Billingsgate Market: London's Historic Seafood Hub
Experience the bustling heart of London’s seafood trade at Billingsgate Market, a historic wholesale hub alive with tradition and fresh catches.
Billingsgate Market in London’s Docklands is the UK’s largest inland fish market, operating since the 16th century. Open early mornings Tuesday to Saturday, it offers a vast selection of fresh seafood wholesale and to the public, with a lively atmosphere steeped in tradition and trade culture.
A brief summary to Billingsgate Market
- Trafalgar Way, London, E14 5ST, GB
- +442079871118
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 am-8:30 am
- Wednesday 4 am-8:30 am
- Thursday 4 am-8:30 am
- Friday 4 am-8:30 am
- Saturday 4 am-8:30 am
Local tips
- Arrive early between 4am and 6am for the best selection of fresh seafood and to witness the market at its liveliest.
- Children under 12 and pets are not permitted on the market floor for safety and hygiene reasons.
- Bring cash as many traders prefer it, and be prepared to buy seafood in bulk quantities rather than small portions.
- Wear non-slip, sturdy footwear due to wet and busy market conditions.
- Use nearby public transport options like Blackwall DLR or Canary Wharf Tube to avoid limited parking.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Billingsgate Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Billingsgate Market
A Legacy of London's Fish Trade
Billingsgate Market has been synonymous with London’s fish trade for centuries, evolving from a general goods market in medieval times to a dedicated fish market by the 16th century. Originally located near the Thames, it moved to its current 13-acre site in Poplar’s Docklands in 1982. This relocation positioned it close to major transport routes and the financial district, maintaining its vital role in supplying fresh seafood to London and beyond.Vibrant Wholesale and Public Market
Operating from 4am to 8:30am Tuesday through Saturday, Billingsgate bustles with traders, restaurateurs, and seafood lovers alike. The market features 98 stands and 30 shops, selling around 25,000 tonnes of fish annually. Though primarily a wholesale market, it welcomes public shoppers who can buy fresh seafood in bulk. The atmosphere is energetic, with calls and bartering echoing through the halls, capturing the essence of a traditional London market.Unique Shopping Experience and Traditions
Visitors experience a raw, authentic market environment where cash is king and buying is often in bulk quantities. Children under 12 and pets are not allowed on the market floor for safety and hygiene reasons. The market’s early hours mean the best catches are sold at dawn, with some traders packing up by 6:30am. Saturdays are popular with public visitors, often extending trading hours slightly later.Architectural and Cultural Setting
The current Billingsgate Market building, with its distinctive yellow roof, stands out amid the modern glass towers of Canary Wharf. It reflects a blend of industrial design and functional architecture tailored for wholesale trade. The market is a cultural landmark, rich with stories of generations of fishmongers and traders who have shaped London’s seafood supply chain.Future and Sustainability
Billingsgate is slated to relocate by 2028 to modern facilities outside central London, aiming to improve logistics and sustainability while preserving its historic trade community. The move reflects ongoing efforts to balance tradition with the demands of a competitive, regulated food supply environment, ensuring Billingsgate’s legacy continues in a new form.Visitor Amenities and Practicalities
The market provides essential amenities such as parking (with a fee), restrooms, and a café for refreshments. It’s accessible via nearby DLR stations (Blackwall and Poplar) and the Jubilee line at Canary Wharf. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear due to the market’s working environment and to prepare for early morning visits to catch the freshest seafood.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
2.2 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Anchor Iron Wharf
2.4 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
2.5 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
2.5 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Execution Dock
2.7 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
2.9 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
3.1 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
3.1 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Prime Meridian
3.3 km
Stand astride the historic Prime Meridian line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the birthplace of global time and navigation.
Execution Dock House
3.3 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
International House
3.4 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Royal Observatory Greenwich
3.4 km
Discover the Royal Observatory Greenwich, where history and astronomy collide in a breathtaking setting. Experience the Prime Meridian and explore fascinating exhibitions.
Ornamental Canal
3.4 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
3.7 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
3.8 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Unmissable attractions to see
West India Quay
0.7 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Canary Wharf
0.7 km
A striking blend of towering skyscrapers, rich history, and vibrant urban life at London’s premier financial district on the Isle of Dogs.
London Museum Docklands
0.8 km
Step into 400 years of London’s maritime history in a stunning riverside warehouse with interactive exhibits and free entry daily.
The O2
1.2 km
London’s premier entertainment destination blending world-class concerts, sports, dining, and vibrant nightlife under one iconic dome.
o2
1.3 km
Experience world-class concerts, sports, and entertainment at London's iconic O2 Arena, a vibrant hub on the Greenwich Peninsula.
Up at The O2
1.3 km
Climb the iconic roof of The O2 for an exhilarating 90-minute adventure with stunning 360° views over London’s skyline.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
1.3 km
Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.
North Greenwich Pier
1.6 km
Experience the stunning Thames views and vibrant atmosphere at North Greenwich Pier, your gateway to exploring London's riverside attractions.
Mudchute Park and Farm
1.6 km
Discover 32 acres of urban countryside, rare breeds, and family-friendly farm life in the heart of East London’s Isle of Dogs.
Emirates Aviation Experience
1.7 km
Experience the thrill of piloting iconic aircraft and explore the fascinating world of commercial aviation in London’s Emirates Aviation Experience.
City Hall
2.0 km
Explore London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a beacon of sustainable governance and modern architecture in the vibrant Royal Docks.
Ratcliff Beach
2.0 km
Discover Ratcliff Beach, a hidden pebble shore on the Thames with stunning Canary Wharf views and rich maritime history in East London.
Ragged School Museum
2.1 km
Explore Victorian East End life and the pioneering free education movement at London’s Ragged School Museum, housed in historic canal warehouses.
Greenwich
2.1 km
Where time begins: stand on the Prime Meridian, explore maritime history, and enjoy panoramic views over the Thames in this UNESCO World Heritage riverside district.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
2.1 km
A historic Victorian cemetery transformed into a tranquil nature reserve and green sanctuary in East London’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Midpoint Restaurant
2.4 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
2.6 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Sefa Restaurant
2.6 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Goddards at Greenwich
2.8 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
2.8 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
2.8 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
2.8 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
3.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
3.4 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Da Terra Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Nomadic community
4.3 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
4.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
4.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Restaurant Story
4.5 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
4.5 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
2.6 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
2.7 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Rare Books & Curios
2.8 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Made in Greenwich
2.8 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
2.8 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
2.8 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
2.8 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
Joli Vintage Living
2.8 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Junk Shop
3.2 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
La Boutique Vintage
3.7 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Westfield Stratford City
4.0 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westfield Stratford City, London's premier destination for fashion, food, and fun.
Backyard Market
4.4 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Fashion St
4.4 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
4.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
4.4 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eighteen Sky Bar
0.9 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
All Bar One Greenwich
1.3 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Td 338 Bar
1.7 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Greenwich Town Social Club
2.6 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
The Gipsy Moth
2.7 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
The Midnight Apothecary
2.8 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Mindful Mixology
2.8 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
Kings Arms
2.8 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
3.0 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
The Lost Hour
3.1 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
The Sun Tavern
3.9 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Satan's Whiskers
4.0 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
4.1 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
4.4 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
The Bell
4.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
0.9 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
American Express Invites Lounge
1.2 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
LA Lounge
2.1 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
E1
3.4 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Bunker
3.6 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Venue
3.8 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
The Hatch Club
3.8 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
CQ LOUNGE
4.2 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Hoxton Pony
5.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
5.2 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Trafik
5.2 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Steel Yard
5.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
5.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Ministry of Sound
6.1 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly