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Broadway Market, London: A Vibrant East End Food and Culture Hub

A vibrant East London street market blending historic charm with global street food, artisanal crafts, and a thriving community spirit.

Broadway Market is a lively Victorian street market in Hackney, East London, known for its eclectic mix of over 100 stalls offering global street food, artisanal goods, and independent boutiques. Operating primarily on weekends, it is surrounded by more than 70 shops, cafes, and restaurants open year-round, making it a vibrant community hub with a rich history dating back to Roman times.

A brief summary to Broadway Market

  • London, GB
  • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Arrive early on Saturdays before 11am for the freshest food and to avoid long queues at popular stalls.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent London Fields park for a relaxing outdoor experience.
  • Carry some cash for smaller purchases, although most vendors accept card payments.
  • Visit on Sundays for a slightly quieter market experience with a pared-back selection of stalls.
  • Explore the permanent shops, cafes, and restaurants along the street open throughout the week for a broader taste of the area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Overground to London Fields station, a 7-minute walk from Broadway Market, or Cambridge Heath station, about 8 minutes on foot. Frequent trains run throughout the day with fares typically ranging from £2.50 to £4.50 depending on your starting zone.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 26, 48, 55, 106, 254, 388, and D6, stopping near St. Joseph’s Hospice on Mare Street. Buses run regularly with fares around £1.75 per single journey using contactless or Oyster cards.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to Broadway Market. Travel times vary by traffic but typically take 15-30 minutes from central London. Expect fares from £10 to £25 depending on distance and time of day.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby, walking to Broadway Market is a pleasant option, especially from London Fields park. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point, with mostly flat and accessible terrain.

Broadway Market location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Broadway Market

A Historic East London Marketplace

Broadway Market traces its origins back to the 1890s, situated on a street that has been in use since Roman times. Originally a traditional fruit and vegetable market, it experienced decline in the late 20th century before being revitalized by local traders and residents in 2004. The market's Victorian roots remain visible, blending history with modern urban culture. It has also featured in several films, including David Cronenberg’s 2007 "Eastern Promises," adding to its cultural significance.

The Weekend Market Experience

The market bursts into life primarily on Saturdays from 9am to 5pm and Sundays from 10am to 4pm, when over 100 stalls offer a mouth-watering array of international street food, fresh produce, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Food stalls feature diverse cuisines such as Scottish toasties, Indonesian-Malay classics, Persian dishes, and much more. The atmosphere is bustling yet community-oriented, attracting food lovers, artists, and locals alike.

Year-Round Shops and Culinary Delights

Beyond the weekend stalls, Broadway Market is lined with more than 70 shops, cafes, and restaurants open seven days a week. Visitors can enjoy artisanal bakeries, cozy coffee shops like Climpson & Son, and a variety of dining options ranging from casual Japanese and Argentinian grills to traditional pubs such as The Dove and The Cat & Mutton, the latter offering views over London Fields park.

A Creative and Community-Driven Locale

Broadway Market is a magnet for East London's creative community, with independent boutiques selling everything from Japanese stationery to vintage books and handmade jewelry. The market fosters a strong sense of local identity and community spirit, despite some commercial changes over time. Its proximity to London Fields park adds a scenic backdrop, perfect for combining a market visit with outdoor leisure.

Practical Information for Visitors

The market operates year-round, but the full street market experience is reserved for weekends. Saturdays are the best time for the freshest food and widest selection, though it can get crowded. Many vendors accept card payments, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases. The market is accessible via London Fields and Cambridge Heath stations, with numerous bus routes serving the area.

Legacy and Cultural Footprint

Broadway Market’s blend of historic charm and contemporary vibrancy makes it a unique cultural landmark in London. Its evolution from a traditional market to a trendy foodie and artisan destination reflects the dynamic character of Hackney and East London. The market’s influence extends into popular culture and local lore, rumored to have inspired elements of the iconic TV series EastEnders.

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