Old Spitalfields Market, London
Discover East London's vibrant blend of history, artisan crafts, and global street food beneath a stunning Victorian glass roof.
Old Spitalfields Market is a vibrant historic marketplace in East London, blending Victorian architecture with contemporary culture. It hosts a dynamic mix of independent designers, vintage stalls, artisan makers, and diverse street food vendors under a striking glass roof. Open daily, it offers themed markets including antiques, vinyl, and fashion, making it a hub for unique shopping and culinary experiences near Liverpool Street and Shoreditch.
A brief summary to Old Spitalfields Market
- 16 Horner Square, London, E1 6EW, GB
- +442073752963
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays during off-peak hours to enjoy a quieter shopping and dining experience.
- Explore themed market days like Thursdays for antiques and weekends for vintage and vinyl.
- Try a variety of street food at The Kitchens, open daily with diverse culinary options.
- Check the market’s event calendar for seasonal festivals and special activities.
- Use public transport for easy access; Liverpool Street station is just a 5-minute walk away.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Liverpool Street Station is the nearest major train station, approximately a 5-minute walk from Old Spitalfields Market. Frequent services connect to central London and surrounding areas. Tickets typically range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on distance and time.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near the market, including routes 8, 26, 35, 48, 78, 135, 149, 205, 242, and 388. Bus stops are located on Brushfield Street and Primrose Street. Buses run frequently with fares around £1.75 per journey using contactless payment.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby in Shoreditch or Liverpool Street areas, walking to the market is a pleasant option taking around 10 to 20 minutes on flat, accessible terrain. The route passes through lively East London streets, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Old Spitalfields 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 Old Spitalfields Market
A Historic Hub in East London’s Heart
Old Spitalfields Market sits at 16 Horner Square, London, within a beautifully preserved Victorian market hall. Established in the 17th century and granted a Royal Charter in 1682, it has evolved from a traditional trading spot into one of London’s most iconic markets. The market’s architecture reflects its rich heritage, with the grand glass roof allowing natural light to flood the bustling interior, creating an inviting atmosphere that honors its past while embracing modern vibrancy.Diverse and Dynamic Market Offerings
The market hosts over 70 stalls featuring a carefully curated blend of independent designers, vintage collectors, artisans, and food traders. Visitors can explore themed market days such as antiques on Thursdays, vinyl records, and fashion pop-ups throughout the week. This eclectic mix ensures a fresh experience on every visit, from handcrafted homewares and unique clothing to rare collectibles. The Kitchens section showcases contemporary and authentic street food, with renowned chefs offering flavors from around the world.A Culinary Destination for Food Lovers
Old Spitalfields Market is renowned for its vibrant food scene. The Kitchens, a dedicated street food area, offers a wide variety of cuisines in a relaxed setting, open seven days a week. From breakfast deals to gourmet dinners, the market caters to all tastes and dietary preferences. Food stalls and restaurants operate with flexible hours, often extending into the evening, making it a lively spot for both casual meals and social gatherings.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The market is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, lifts, and flat routes from nearby parking. Assistance dogs are welcome, and the market provides amenities such as restrooms and seating areas. Its central location between Liverpool Street and Shoreditch stations makes it easily reachable by public transport. The market’s layout encourages leisurely browsing and discovery, with sculptures and landscaped squares adding to its charm.Events and Seasonal Highlights
Throughout the year, Old Spitalfields Market hosts special events, including festive Christmas markets, Santa Saturdays, and themed weekends. These events enhance the shopping and dining experience with seasonal decorations, live entertainment, and exclusive offers. The market remains open during most bank holidays, with adjusted hours, providing a festive hub for locals and visitors alike.Community and Cultural Significance
Old Spitalfields Market is more than a shopping destination; it is a cultural landmark in East London’s creative and financial hub. It supports a community of lifelong traders alongside emerging brands, fostering a spirit of innovation and tradition. The market’s blend of history, art, food, and fashion reflects the diverse and dynamic character of the area, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic London experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northumbria University - London
0.3 km
Explore Northumbria University in London, where vibrant culture meets innovative education in the heart of the city.
182 Bishopsgate
0.4 km
Discover 182 Bishopsgate, where London’s ancient gateway history meets the vibrant pulse of the modern financial district.
Travelodge London Central Liverpool Street
0.5 km
Affordable comfort in the heart of East London, steps from Liverpool Street station and vibrant city attractions.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
0.6 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
St Christopher's Inn Liverpool Street
0.7 km
Budget-friendly hostel with a lively pub below, central to London’s financial district and Shoreditch’s creative energy.
30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin)
0.7 km
A striking, sustainable skyscraper in London’s financial heart, blending innovative design with panoramic city views and historic roots.
30 Saint Mary Axe - Swiss Re
0.7 km
Discover The Gherkin, London’s pioneering eco-friendly skyscraper with its iconic spiraling glass façade and panoramic city views.
Arnold Circus
0.7 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Shoreditch Church
0.8 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Lloyd's of London
0.9 km
A high-tech architectural masterpiece blending tradition and innovation in the heart of London’s financial district.
Threadneedle St
1.0 km
Historic Threadneedle Street: London’s iconic financial artery, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant intersection of commerce and culture at Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange in London's financial district.
St Olave's Church, Hart Street
1.0 km
Medieval survivor where Viking legend, plague history, and literary fame converge in a Gothic gem.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
1.0 km
Discover Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a historical cemetery in London, offering a peaceful escape and the final resting place of literary legends.
Cornhill Fountain
1.0 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spitalfields Market
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of history, art, and global flavors at Spitalfields Market, East London's iconic cultural and culinary hotspot.
Commercial St
0.1 km
A vibrant East London artery blending historic industry, lively markets, and evolving urban culture between Shoreditch and Whitechapel.
Sclater Street Market
0.1 km
Discover eclectic vintage finds, street food delights, and creative energy at Sclater Street Market in London’s dynamic East End.
Christ Church Spitalfields
0.1 km
Discover the architectural marvel and vibrant history of Christ Church Spitalfields, a must-visit Anglican church in the heart of London.
Spitalfields Charnel House
0.1 km
Discover the haunting medieval charnel house beneath Bishop’s Square, a rare glimpse into London’s past where thousands of souls rest beneath the modern city.
Dennis Severs' House
0.2 km
Step into a candlelit Georgian townhouse and journey through centuries of Spitalfields’ silk-weaving heritage in a uniquely immersive theatrical museum.
Spital Square
0.2 km
Discover Spital Square, a serene Georgian enclave in vibrant Spitalfields, where history and culture weave together in East London's heart.
Fashion St
0.2 km
Historic Fashion Street in Spitalfields blends East London’s rich past with contemporary creative life and urban renewal.
The Truman Brewery Markets
0.2 km
A vibrant East London cultural and culinary hotspot blending vintage markets, global street food, and creative community spirit in a historic brewery setting.
Brick Lane Mosque
0.3 km
Brick Lane Jamme Masjid: A historic mosque embodying centuries of faith, migration, and community in East London’s vibrant Spitalfields.
Dray Walk
0.3 km
Discover East London’s vibrant art scene at Dray Walk Gallery, a dynamic creative space within the iconic Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane.
Upmarket Brick Lane Food Hall
0.3 km
Discover a lively indoor market in East London offering diverse global street food and a vibrant cultural atmosphere at Brick Lane.
Princelet St
0.3 km
Step back into London’s rich immigrant past on Princelet Street, where Georgian heritage meets vibrant cultural history in Spitalfields.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
0.3 km
Explore the UK's largest vintage market in East London, a vibrant hub for retro fashion, unique collectibles, and cultural energy seven days a week.
The Truman Brewery
0.3 km
Historic East London brewery turned vibrant creative hub, blending rich heritage with markets, art, and culture on iconic Brick Lane.
Essential places to dine
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
0.3 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.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Lyle's
0.5 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
The Clove Club
0.9 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
0.9 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
14 Hills
0.9 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
1.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Brawn
1.1 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Madison
1.5 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
St. John
1.8 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Da Terra Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience dining like never before in total darkness, guided by visually impaired waitstaff in a sensory adventure at Dans le Noir ? London.
Restaurant Story
1.9 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
George
2.0 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
DPUS Designer Outlet
0.2 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Middlesex Textiles
0.4 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Luna & Curious
0.7 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
The Royal Exchange
1.1 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
Traders Gate
1.2 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.
1 Poultry
1.3 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Barbican Shop
1.3 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Tower of London Shop
1.3 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
One New Change
1.5 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Hay's Galleria
1.6 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.7 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Smithfield Market
1.8 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Borough Yards
1.9 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
0.3 km
Discover Shoreditch’s secret speakeasy behind a fridge door, where quirky vintage charm meets expertly crafted cocktails and lively 80s beats.
The Astronomer, EC1
0.3 km
A traditional London pub with a cosmic twist, offering hearty pies, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near Liverpool Street.
Discount Suit Company
0.3 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Dirty Dicks
0.3 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Bell
0.4 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
0.6 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
0.6 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Aviary
0.7 km
Elegant rooftop dining with botanical cocktails and panoramic London skyline views in the heart of Finsbury Square.
Ballie Ballerson London
0.8 km
Dive into London's most playful cocktail bar with glowing ball pits, inventive drinks, and unforgettable nights in Shoreditch.
Flight Club Shoreditch
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant social darts scene with great food, cocktails, and fun at Flight Club Shoreditch in East London.
Demon, Wise & Partners
0.9 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Shoreditch Balls
0.9 km
Indoor crazy golf, cocktails, and live entertainment combine for a fun-filled night out in Shoreditch’s vibrant heart.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
0.9 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
0.9 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
XOYO LONDON
1.0 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Basing House - Shoreditch
1.0 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
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.
E1
1.5 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
London Best Night Clubs
1.9 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Ministry of Sound
3.0 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Carwash Nightclub
3.1 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Proud Late
3.1 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.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
3.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Corsica Studios
3.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Cirque Du Soul
3.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
3.4 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
3.4 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
The Roxy
3.5 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
3.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
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
- Architectural Shots
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly