Borough Market: London's Historic Culinary Heart
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Borough Market, located near London Bridge, is one of London's oldest and most vibrant food markets with a history spanning over 1,000 years. It offers a rich variety of fresh produce, specialty foods, and street food from local and international vendors. Open Tuesday through Sunday, the market is a lively hub for food lovers seeking quality ingredients and unique culinary experiences in a historic setting.
A brief summary to Borough Market
- London, GB
- +442074071002
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings, especially Tuesday or Wednesday, for a quieter experience and better interaction with vendors.
- Arrive early on Saturdays to enjoy the full lively atmosphere and secure popular fresh produce before it sells out.
- Check individual stall opening days in advance, as not all traders operate every day.
- Use public transport via London Bridge station for the easiest access; parking nearby is limited and subject to congestion charges.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to cobbled surfaces and expect some narrow passageways, especially during busy periods.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Reach Borough Market easily via London Bridge station, served by the Jubilee and Northern Tube lines plus mainline trains. Bus stops on Borough High Street and Southwark Street offer frequent connections. Travel time varies depending on your starting point within London, typically 10-30 minutes from central locations. Single fares range from £2.50 to £5.00 using contactless or Oyster cards.
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Car
Driving is possible but limited by nearby congestion charges and scarce parking. Several car parks such as Snowsfields NCP and Union Car Parks are within a 5-10 minute walk. Expect charges around £15-£25 for a day. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
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Bicycle
Bike racks are available within the market and on nearby streets like Southwark Street and Park Street. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, with cycle hire docks close by. Note that riding bikes inside the market is prohibited.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Borough Market is pleasant and accessible. The market is on mostly flat ground but includes some cobbled surfaces. Walking times vary but expect 10-20 minutes from London Bridge station or nearby neighborhoods.
Borough 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 Borough Market
A Millennium of Market Tradition
Borough Market's origins date back over a thousand years, making it one of the oldest food markets in Britain. Situated at the southern end of London Bridge, it has evolved alongside the city, reflecting London's growth from a small walled settlement to a bustling metropolis. Since 1756, the market has thrived in its current location, managed by a charitable trust dedicated to supporting community and sustainable food practices.A Food Lover’s Paradise
The market is divided into three main areas: Three Crown Square, home to larger producers and merchants; Green Market, featuring small specialist traders; and Borough Market Kitchen, bustling with street food vendors. Visitors can explore an extensive range of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, cheeses, artisanal breads, and international delicacies. Highlights include renowned stalls like The Black Pig, Bread Ahead, and the Oyster Bar, offering both raw ingredients and ready-to-eat delights.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Borough Market buzzes with energy, especially on Saturdays when it operates from 9am to 5pm and draws large crowds. Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday and Wednesday, offer a more relaxed pace, ideal for chatting with vendors and savoring the market’s vibrant colors and aromas. Sundays provide a leisurely atmosphere with shorter hours, perfect for families or those seeking a calm food browsing experience. The market’s historic cobbled surfaces and varied passage widths add to its unique charm, though visitors should be prepared for busy times and some accessibility challenges.Accessibility and Amenities
The market is laid out on a single ground-floor level, facilitating wheelchair access in public spaces, with fully accessible restrooms available during trading hours. While some restaurant buildings are multi-storey, the main market area avoids stairs and lifts. Nearby London Bridge station offers excellent public transport links, including the Jubilee and Northern Tube lines, plus mainline trains and numerous bus stops. Although there is no on-site parking, several car parks are within walking distance, and bike racks are available within the market.Opening Hours and Seasonal Variations
Borough Market operates Tuesday to Sunday, generally open from 10am to 5pm on weekdays, 9am to 5pm on Saturdays, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. It is closed on Mondays except during December when it opens daily for festive shopping. Individual trader presence may vary, so visitors are advised to check stall availability, especially during holidays. Admission is free, allowing visitors to wander and soak up the vibrant food culture without charge.Community and Sustainability Commitment
Managed by a charitable trust, Borough Market is committed to sustainable food production and ethical trading practices. It serves as a platform for local producers and artisans, emphasizing food quality, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. This ethos is reflected in the market’s diverse offerings and ongoing efforts to maintain a low-impact, eco-friendly environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.4 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
Historic England
0.6 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.6 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
Custom House
0.7 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.7 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
113 Cannon St
0.7 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth
0.8 km
Explore the historic IMPRINT Church London: St Mary Woolnoth, a stunning Anglican church offering a blend of spirituality, architecture, and community in the heart of London.
Queen Victoria St
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Queen Victoria Street, a historic thoroughfare in London, blending modern attractions with rich history.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.9 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
Watling St
0.9 km
Walk the ancient Roman road that shaped British history, from Boudica’s defeat to modern urban life.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
0.9 km
Discover the Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue near Tower Bridge, a captivating tribute to London's rich artistic heritage and history.
Cornhill Fountain
0.9 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
1 Tower Hl Ter
0.9 km
Historic urban landmark near Tower of London, blending centuries of British heritage with maritime memorials and modern city life.
8-12 Tower Hill
0.9 km
Discover Tower Hill: Where London's Rich History Meets Modern Culture in the Heart of the City.
Unmissable attractions to see
Southwark Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
Borough Yards
0.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.1 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
George
0.1 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
0.1 km
Step into Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre, hidden in a church attic, and explore the raw, pre-anaesthetic world of 19th-century surgery and herbal medicine.
Winchester Palace
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
0.2 km
Dive into 2,000 years of London’s darkest history and face your fears in the UK’s top horror attraction beneath London Bridge.
Lantern Ghost Tours
0.2 km
Discover London’s haunted past with Lantern Ghost Tours, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric pub stops near London Bridge.
Southwark View Point
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline from the vibrant South Bank’s premier open-air viewpoint.
The Clink Prison Museum
0.2 km
Step back into England’s darkest prison history at The Clink Prison Museum, where medieval justice and infamous inmates come alive.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.3 km
A poignant garden and memorial in London honoring the outcast dead, transforming a forgotten paupers’ graveyard into a place of remembrance and community.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.3 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
The Shard
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views of London from The Shard, the tallest building in the UK, where modern architecture meets stunning landscapes.
The View from The Shard
0.3 km
Experience London’s highest panoramic views from the iconic glass spire of The Shard, with stunning 360-degree vistas and luxury amenities.
London Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the historic London Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel offering breathtaking views and a gateway to the heart of London's vibrant culture.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Story
0.9 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Madison
1.0 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.0 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
14 Hills
1.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
1.0 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.2 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.6 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.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.7 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
1.8 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Wahaca Southbank
1.8 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.8 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.8 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
0.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
1 Poultry
0.9 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Traders Gate
0.9 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
0.9 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.9 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.0 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
One New Change
1.0 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.1 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 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
1.3 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
1.4 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Middlesex Textiles
1.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Barbican Shop
1.6 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
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
0.6 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Bootlegger
0.9 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.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.0 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.1 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Lyaness
1.2 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.3 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.3 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.
Black Parrot
1.4 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
1.4 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Bell
1.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Dirty Dicks
1.6 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.6 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
The Understudy
1.6 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.5 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.1 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
1.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.8 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
2.0 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.
E1
2.0 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
London Best Night Clubs
2.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.2 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
XOYO LONDON
2.2 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Hoxton Pony
2.3 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Heaven
2.4 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.
Carwash Nightclub
2.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
