Gujarat, India, featuring seasonal vegetables and aromatic spices.
- The Free From Bakehouse: A stall with a selection of wheat-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free baked goods.
- Horn OK Please: Inspired by the bustling streets of India, this stall offers a vibrant selection of Indian vegetarian street food. Founded by Gaurav and Sandhya, Horn OK Please delights visitors with a variety of fresh and fragrant dishes like moong dal dosa, dosa chaat, and egg kati roll. It’s a visual and flavorful feast designed to brighten your day.
Shopping Tips and Tricks at Borough Market
Shopping at Borough Market is an experience in itself, but knowing a few insider tips can make your visit even more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s how to navigate the bustling stalls and come away with the best the market has to offer.
Map courtesy of Borough Market
How to Navigate Crowds
- Plan Your Route: Take a look at the market map available on the Borough Market website or at the information points around the market. Planning your route can help you avoid getting overwhelmed in the busier central areas.
- Visit Off-Peak Hours: If possible, avoid weekends or lunch hours when the market is most crowded. Early mornings or late afternoons during the week are ideal.
Best Times to Visit
- Weekday Mornings: For a more leisurely shopping experience, visit on weekday mornings when the market is less crowded. This is the best time to chat with vendors, ask questions about their products, and enjoy unhurried tastings.
- Late Afternoon Bargains: If you’re looking for deals, some vendors offer discounts on fresh produce and other items in the late afternoon as the market day winds down.
Payment Options
- Cash vs. Card: While many vendors now accept cards, including contactless payments, some smaller stalls might only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry some cash just in case.
- Mobile Payments: Many stalls also support mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay, offering a quick and contactless way to pay.
- ATMs: There are several ATMs around the market area, but they may have high fees or long lines during peak times. Consider withdrawing cash ahead of your visit.
Shopping Like a Pro
- Reusable Bags: Bring your own reusable bags to carry your purchases. Not only is this more environmentally friendly, but it also makes handling multiple items easier as you shop.
- Ask for Samples: Don’t hesitate to ask vendors for samples, especially when it comes to cheese, bread, or other delicacies. It’s a great way to try before you buy and discover new flavours.
- Special Orders: If you’re looking for something specific or need a large quantity, talk to vendors in advance. Many are happy to accommodate special orders for next-day pickup.
- Eco-friendly Practices: Some shops, like Monmouth Coffee, offer reusable cups and avoid single-use plastics. If you plan to take beverages or food to go, you may need to purchase a reusable cup or bring your own. Carrying a travel coffee cup and water bottle to refill is highly recommended.
Cultural & Entertainment Activities at Borough Market
Borough Market isn’t just about food shopping; it’s a vibrant hub for cultural and entertainment activities that showcase its rich heritage and the diversity of its community. Here’s what you can expect in terms of cultural experiences and events:
Regular Events
- Food Demonstrations: Regularly scheduled cooking demonstrations are held at the Market Hall, where chefs and food artisans showcase their skills and share recipes using ingredients sourced directly from the market.
- Tastings and Pairings: These sessions offer visitors a chance to taste a variety of foods and beverages paired expertly—such as cheese and wine pairings, chocolate and coffee tastings, or even more exotic combinations.
Seasonal Festivities
- Christmas Market: During the festive season, Borough Market transforms into a winter wonderland with additional stalls selling holiday treats, crafts, and gifts. It’s an ideal place for Christmas shopping and enjoying seasonal specialties.
- Harvest Festival: Celebrating the bounty of autumn, the Harvest Festival features special stalls, family activities, and decorations that highlight the seasonal produce available in the market.
Workshops and Food Tours
- Cookery Classes: These are offered by various stalls and are a fantastic way to learn new culinary skills directly from the experts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, there’s something to learn.
- Guided Food Tours: These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history of the market and its vendors. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about the food on offer.
Interaction with Local Vendors and Artisans
- Meet the Producers: Many stalls encourage interaction with the producers themselves, allowing you to learn about the sourcing, production, and history of the items you purchase. This direct interaction not only enriches the shopping experience but also supports and promotes local artisans and farmers.
Borough Market Tours
Nearby Attractions
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Visiting Borough Market offers more than just a culinary adventure; its prime location in the heart of London means it’s surrounded by a wealth of other attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or leisurely strolls along the Thames, there’s plenty to explore within walking distance of the market.
The Shard
Just a few minutes’ walk from the market, The Shard stands as Western Europe’s tallest building. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can also enjoy fine dining in one of its exquisite restaurants or a drink in the atmospheric bar.
Southwark Cathedral
Adjacent to Borough Market is Southwark Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a history dating back over 1,000 years. The cathedral not only offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling market but also hosts regular concerts and exhibitions.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
A leisurely walk along the Thames will take you to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse where many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed. Visitors can enjoy a play, take a tour of the theatre, or participate in educational workshops.
Tate Modern
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Tate Modern, a leading modern art gallery housed in a former power station. The gallery’s vast collection of modern and contemporary art is just a 10-15 minute walk from the market, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
The Millennium Bridge
This striking pedestrian bridge, known for its unique design, connects the Bankside area with the City of London. Walking across the Millennium Bridge offers spectacular views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the river, providing a memorable route to or from Tate Modern.
Vinopolis
Wine lovers might explore the nearby Vinopolis before its closure, enjoying a tour that included wine tastings and learning about wine’s history. While Vinopolis is no longer operational, the area still offers various dining and entertainment options that have sprung up in its place.
