London : Local Bazaars & Flea Markets
London's markets each have a best day and a distinct character, and turning up on the wrong one means stalls shut and crowds thin. The seven below run from vintage fashion and crafts (Camden, Brick Lane, Portobello) through antiques and design (Old Spitalfields, Greenwich) to flowers (Columbia Road) and food (Borough). Knowing what each sells and when it peaks is half the visit. Travjoy lists the strong days so you arrive when the market is full.
Which Market Suits Your Style?
- Want alternative fashion and street food daily? → Camden Market — busy daily, vintage and global food stalls.
- After vintage, curry houses, and Sunday buzz? → Brick Lane Market — best on Sundays, East End creative scene.
- Hunting antiques and the Notting Hill scene? → Portobello Road Market — Saturdays for the full antiques run.
- Prefer covered design, crafts, and food? → Old Spitalfields Market — daily, busiest Thursday to Sunday.
- Here mainly to eat? → Borough Market — produce and street food, closed most Mondays.
- Want a photogenic flower market? → Columbia Road Flower Market — Sundays only, mornings are calmest.
- Visiting Greenwich anyway? → Greenwich Market — crafts and food, strong at weekends.
If You Visit Only One — Editor's Pick
For a single market visit, the right pick depends on the day you have free. On a Sunday, choose Columbia Road Flower Market paired with Brick Lane — the two sit a short walk apart and show the East End at its liveliest. On a Saturday, choose Portobello Road, the most complete for antiques and atmosphere. Arrive before 11am at any of them, as the crowds thicken through the afternoon and the best stalls sell down. If you mainly want to eat rather than shop, Borough Market is the stronger choice.
