Bermondsey Antique Market: London's Historic Treasure Trove
Discover timeless treasures and rich history every Friday at Bermondsey Antique Market, London's oldest and most vibrant antiques hub.
Bermondsey Antique Market, located in Bermondsey Square, London SE1, is the UK's oldest antiques market, operating every Friday from 6am to 2pm. It offers a rich variety of vintage and antique items including furniture, jewellery, silverware, and collectibles, attracting traders, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. The market blends historic charm with a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking unique treasures in a vibrant outdoor setting.
A brief summary to Bermondsey Antique Market
- Bermondsey Sq, London, SE1 3UN, GB
- +443333583688
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 6 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, ideally at the market’s 6am opening, to browse the best antiques and vintage items before the crowds.
- Bring cash as some stallholders may not accept cards, and be prepared to haggle politely for the best prices.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the market is mainly outdoors with some sheltered areas.
- Combine your visit with a Saturday trip to the Bermondsey farmers’ market nearby for fresh local produce and food.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge Station, approximately 15 minutes' walk from Bermondsey Square. Frequent trains run on the Northern and Jubilee lines, with fares starting around £2.50 using an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Bermondsey Square, including routes 47, 188, and 381. Buses run regularly with a journey time of 20-30 minutes from central London areas. Contactless payment or Oyster cards are accepted, with fares starting at £1.75.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central London to Bermondsey Square typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares from £10 to £20. Early morning trips before public transport starts may be more expensive.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Southwark or London Bridge, walking to Bermondsey Square is feasible within 20-30 minutes. The route is mostly flat and accessible, offering a pleasant urban stroll through historic neighborhoods.
Bermondsey Antique Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bermondsey Antique Market
A Storied Legacy in the Heart of Bermondsey
Bermondsey Antique Market stands on the historic grounds of Bermondsey Square, an area once home to the medieval Bermondsey Abbey. This market, also known as the New Caledonian Market, has been a fixture in London since relocating here in 1950 from Islington. It is celebrated as the oldest antiques market in the UK, carrying forward centuries of trading tradition. The market’s early opening hours, from 6am to 2pm every Friday, echo the ancient market overt laws that once allowed the trading of goods before dawn, a practice unique to this historic site.A Treasure Trove of Antiques and Curiosities
Visitors to Bermondsey Antique Market can expect an eclectic mix of antiques and vintage items. Stalls brim with everything from fine china, silverware, and jewellery to furniture, paintings, and unusual collectibles. The market is renowned for its diverse offerings, including antique clocks, books, garden antiques, and even rarities like antique stained glass and military memorabilia. Many stallholders are seasoned traders with decades of experience, often representing generations of families, ensuring expert knowledge and authentic finds.The Market Experience and Atmosphere
The market’s outdoor setting in Bermondsey Square creates a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, especially in the early morning when dealers and collectors gather to haggle and hunt for bargains. The lively environment is enhanced by the mix of local enthusiasts and international visitors, all drawn by the promise of discovering unique pieces. Despite its historic roots, the market remains a dynamic and social space, offering a blend of tradition and contemporary collector culture.Recent Challenges and Revitalization Efforts
Like many historic markets, Bermondsey Antique Market faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including temporary closure and a reduction in stall numbers due to building works. However, under new management since 2021, efforts have been made to revitalize the market, with plans to upgrade fixtures and expand stall availability. The market continues to attract over 30 stallholders regularly and is preparing to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2025, marking a significant milestone in its enduring legacy.Location and Surrounding Attractions
Situated in Southwark, Bermondsey Square offers more than just antiques. The area is rich in cultural heritage, close to landmarks such as Tower Bridge and the Fashion and Textile Museum. On Saturdays, the square transforms into a farmers' market, providing fresh local produce and artisanal foods, complementing the antique market's Friday offerings and making the location a lively weekend destination.Practical Details for Visitors
The market operates exclusively on Fridays from 6am to 2pm, with free admission. Early arrival is recommended to access the best selections and experience the market at its liveliest. While the market is primarily outdoor, some stalls are sheltered, and the surrounding area offers amenities such as cafes and seating. The market’s location in central London makes it accessible via public transport, though early travel options may be limited due to the market’s early start.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wakefield Tower
1.2 km
Medieval royal tower steeped in 13th-century splendor and tragic history within the Tower of London.
Roman Wall of Londinium
1.2 km
Explore the towering Roman Wall at Tower Hill, a striking relic that shaped London’s ancient cityscape and echoes 2,000 years of history.
1 Tower Hl Ter
1.3 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
Custom House
1.3 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
1.3 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
8-12 Tower Hill
1.3 km
Discover Tower Hill: Where London's Rich History Meets Modern Culture in the Heart of the City.
Tower Hill Memorial
1.4 km
Honouring 35,000 merchant seafarers with no grave but the sea—a dual memorial to two world wars.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
1.4 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
Tower Hill
1.4 km
Explore Tower Hill in London, where history meets stunning views and vibrant culture in the heart of the city.
Sundial at the Tower Hill
1.4 km
Discover the Sundial at Tower Hill, a picturesque spot in London where history and beauty meet, perfect for relaxation and photography.
Trinity Square
1.4 km
Historic formal gardens honouring maritime sacrifice amid London's ancient heart and architectural grandeur.
London Wall
1.4 km
Explore London Wall, an ancient Roman landmark revealing the rich history of Londinium amidst the modern cityscape of London.
Pudding Ln
1.4 km
Explore Pudding Lane, a historic London street where the Great Fire ignited, and discover the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the City.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
1.4 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
Fish St Hill
1.4 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fish St Hill in London, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bermondsey St
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Bermondsey Street in London, a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that captures the city's unique spirit.
Maltby Street Market
0.4 km
Discover Maltby Street Market, a vibrant weekend food haven beneath historic Bermondsey railway arches, offering global street food and artisan delights.
Ropewalk
0.4 km
Discover Ropewalk, the vibrant and historic heart of Maltby Street Market where London’s industrial charm meets world-class street food.
Southwark Brewing Company
0.4 km
Independent cask ale brewery in a Victorian railway arch, where trains rumble overhead and tradition meets innovation.
Brew By Numbers Tasting Room
0.6 km
Discover innovative craft beers and a relaxed vibe at Brew By Numbers Tasting Room, a must-visit for beer lovers in Bermondsey.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
0.6 km
A distinguished bronze tribute to Bermondsey’s first mayor, set near the iconic Tower Bridge in London’s historic South Bank district.
Potters Fields Park
0.8 km
A peaceful riverside park by Tower Bridge blending historic pottery heritage with vibrant gardens and iconic London views.
Shad Thames
0.8 km
Historic riverside charm meets modern luxury in Shad Thames, London’s iconic Victorian warehouse quarter by Tower Bridge.
Bridge Theatre
0.8 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in London’s innovative Bridge Theatre, where flexible design meets immersive performances by the Thames.
The Kernel Spa Road
0.8 km
Discover The Kernel Spa Road: London's vibrant brewery taproom blending craft beers with Japanese-inspired comfort food in a stylish industrial setting.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
0.8 km
Explore London’s iconic Tower Bridge with panoramic views, historic Engine Rooms, and a unique gift shop celebrating this engineering masterpiece.
More London Place
0.8 km
A vibrant riverside business and cultural precinct blending modern architecture with iconic Thames views near Tower Bridge.
The View from The Shard
0.9 km
Experience London’s highest panoramic views from the iconic glass spire of The Shard, with stunning 360-degree vistas and luxury amenities.
The Shard
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking views of London from The Shard, the tallest building in the UK, where modern architecture meets stunning landscapes.
English Grounds
0.9 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of English Grounds in London, a perfect escape into nature and culture amidst the vibrant city life.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.6 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
1.4 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
14 Hills
1.6 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
2.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
2.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Madison
2.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Sea Containers Restaurant
2.2 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
2.3 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
2.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
2.5 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
2.5 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
2.6 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Troia Southbank
2.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Southbank Centre Food Market
2.6 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Ping Pong Southbank
2.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tower of London Shop
1.2 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
1.3 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
The Royal Exchange
1.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
1 Poultry
1.9 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Bankside Arches Boutique
2.0 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
One New Change
2.1 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Middlesex Textiles
2.1 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
2.1 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
The Giftree London
2.2 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
2.2 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
2.2 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
2.2 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
2.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Fashion St
2.4 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Commercial St
2.4 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old School Yard
0.6 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Nine Lives
0.7 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
1.3 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.5 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
1.6 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
Moonshine Saloon
1.9 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
2.0 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Demon, Wise & Partners
2.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
The Midnight Apothecary
2.0 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
2.0 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Bell
2.1 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Lyaness
2.1 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Discount Suit Company
2.2 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
The Astronomer, EC1
2.3 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Dirty Dicks
2.3 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ministry of Sound
1.3 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
1.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Club 701
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
1.8 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
2.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
2.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
2.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
2.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
3.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Hoxton Pony
3.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
XOYO LONDON
3.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Union
3.1 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
3.1 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Heaven
3.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
