Avoid the more touristy markets of Covent Garden, Camden or Portobello Road when you visit London. Find your local one to explore. Here I look at the eclectic London’s East Street Market.
East Street Market is located in South London – London Borough of Southwark to be exact. Being British, I never tend to be a tourist in my own country but when visiting, I have decided to start to rectify this a little and thought a visit to the less touristy London Market’s was in order – in particular a visit to East Street Market in London.
Alternative London Markets – East Street – One of London’s oldest and busiest
Apparently there’s always been a market of some sort in East Street since the 16th Century. Farmers used to bring their livestock to Walworth Common to sell them on. Nowadays you can buy anything from lingerie to fresh fruit, wigs and clothes.
The day I went to East Street Market in London, the heavens decided to open up on me (I hadn’t been lucky with the weather this visit to London). A raincoat was needed! I hunted down a great one, all for the grand total of…8 quid! (£8.00).
It’s eclectic with all sorts of things on offer. I didn’t think these tight pants would fit me to be honest.
- Looking for somewhere to stay in London? Then check out my experience of Luxury Serviced Apartments in the capital, and also a luxury stay on a canal boat in Little Venice.
Alternative London Markets – East Street, a bustling place
East Street Market is open every day except Monday’s – from 8am to 5pm, Saturday’s 8am to 6:30pm and Sunday’s 8am to 2pm. It’s a busy, eclectic place with people shopping for all sorts of reasons – and don’t forget the shops and cafe’s along the edge of the road too.
For a real taste of London life, I would suggest seeking out places like East Street Market – you won’t find many tourists there – it’s a real slice of London life.
Tube line: Elephant and Castle
Buses that stop there: 12, 35, 40, 45, 68, 148, 171, 176, 343 & 468.
Things to do in London
- Looking for some more suggestions of things to do in London? Then check out Unique London Walking Tours – walking tours around various boroughs of the capital with a social conscience.
- Or how about spoiling yourself with a High Tea at the Berkeley Hotel? It’s in Kensington, very near Harrods. Never mind the Ritz or Savoy – this is a fashionable alternative.
- For foodies, take an East End Food Tour with Eating Europe. I loved my Paris Food Tour and think it’s a great way to experience any city.
- And, of course, there’s the more touristy attractions of Experiencing the London Eye (which I recommend everyone does at least once) and The Shard.
Enjoy your time in Britain’s capital.
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Oh, this looks great. I love London markets, must put this on my list for the next visit.
Esther.
Great Esther – glad I’ve inspired you. It certainly is worth checking out some of #London’s lesser known markets.
I have never been to this part of London, seems to pin the point next time I visit…
Thank you