Old Spitalfields Market London
A historic Victorian market hall buzzing with independent stalls offering global street food, unique crafts, vintage finds, and creative activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Old Spitalfields Market London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Victorian market hall buzzing with independent stalls offering global street food, unique crafts, vintage finds, and creative activities.
"A vibrant hub for foodies and shoppers seeking unique treasures and global flavors."
🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Venture into the surrounding streets for more hidden gems and eateries, especially around Brick Lane .
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Look for deals on street food; many stalls offer delicious options under £10 .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Food Delights
Various food stalls
Indulge in diverse global flavors, from juicy pulled pork bagels to spicy fried chicken and grilled cheese.

Artisan Crafts & Apparel
Independent boutiques and stalls
Discover unique handmade jewelry, clothing, art, and vintage finds from local designers and makers.

Pottery Painting Fun
Our Play Studios
Unleash your creativity with a fun and affordable pottery painting session, a perfect solo or group activity.
Vintage Camera Treasures
Camera stall
Browse a fascinating collection of vintage and film cameras for photography enthusiasts.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Find the Best Eats
Beyond the Stalls: Unique Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Venture into the surrounding streets for more hidden gems and eateries, especially around Brick Lane.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Look for deals on street food; many stalls offer delicious options under £10.
📸 Camera Gear Galore
Don't miss the camera stall for unique vintage finds and photography equipment.
🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist
Try pottery painting for a fun, affordable solo activity.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Hall
Venture into the surrounding streets for more hidden gems and eateries, especially around Brick Lane.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Look for deals on street food; many stalls offer delicious options under £10.
📸 Camera Gear Galore
Don't miss the camera stall for unique vintage finds and photography equipment.
🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist
Try pottery painting for a fun, affordable solo activity.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Old Spitalfields Market for its incredible variety of street food, unique artisan crafts, and vibrant atmosphere. It's praised as a top London market for discovering independent designers and enjoying diverse culinary options. However, some find it can get overwhelmingly crowded, especially on weekends, and certain food items might be pricier than expected.
"Amazing selection of delicious food and fun shops in the Old Spitalfields Market. It was almost overwhelming as everything looked amazing. Wish we would have allocated more time to explore as there were some amazing stalls here."
Alyssa Becker
"It's a vibe, definitely. The weekend is going to be buzzing. There's plenty to see. Food to eat. It's a tourist trap, I'm a trendy trap. But not in a bad way.
You're going to enjoy the experience, and you might just come across that item you always wanted.
It in all its a vibrant and colourful place to vist in London."
Steven stennett
"Very cool market! Lots of little shops, eats and treats! Things tend to start closing up around 5 on weekdays. Seems to be best to visit morning to early afternoon."
Ryen Burzynski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Spitalfields Market is easily accessible via the London Underground. The nearest stations are Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines) and Shoreditch High Street (Overground). Numerous bus routes also serve the area.
Parking in the Spitalfields area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport to reach the market.
Taking the Tube to Liverpool Street Station is the most efficient way from central London. From there, it's a short walk to the market.
Yes, cycling is a great option. There are cycle racks available nearby, and it's a pleasant ride through East London.
The market is generally accessible, with flat pathways throughout the main hall. However, some smaller stalls might have limited space.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Old Spitalfields Market is free. You only pay for any purchases you make from the stalls or food vendors.
The market is typically open daily, but hours can vary. Generally, it's open from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and 10 AM to 5 PM on Sundays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
The market is usually open every day, including bank holidays, though hours might be reduced on some holidays. It's best to confirm before your visit.
While general entry is free, some special events or exhibitions held within the market may have separate ticketing requirements. Check event listings for details.
Information for prospective vendors is available on the official Old Spitalfields Market website, which outlines application processes and stall availability.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stalls
You'll find a diverse range of independent retailers selling apparel, accessories, jewelry, art, crafts, vintage items, and unique gifts.
Yes, the market is known for its vintage clothing stalls, offering a great selection of unique fashion finds.
Absolutely! Many stalls feature handmade crafts, artisanal products, and artwork from local designers and artists.
Yes, it's an excellent place to find unique, non-mass-produced souvenirs that reflect London's creative spirit.
Most stalls accept card payments, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market boasts a fantastic array of street food vendors offering global cuisines, from pulled pork bagels and fried chicken to noodles and grilled cheese.
Yes, many food stalls offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan options, catering to various dietary preferences.
Highly recommended are the pulled pork bagels, Bangkok-style fried chicken, and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.
While primarily a street food market, there are some cafes and eateries within or adjacent to the market offering sit-down options.
Prices vary, but many street food options are reasonably priced, with meals often available for under £15. Some unique activities like pottery painting are also affordable.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the market's Victorian architecture, vibrant stalls, and diverse people offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing details. Evenings can be atmospheric with market lights.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of vendors and shoppers, and ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
Look for the artisan crafts, colorful food displays, vintage camera stalls,
and the architectural details of the market hall itself.Yes, there's a dedicated camera stall selling vintage and film cameras, which is a unique subject for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider engaging kids with a pottery painting session at 'Our Play Studios', which provides a creative and hands-on activity. Exploring the craft stalls can also be an adventure, with unique toys and colorful items to discover. Just be prepared for crowds during peak times and keep a close eye on little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
For a particularly budget-friendly activity, consider the pottery painting session, which is priced around £7. Exploring the market itself is an experience that costs nothing. By focusing on street food and browsing the diverse stalls, you can enjoy a full day out without breaking the bank.
couples
For a more interactive date, consider a pottery painting session together, creating a shared memory and a personalized keepsake. The lively atmosphere and variety of offerings make it a dynamic and enjoyable outing for any couple looking for something a bit different.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Journey Through Spitalfields
Beyond the popular choices, explore stalls offering everything from spicy Sichuan noodles to fresh seafood and sweet treats. Many Reddit users recommend exploring the surrounding Brick Lane area for additional culinary adventures, including famous bagel shops. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for a tasty bite, Spitalfields Market promises a delightful gastronomic experience.
When planning your visit, consider going during off-peak hours on weekdays to enjoy the food stalls with fewer crowds. This allows you to savor the flavors and interact with the vendors more easily. Remember to bring an appetite and an open mind to discover your new favorite dish!
Shopping for Unique Finds
For those with a passion for photography, the market even features a dedicated camera stall selling vintage and film cameras, a unique draw for enthusiasts. Beyond the main market hall, the surrounding streets of Spitalfields and nearby Brick Lane offer even more independent boutiques and vintage shops, expanding your shopping possibilities. This area is a hub for creative fashion and unique finds, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the ordinary.
When exploring the stalls, take your time to browse and chat with the vendors. Many are passionate about their craft and happy to share insights into their products. This personal connection often enhances the shopping experience and helps you discover items you might otherwise overlook.
Beyond the Market: Activities and Experiences
For those interested in vintage photography, the market's camera stall is a unique destination. It’s a place where you can find classic cameras and photography gear, appealing to both collectors and aspiring photographers. The vibrant atmosphere of the market itself, with its mix of people and products, also makes for an engaging environment to simply explore and soak in the East London vibe.
These additional activities contribute to Spitalfields Market's appeal as more than just a place to shop or eat; it's a destination for experiences. Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or a unique hobby, there's something to pique your interest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit