Old Spitalfields Market, London - Spitalfields market in London, January 2020.
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Old Spitalfields Market London

4.6
·9k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
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Old Spitalfields Market, London - Spitalfields market in London, January 2020.

Old Spitalfields Market London

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(9k reviews)

"A vibrant hub for foodies and shoppers seeking unique treasures and global flavors."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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 .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Food Delights

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

Artisan Crafts & Apparel

Independent boutiques and stalls

Discover unique handmade jewelry, clothing, art, and vintage finds from local designers and makers.

Pottery Painting Fun

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

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

Spitalfields Market can get busy, especially on weekends. Aim for weekdays or early mornings to explore the stalls at a relaxed pace. Don't miss the diverse street food options; many TikTok creators rave about the pulled pork bagels and fried chicken.TikTok+1

Beyond the Stalls: Unique Experiences

While known for shopping and food, Spitalfields offers more. Consider a pottery painting session for a fun solo or group activity.TikTok Camera enthusiasts can find vintage gear at the market's camera stall.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, food focus
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Bustling energy, full market
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Honest review of everything we tried at Spitalfields Market
@olibrandon
107.4K likes • 1.8M views

🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Hall

Venture into the surrounding streets for more hidden gems and eateries, especially around Brick Lane.Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Eats

Look for deals on street food; many stalls offer delicious options under £10.TikTok+1

Top 10 must visit markets in London. 🤩 What is your favorite? 🥯Borough Market: A bustling food market in London known for its gourmet produce, artisanal products. 🍕Old Spitalfields Market: A histori...
@volga_londonstories
81.9K likes • 1.8M views
Lunch at @fortunefriedchicken @oldspitalfieldsmarket Checking out the hottest new opening in Spitalfields market @fortunefriedchicken Bangkok style fried chicken burgers, incredible wings, and deli...
richard_lewis_eats_london
156 likes • 872 views

📸 Camera Gear Galore

Don't miss the camera stall for unique vintage finds and photography equipment.TikTok

🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist

Try pottery painting for a fun, affordable solo activity.TikTok

activity five: unguided pottery painting 🎨 this was such a cute little solo activity!! and only £7!! located in spitafields markets #thingstodoinlondon #london #londonactivities #artplay #potterypaint...
@thediaryofjen
76.2K likes • 863.6K views

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.Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Eats

Look for deals on street food; many stalls offer delicious options under £10.TikTok+1

📸 Camera Gear Galore

Don't miss the camera stall for unique vintage finds and photography equipment.TikTok

🎨 Unleash Your Inner Artist

Try pottery painting for a fun, affordable solo activity.TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

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

Diverse street food
Unique artisan crafts
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Some food prices

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.Reddit

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.TikTok

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.TikTok+1

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.TikTokInstagram+1

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.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, the market's Victorian architecture, vibrant stalls, and diverse people offer excellent photographic opportunities.TikTok

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,TikTok 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.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Spitalfields Market can be a fun outing for families, offering a variety of sights, sounds, and tastes. The diverse street food options mean there's likely something to please even picky eaters.TikTok+1 Look for stalls with kid-friendly options like grilled cheese or simpler bagel fillings. The open layout of the market makes it manageable with strollers, though it can get crowded on weekends.

Consider engaging kids with a pottery painting session at 'Our Play Studios',TikTok 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

Spitalfields Market is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Entry to the market is free, and you can find delicious and affordable meals from a wide range of street food vendors, often for under £10-£15.TikTok+1 Many of the independent stalls offer unique items at reasonable prices, making it possible to find souvenirs or gifts without overspending.

For a particularly budget-friendly activity, consider the pottery painting session, which is priced around £7.TikTok 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

Old Spitalfields Market offers a vibrant and engaging experience for couples. You can enjoy a culinary adventure together, sampling diverse street food from around the world.TikTok+1 It's a great place for a casual date, exploring unique stalls hand-in-hand, and discovering hidden gems in the craft and vintage sections.

For a more interactive date, consider a pottery painting session together,TikTok 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

Old Spitalfields Market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an incredible diversity of street food from around the globe. TikTok creators frequently highlight the market's culinary offerings, with specific praise for vendors like 'We Are Melt' for their brisket toasties and 'Dirty Bagels' for their pulled pork barbecue madness.TikTok+1 You can also find delicious fried chicken, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and a variety of international dishes, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or a food crawl.

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.Reddit 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

Spitalfields Market is a treasure trove for shoppers seeking unique, independent, and often handmade items. Unlike generic high street stores, the market champions local designers, artisans, and vintage sellers. You can discover everything from handcrafted jewelry and bespoke clothing to original artwork and quirky homeware. It's a fantastic place to find a special gift or a personal memento that tells a story.

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.TikTok 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

While the shopping and food are major draws, Old Spitalfields Market also offers engaging activities. For a creative and relaxing experience, 'Our Play Studios' within the market provides pottery painting sessions, a popular solo or group activity that's both fun and affordable.TikTok This offers a welcome break from browsing and a chance to create a personalized souvenir.

For those interested in vintage photography, the market's camera stall is a unique destination.TikTok 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.

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