Borough Market London
London's historic food market under railway arches, offering gourmet produce, artisanal goods, and iconic street food.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Borough Market London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
London's historic food market under railway arches, offering gourmet produce, artisanal goods, and iconic street food.
"This market is INCREDIBLE and here’s a look at everything you need to get! "
🎯 Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before opening to get a head start on the crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends.
💰 Budget Wisely
It's easy to overspend. Focus on a few key items rather than trying to eat a full meal if you're on a budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Black Pig's Pulled Pork Sandwich
The Black Pig stall
A legendary slow-roasted pork ciabatta with truffle honey aioli. Often called the best sandwich in London!
Viral Crème Brûlée Donuts
Bread Ahead Bakery
Custard-filled donuts with a perfectly torched, caramelized sugar crust. A sweet treat that's hard to resist.
Ginger Pig Sausage Rolls
Ginger Pig stall
Hearty, flavorful sausage rolls made with high-quality British meat. A classic market staple that's a must-try.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
Various stalls
Juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate, a visually appealing and delicious sweet treat.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Mornings are Key
Budget-Savvy Bites: Plan Your Spending
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before opening to get a head start on the crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends. +1
💰 Budget Wisely
It's easy to overspend. Focus on a few key items rather than trying to eat a full meal if you're on a budget.
🦪 Don't Miss the Oysters
Shellseekers offers delicious, fresh oysters and other seafood. A great option for seafood lovers.
☕ Monmouth Coffee
For excellent coffee, try Monmouth. Be prepared for a queue, but it's worth it for coffee aficionados.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early to Beat Crowds
Arrive before opening to get a head start on the crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends. +1
💰 Budget Wisely
It's easy to overspend. Focus on a few key items rather than trying to eat a full meal if you're on a budget.
🦪 Don't Miss the Oysters
Shellseekers offers delicious, fresh oysters and other seafood. A great option for seafood lovers.
☕ Monmouth Coffee
For excellent coffee, try Monmouth. Be prepared for a queue, but it's worth it for coffee aficionados.
🧀 Sample Cheeses
Explore the numerous cheese stalls offering a wide variety of British and international cheeses.
🌮 Try the Chorizo Roll
Brindisa's chorizo roll is a popular and flavorful choice for a quick bite.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Borough Market is a world-renowned food destination celebrated for its incredible variety and quality. Visitors rave about iconic dishes like the pulled pork sandwich and crème brûlée donuts, and the vibrant atmosphere. However, be prepared for significant crowds and higher prices, especially on weekends.
"I loved our visit with the kiddies. I was nice to see all the little independent businesses. Lots of coffee shops, bakery stalls. Fruits, honey and cheese stalls. Of course it was very busy and hard to go round with pram due to some cobble areas and cars going round but overall we managed. Everyone had card machines which made life easy. Wish there was more areas to sit. Some decent halal options. And yes yes the viral £8.50 strawberries are worth the hype.. Que up for this it goes very fast. I wouldn't personally go again as it was so crazy packed out but loved my visit x"
Jahina Begum
"Great food, and a wide range of different food selections. Borough market is usually crowded, but a lovely place to visit (to eat)… The markets atmosphere is lively, and even with tons of people everywhere, you would have a great time visiting the market."
James Wong
"It is an absolute must visit in London, The atmosphere is buzzing, and the food options are incredible. We tried everything from fresh oysters to delicious street food, and it was all amazing. The quality of the produce is top-notch, and it's a great place to just wander around and soak up the sights and smells. Perfect for foodies and anyone looking for a fun, tasty experience."
Saqib Hussain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Borough Market is easily accessible via public transport. The nearest Tube stations are London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines) and Borough (Northern line). Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from nearby attractions like the Shard or Tate Modern.
Borough Market is typically closed on Sundays. It is usually open from Wednesday to Saturday, with slightly different hours for each day. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, you can cycle to Borough Market. There are cycle racks available nearby, but it's advisable to secure your bike well. Be aware that the market can get very crowded, making cycling within the market itself difficult.
Borough Market is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with flat pathways throughout most of the market. However, due to its popularity and the nature of a bustling market, it can get very crowded, which might make navigation challenging at peak times.
From central London, the Tube is often the quickest option. Take the Northern Line to London Bridge or Borough station. Alternatively, many bus routes pass through the area, offering a scenic way to arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Borough Market is free to enter. You only pay for the food and goods you wish to purchase from the various vendors.
Borough Market is typically open Wednesday to Saturday. Wednesday and Thursday hours are usually around 10 am to 5 pm, Friday 10 am to 6 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays. Always verify current hours on their official website.
There is no entrance fee to visit Borough Market. It's a public market, and you can wander through and soak up the atmosphere without spending a penny, though it's hard to resist the delicious offerings!
Yes, guided tours are available for Borough Market, often focusing on its history and culinary highlights. Some tours include tastings. However, many visitors find they can explore and discover its delights independently.
Borough Market is busiest during lunchtime on weekdays and throughout the day on Saturdays. To avoid the largest crowds, aim for early weekday mornings. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Top recommendations include the pulled pork sandwich from The Black Pig, crème brûlée donuts from Bread Ahead, sausage rolls from Ginger Pig, and chocolate-covered strawberries. Seafood from Shellseekers and cheese from various stalls are also highly praised. +2
Absolutely! Borough Market has a fantastic array of vegetarian options, from gourmet cheeses and baked goods to fresh produce, vibrant salads, and delicious risotto. Many stalls offer dedicated vegetarian dishes.
Borough Market can be pricey, especially for prepared foods. While it offers high-quality ingredients and gourmet options, it's not the most budget-friendly place for a full meal. It's best to go with a plan or be prepared to spend a bit more for the experience.
Yes, you can have breakfast at Borough Market. Options include coffee from Monmouth, pastries from Bread Ahead, or even a sit-down breakfast at Brother Marcus. Many vendors open early to cater to breakfast crowds.
Shellseekers is a popular stall offering fresh oysters, scallops, and other expertly prepared seafood. You can find a variety of seafood dishes throughout the market, from grilled prawns to paella. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of fresh produce, the bustling crowds, and the artisanal food preparations. The iconic railway arches and the diverse array of food stalls offer endless visual appeal. Don't forget to photograph the famous crème brûlée donuts being torched!
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of food and the general market atmosphere. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individual vendors or their stalls, especially if they are busy.
Early mornings on weekdays offer softer light and fewer people, making for cleaner shots. However, the vibrant energy and activity during peak hours can also make for dynamic and engaging photographs.
The chocolate-covered strawberries, the crème brûlée donuts with their torched tops, colorful fruit displays, and beautifully presented pastries are all highly photogenic. The paella and artisanal cheese boards also make for great shots. +2
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide market scenes and close-ups of food. A fast prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.8) can be useful for low-light conditions and creating bokeh. A smartphone camera is also excellent for quick snaps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be prepared for crowds, which can be challenging with young children. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to minimize the chaos. Bring a stroller or carrier if needed, and keep a close eye on little ones. It's a great place to let kids try new things in a vibrant, exciting environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider having a more substantial breakfast before you go and then just picking up a few snacks or a single dish to share. Alternatively, you can buy ingredients like cheese, bread, and fruit to assemble your own picnic lunch to enjoy elsewhere.
couples
Consider a food tour for a shared culinary adventure, or simply wander and pick out treats to enjoy together. The market is also a great place to pick up artisanal ingredients for a romantic picnic or a home-cooked meal. Visiting on a weekday morning offers a more intimate experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: Borough Market's Legacy
Today, Borough Market champions sustainable and ethical food production, working closely with its traders to ensure high standards. It's a place where you can find everything from heritage grains and British-reared meats to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread. The market actively supports small producers and encourages a connection between consumers and the people who grow and make their food.
Exploring Borough Market is not just about eating; it's about experiencing a piece of London's living history. The sheer variety of stalls, the passionate traders, and the constant buzz of activity create an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional markets in a modern city.
The Borough Market Foodie Trail: Must-Try Delicacies
For those with a sweet tooth, the crème brûlée donuts from Bread Ahead Bakery are a viral sensation. Watch as they torch the sugar topping to create a perfect caramelized crust. Equally popular are the chocolate-covered strawberries, a simple yet decadent treat that’s a social media favorite.
Don't overlook the savory classics. The sausage rolls from Ginger Pig are consistently praised for their quality and flavor, a true taste of British comfort food. For seafood enthusiasts, Shellseekers offers incredibly fresh and well-seasoned oysters and scallops, making it a worthwhile indulgence.
Navigating the Crowds and Making the Most of Your Visit
If you do visit during peak times, patience is key. Embrace the bustling atmosphere, but be prepared for queues at popular stalls. Consider a guided food tour if you want to sample a variety of offerings without the stress of choosing and queuing for each item individually. These tours often provide historical context and insider tips.
Finally, set a budget before you go. While the quality of food is exceptional, prices can be high. Decide in advance which few items you absolutely want to try to avoid impulse buys that can quickly add up. Borough Market is an experience to be savored, so make sure your visit is enjoyable and memorable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit