What is it?
Open seven days a week, Old Spitalfields Market is one of east London’s busiest shopping hubs. Built in the 1800s, the structure was refurbished and rejuvenated in the early 2000s and is now one of the capital’s most unique shopping, eating and drinking destinations. Circling the giant roofed market are numerous permanent boutiques, eateries and salons, from many big brands such as Deciem, & Other Stories, Dr Martens and Diptyque, but it’s the heart of the market that’s the most exciting. You’ll find traders selling arts, crafts, clothing and sustainable homewares in the two central concourses. And, of course, no London market is complete without food and Old Spitalfields Market has more than its fair share of restaurants and street food vendors. Grab a gloriously succulent burger to go from Bleecker, soup dumplings from Dumpling Shack, halal and vegan tacos from Dos Mas Tacos or Japanese deserts from Fuwa Fuwa.
Why go?
For a market that you can mooch any day of the week, come rain or shine.
Don’t miss
On Thursdays you’ll also encounter the weekly antiques market, with around 80 stalls selling vintage maps, books, furniture, fashion and collectables. There’s also a market of rare and collectible vinyl on the first and third Friday of every month.
Tickets
No tickets needed.
When to visit
The market is open throughout the week from Mon-Fri 8am–11 pm and Sat-Sun 9am – 11pm
Time Out tip
Once you’ve secured your street food of choice, the steps of Christ Church Spitalfields or Christ Church Gardens nearby make for lovely spots to eat in the sunshine.
Recommended: London’s best markets