Smithfield Market
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Smithfield Market is London’s oldest wholesale meat market, operating for over 800 years. Located in the heart of the City, it’s a historic hub where traders gather each night to buy and sell meat, housed in grand Victorian buildings designed by Sir Horace Jones. The market’s legacy is woven into London’s history, from medieval livestock fairs to modern-day commerce, and its atmosphere remains a unique blend of tradition and industry.
A brief summary to Smithfield Market
- Grand Ave, London, EC1A 9PS, GB
- +442072483151
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-7 am
- Tuesday 12 am-7 am
- Wednesday 12 am-7 am
- Thursday 12 am-7 am
- Friday 12 am-7 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience the market’s busiest hours and see the traders in action.
- Dress warmly, as the market is open at night and can be chilly, especially in winter.
- Respect the traders and follow hygiene regulations if you wish to enter the stalls.
- Explore the surrounding area, including St Bartholomew’s Hospital and the historic streets of Clerkenwell, for a fuller sense of Smithfield’s context.
- Check the market’s website for any special events or guided tours that may offer a deeper insight into its history and operations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Smithfield Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Smithfield Market
A Living Legacy of Trade
Smithfield Market stands as one of London’s most enduring institutions, with roots stretching back to the 12th century. Originally a smooth field just outside the city walls, it became a bustling livestock market where horses, cattle, and sheep were traded every Friday. Over the centuries, Smithfield evolved from an open-air market into a covered wholesale meat market, reflecting the city’s growth and changing needs. The grand Victorian buildings that dominate the site today were designed by Sir Horace Jones and opened in 1868, marking a new era of organized trade and modern infrastructure.Architecture and Innovation
The market’s architecture is a testament to Victorian ambition and engineering. The Central Meat Market, General Market, and Poultry Market buildings are arranged around a grand avenue, their iron and glass structures allowing for efficient movement of goods. Beneath the market, a network of railway tunnels once brought meat directly from across the country, a revolutionary feature for its time. The buildings have been carefully preserved and adapted, with temperature-controlled stalls and modern hygiene standards, ensuring that Smithfield remains a vital part of London’s food supply chain.Stories from the Past
Smithfield’s history is rich with tales of commerce, celebration, and even tragedy. The site hosted the famous Bartholomew Fair, a centuries-old festival of food, drink, and entertainment that drew crowds from across the city. It was also a place of public executions, where figures like William Wallace and Wat Tyler met their fate. The market’s legacy is not just one of trade, but of the social and cultural life of London, where the rhythms of the city have played out for generations.A Night Market Experience
Today, Smithfield Market operates as a wholesale hub, open from midnight to 7am, Monday to Friday. The atmosphere is electric, with traders unloading meat from articulated lorries and forklifts moving through the central avenues. The market is a tight-knit community, with families and businesses passing down their trade through generations. Visitors can witness the bustling activity, though access to the stalls is restricted to those in protective clothing, reflecting the market’s commitment to hygiene and safety.Modern Challenges and Future
Smithfield Market continues to adapt to the changing landscape of food commerce. The rise of supermarkets and new regulations have brought challenges, but the market remains a symbol of London’s resilience and tradition. Efforts to preserve its heritage and ensure its future are ongoing, with debates about its role in the city’s economy and culture. Smithfield’s story is far from over, as it continues to evolve while honoring its past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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St John's Gate
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Holy Sepulchre Church
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The Viaduct Tavern, EC1
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St Botolph’s-without-Aldersgate
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London dragon
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Essential places to dine
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Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
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Sarastro
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Margot
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Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smithfield Market
0.0 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
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Unique Gifts
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not just a shop
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The Store X
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Lively
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
