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Charing Cross & Ooty Market Ooty

4.6
·491k reviews·Ooty, India

Charing Cross: London's historic heart and a literary haven. Ooty Market: A vibrant sensory experience of local produce and crafts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
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Charing Cross, Ooty - Image 1

Charing Cross & Ooty Market Ooty

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charing Cross: London's historic heart and a literary haven. Ooty Market: A vibrant sensory experience of local produce and crafts.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Charing Cross is a bustling historic hub, while Ooty Market offers a vibrant taste of local life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore Charing Cross History

Discover the stories behind Charing Cross, from royal processions to its role in London's development.

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Charing Cross Road is famous for its bookstores, especially Foyles.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charing Cross Station

Charing Cross Station

Central London

The historic heart of London, marking the traditional 'center' of the city and a major transport hub.

Eleanor Cross Monument

Eleanor Cross Monument

Charing Cross

A replica of the medieval cross commemorating Queen Eleanor's journey, a symbol of London's royal history.

Foyles Bookshop

Foyles Bookshop

Charing Cross Road

A legendary bookstore offering a vast selection of titles, a haven for book lovers on Charing Cross Road.

Ooty Market

Ooty Market

Ooty Town Center

A bustling marketplace filled with local produce, spices, tea, and handicrafts – a true taste of Ooty.

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Planning Your Visit

Charing Cross: A Historical Crossroads

Charing Cross is more than just a station; it's a historic landmark named after Eleanor of Castile's memorial cross. Expect a bustling hub with significant historical roots, making it a key point for understanding London's past. TikTokInstagram+1

Ooty Market: A Sensory Experience

Ooty Market is a vibrant hub for local produce and crafts. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially if you're looking for fresh spices, tea, and handmade souvenirs. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

In 1290, Queen Eleanor of Castile’s body was carried from Lincoln to Westminster. At every place her coffin rested, King Edward I built a monumental cross. That journey gave us the name Charing Cross — and parts of the route still survive today. #HistoryInPlainSight #EleanorCross #CharingCross #EdwardI #BritishHistory #LondonHistory #RoyalFuneral #ForgottenBritain #MedievalEngland #TikTokHistory #...
@the.history.fox
6K likes • 58.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Charing Cross History

Discover the stories behind Charing Cross, from royal processions to its role in London's development. TikTokInstagram+1

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Charing Cross Road is famous for its bookstores, especially Foyles. TikTokInstagram

The history behind Charing Cross! Have you seen any other of the Eleanor crosses? #lookuplondon #londonhistory #charingcross #queeneleanor #historiclondon #londonfacts #londonhiddengems #londonwalks #londonguide
@lookuplondon
5.2K likes • 95K views
The history behind Charing Cross! Any other place names you’re curious about? #lookuplondon #londonhistory #charingcross #londonwalks #historiclondon #victorianlondon #londonhiddengems #londonguide #londonwalkingtour #mysecretlondon #insiderlondon #londonbylondoners
look_uplondon
35.1K likes • 1.3M views

🌶️ Taste Ooty Market

Sample local spices, fresh tea, and regional delicacies at the vibrant Ooty Market. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Hunting

Find unique handicrafts and local products at Ooty Market. Reddit

📍Charing Cross 💚 tag someone who loves London #️⃣ #londonthecity & @georgivslv 📽 Check our other reels and let us know which you liked most! ▶️Follow us for more and turn the notifications ON! We need to stop Putin! Act now! Support Ukraine! 🇬🇧❤🇺🇦 🇷🇺 Russians be brave and take Putin down! The world needs you!
london.the.city
26.6K likes • 424.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore Charing Cross History

Discover the stories behind Charing Cross, from royal processions to its role in London's development. TikTokInstagram+1

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Charing Cross Road is famous for its bookstores, especially Foyles. TikTokInstagram

🌶️ Taste Ooty Market

Sample local spices, fresh tea, and regional delicacies at the vibrant Ooty Market. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Hunting

Find unique handicrafts and local products at Ooty Market. Reddit

🚇 Navigate with Ease

Charing Cross Station is a major Tube interchange, making it easy to explore London. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Charing Cross is celebrated as a historic and central London hub, praised for its transport links and literary scene, particularly Charing Cross Road's bookstores. Ooty Market is loved for its vibrant atmosphere and local produce. Some find Charing Cross station overwhelming, and Ooty Market can be crowded.

What People Like

Historic significance
Bookstores
Central location

What People Dislike

Crowded areas
Busy transport hub

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There & Around

Charing Cross is a major transport hub. You can easily reach it via the London Underground (Northern and Bakerloo lines) or by National Rail services to Charing Cross Station. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Instagram

In Ooty, you can rent two-wheelers or four-wheelers for local travel. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also readily available for getting around the town and to nearby attractions. Reddit

Charing Cross is best explored on foot to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. Many historical sites and shops are within walking distance. TikTokInstagram

Occasionally, Charing Cross Tube station is transformed for special events, like the Keith Haring tribute. Keep an eye out for unique activations. Instagram

Yes, local buses and taxis are available to reach Ooty Market from various parts of the town. It's centrally located and accessible. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Charing Cross itself is a public area and a transport hub, so no tickets are required to visit. However, specific attractions within the vicinity might have entry fees.

Ooty Market is a public marketplace, and there are no entry fees to browse or shop. You only pay for the items you purchase. Reddit

The Eleanor Cross monument at Charing Cross is a public landmark and can be viewed freely. TikTok+1

Yes, walking tours focusing on London's history often include Charing Cross. Some tours even explore the disused tunnels beneath the station. Instagram

Ooty Market typically operates from early morning until late evening, though specific stall hours may vary. It's busiest in the mornings and afternoons. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Ooty Market is renowned for its fresh produce, aromatic spices, Nilgiri tea, homemade chocolates, and local handicrafts. You can also find clothing and souvenirs. Reddit

Charing Cross Road is a book lover's dream, with iconic stores like Foyles being a must-visit. Other notable bookshops are also in the vicinity. TikTokInstagram

The Charing Cross area offers a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining. Donutelier on Charing Cross Road is a popular spot for sweet treats. TikTok

Must-try foods in Ooty include local chocolates, fresh baked goods, and regional South Indian cuisine. Exploring cafes and restaurants around the market is recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! Ooty Market is the perfect place to find unique, locally made souvenirs like handmade soaps, essential oils, and wooden crafts. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of Charing Cross Station, the historic Eleanor Cross, and the vibrant street life along Charing Cross Road. The surrounding Trafalgar Square is also a prime photo location. Instagram

Yes, Ooty Market offers a colorful and dynamic backdrop for photography, with its vibrant displays of produce and local life. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas around Charing Cross. However, always be mindful of private property and any specific signage.

You can capture the impressive interior of Foyles, its vast shelves, and perhaps even special tote bags if available. TikTok

The Absolut Vodka transformation of Charing Cross Tube station into a tribute to Keith Haring offered unique, pop-art-themed photo opportunities with rare artworks. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, Charing Cross offers a mix of historical intrigue and accessible attractions. While the station itself is a busy hub, nearby Trafalgar Square provides open space for children to explore. Consider a walking tour that incorporates historical stories in an engaging way for younger minds. TikTok+1 The bookstores on Charing Cross Road can also be a fun stop, with many offering children's sections. Instagram

In Ooty, the Ooty Market can be an exciting, albeit busy, experience for kids. Let them marvel at the colorful produce and perhaps pick out some local chocolates or snacks. Reddit The general atmosphere of the market is stimulating, but keep a close eye on children due to the crowds. Renting a two-wheeler or car can make navigating Ooty with family more comfortable. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers

Charing Cross Road is your ultimate destination. Foyles is an absolute must-visit, offering an unparalleled selection of books. TikTokInstagram Spend hours browsing the shelves, discovering new authors, and perhaps picking up a unique tote bag if available. TikTok The entire street is dedicated to literature, so allow ample time to explore the various independent and chain bookstores.

While Charing Cross is primarily known for its literary scene, Ooty Market offers a different kind of discovery. Look for books on local history, culture, or even regional literature if available. The real joy here, however, is the vibrant marketplace itself, which offers a different kind of rich experience.

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs

Charing Cross is steeped in history, from its origins as an Eleanor Cross to its role as a central London landmark. Explore the Eleanor Cross monument and learn about Queen Eleanor of Castile's journey. TikTok+1 Consider a historical walking tour that delves into the area's past, including potential explorations of disused tunnels. Instagram The proximity to other historical sites like Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery makes it a perfect starting point for a historical exploration of London.

In Ooty, the market offers a glimpse into the region's trading history and local produce. While not as grand as London's historical sites, it provides an authentic cultural experience. Reddit Understanding the origins of the local products and the market's role in the community can be fascinating for history enthusiasts.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Royal History of Charing Cross

Charing Cross holds a significant place in London's royal history. Its name originates from one of the 13 ornate Eleanor crosses erected by King Edward I in memory of his wife, Queen Eleanor of Castile, whose body was transported from Lincoln to Westminster in 1290. TikTok+1 The current monument is a Victorian replica, but it stands on the site of the original, marking the traditional 'center' of London. Instagram This area has been a focal point for royal processions and public events for centuries, making it a living piece of British history.

Beyond its royal connections, Charing Cross is a vital transport hub. Charing Cross Station is a major railway terminus and a key interchange for the London Underground. Instagram The area buzzes with activity, from commuters rushing through to tourists exploring nearby attractions like Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. The presence of historical markers alongside modern infrastructure creates a unique urban tapestry.

Recent events have also seen Charing Cross transformed for artistic tributes, such as the Absolut Vodka celebration of Keith Haring, which turned the Tube station into a pop-art spectacle. Instagram This blend of historical significance, modern utility, and cultural events makes Charing Cross a dynamic and endlessly fascinating part of London.

Experiencing the Vibrant Ooty Market

Ooty Market is the pulsating heart of the town, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. It's the go-to place for experiencing local life and picking up authentic Ooty products. Reddit Visitors can find a wide array of fresh produce, including locally grown vegetables and fruits, alongside aromatic spices that are a hallmark of the region. The market is particularly famous for its high-quality Nilgiri tea, available in various blends and forms.

Beyond edibles, Ooty Market is a treasure trove for souvenir hunters. You'll discover an assortment of handmade chocolates, homemade jams and preserves, essential oils, and intricately crafted wooden items. Reddit The lively atmosphere, with vendors calling out their wares and shoppers bargaining, adds to the charm. It’s an excellent spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and find unique gifts to take home.

To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to go in the morning when the market is freshest and less crowded. Reddit Engaging with the local vendors can offer insights into their products and traditions. Remember to carry cash, as not all stalls may accept digital payments, and be prepared to haggle politely for the best prices.

Charing Cross Road: A Literary Haven

Charing Cross Road is synonymous with books in London. This street is a bibliophile's dream, lined with an impressive collection of bookstores, both large and independent. Instagram The most famous among them is Foyles, a legendary establishment that has been a cornerstone of the literary scene for decades. TikTokInstagram Foyles boasts an immense selection of titles across every genre imaginable, making it a destination in itself for book lovers.

Beyond Foyles, the road is home to numerous other bookshops, each with its own unique character and specialization. From new releases to rare and second-hand finds, there's something for every reader. Exploring these shops is an experience that goes beyond just purchasing books; it's about the atmosphere, the smell of paper, and the joy of discovery.

Visiting Charing Cross Road is a must for anyone who appreciates literature. It’s a place where you can spend hours browsing, finding hidden gems, and soaking in the intellectual ambiance. The proximity to other London attractions also makes it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary.

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