Borough Market: London's Historic Culinary Heart
Discover London's oldest food market where a millennium of tradition meets vibrant culinary delights in the heart of SE1.
Borough Market, located in London SE1, is one of the city's oldest and most vibrant food markets, offering a rich variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food. Open six days a week with extended hours on Saturdays, it blends historic charm with a lively atmosphere, attracting food lovers from around the world. Its location near London Bridge makes it easily accessible, and its diverse stalls showcase local and international flavors in a bustling market 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 early on Saturdays to avoid crowds and secure popular treats like Bread Ahead doughnuts before they sell out.
- Weekday mornings from Tuesday to Friday offer a more relaxed atmosphere for exploring and engaging with traders.
- Bring an empty stomach and a flexible budget to fully enjoy the wide range of artisanal and international foods.
- Use public transport to reach the market, as onsite parking is unavailable and nearby car parks can fill up quickly.
- Check the market’s website for seasonal opening hours and special events, especially around holidays.
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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Train and Underground
Travel to London Bridge station served by mainline trains and the Northern and Jubilee Underground lines. From the station, the market is a short walk. Train travel times vary depending on origin; from central London, expect 10-25 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London travel cards. Frequent service throughout the day.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near Borough Market on Southwark Street, Borough High Street, and London Bridge. Buses run regularly with travel times depending on starting point, typically 15-40 minutes from central London. Use Oyster or contactless payment for fares.
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Bicycle
Secure bike racks are available within the market area, with cycle hire docks nearby on Southwark Street and Park Street. Cycling is a convenient and eco-friendly option, especially during off-peak hours.
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Car
There is no onsite parking at Borough Market. Nearby public car parks such as Snowsfields NCP and Union Car Parks are within walking distance. Expect parking fees around £5-£15 for a few hours. The market lies within the London Congestion Charge zone, so additional charges may apply.
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 trace back over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest markets in Britain. Originally established near London Bridge, it has evolved through centuries of London's growth from a small walled city to a sprawling metropolis. The current market site has been in use since 1756, after authorities relocated the market to reduce street congestion. Today, it operates under a charitable trust dedicated to community benefit, preserving its historic legacy while adapting to modern food culture.A Food Lover's Paradise
The market is divided into distinct areas: Three Crown Square hosts larger producers and wholesalers; Green Market features specialist small-scale traders; and Borough Market Kitchen offers a vibrant street food scene. Visitors can find everything from organic fruits and vegetables to fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international delicacies. Signature stalls like Bread Ahead with its famed doughnuts and Brindisa's Spanish chorizo rolls highlight the market’s culinary diversity. The market’s mission emphasizes quality, sustainability, and pleasure in eating.Atmosphere and Experience
Borough Market buzzes with energy, especially on Saturdays when it is busiest from 9am to 5pm. Weekdays from Tuesday to Friday offer a more relaxed pace between 10am and 5pm, ideal for leisurely browsing and chatting with traders. Sundays provide a quieter, family-friendly environment until 4pm. The market’s cobbled floors, historic buildings, and colorful stalls create a unique sensory experience filled with enticing aromas, vibrant colors, and the lively hum of a community hub.Accessibility and Amenities
Conveniently located adjacent to London Bridge station, Borough Market is easily reachable by train, underground, bus, and bike. The market is laid out on a single ground-floor level with accessible restrooms available at multiple locations, making it wheelchair friendly despite some cobbled surfaces. While there is no onsite parking, several nearby car parks serve visitors. Dogs on leads are welcome, though some eateries may restrict pet access inside.Seasonal Variations and Events
The market’s offerings shift with the seasons, showcasing fresh, local produce and seasonal treats. December sees extended opening hours with daily operation for festive shoppers. Throughout the year, Borough Market hosts food-related events and official guided tours that deepen visitors’ appreciation of its culinary heritage. Its commitment to sustainability and community engagement remains central to its identity.Surrounding Attractions and Cultural Context
Borough Market sits at the gateway to London’s South Bank, near landmarks such as the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London. It serves as a perfect stop for food lovers exploring the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The market’s blend of historic significance and contemporary vibrancy embodies London’s dynamic spirit and gastronomic excellence.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.1 km
Historic riverside dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde replica and steeped in medieval maritime heritage.
Southwark Bridge
0.4 km
Historic cast-iron Southwark Bridge links London’s City and Southwark with striking architecture and rich river heritage.
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.
Fish St Hill
0.6 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fish St Hill in London, a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the capital's rich heritage.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.6 km
Explore the Monument to the Great Fire of London, a stunning landmark that offers a glimpse into the city's resilient past and breathtaking views of the skyline.
Pudding Ln
0.6 km
Discover the historical heart of London at Pudding Lane, where the Great Fire ignited and the story of resilience began.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.6 km
Discover the serene charm of St Michael's Church, a historic Anglican church in London, where architectural beauty meets spiritual tranquility.
Custom House
0.7 km
A historic landmark on the Thames, Custom House embodies centuries of trade, empire, and transformation, with its grand architecture and riverfront views captivating all who visit.
Billingsgate Roman House & Baths
0.7 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage at Billingsgate Roman House & Baths, a fascinating museum revealing ancient life in the heart of London.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.7 km
Explore the captivating London Stone, a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of London's ancient past.
113 Cannon St
0.7 km
Explore the architectural beauty of 113 Cannon Street, where history meets modernity in the heart of London's financial district.
City of London
0.8 km
Experience the captivating blend of history and modernity in the City of London, where iconic landmarks meet vibrant culture and culinary delights.
Trinity Church Square
0.8 km
Discover the serenity of Trinity Church Square in London, a historic oasis of beauty and tranquility amidst the vibrant urban landscape.
20 Fenchurch St
0.8 km
Iconic London skyscraper with a unique top-heavy design, featuring the Sky Garden — a free public rooftop oasis with panoramic city views and dining.
Lombard St
0.8 km
Discover Lombard Street, London's crookedest street, adorned with stunning flowerbeds and rich history, perfect for a memorable stroll 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.
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 12th-century bishop’s grand London residence with its iconic rose window overlooking 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.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.4 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Red Cross Garden
0.4 km
A historic Victorian pocket park in Southwark offering tranquil green space, heritage cottages, and a wildlife pond in the heart of London.
Bankside
0.4 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
George
0.1 km
Step into centuries of history at The George, a vibrant pub and restaurant in the heart of Southwark, London.
Restaurant Story
0.9 km
Experience the pinnacle of fine dining at Restaurant Story in London, where each dish narrates a unique tale of British culinary heritage.
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
A lush, sky-high forest with panoramic views and creative cuisine in the heart of London.
La Dame de Pic London
1.0 km
Experience Anne-Sophie Pic’s masterful French cuisine in a historic London landmark, blending tradition with modern artistry for an unforgettable fine dining journey.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover exquisite modern British cuisine at Sea Containers Restaurant along the Thames River—an unforgettable dining experience in London.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.4 km
Savor gourmet burgers and crafted cocktails at Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar on London's vibrant Southbank.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant in London - a vibrant spot for tapas lovers!
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.5 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese in London – where every dish tells a story.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese udon noodles at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street – where tradition meets modern taste in London's vibrant culinary scene.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Brasserie Blanc - Southbank, where delightful flavors meet stunning riverside views in London.
The Archduke
1.8 km
Experience premium steaks and fine wines at The Archduke, a top-notch restaurant near London's South Bank.
Wahaca Southbank
1.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Wahaca Southbank – where vibrant cuisine meets stunning riverside views in London.
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
Experience vibrant Asian fusion cuisine at Ping Pong Southbank—where delightful dim sum meets stunning riverside views in London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Borough Yards
0.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, a lively London district blending historic railway arches with cutting-edge shopping, dining, and culture near Borough Market.
Hay's Galleria
0.5 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
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
Explore Traders Gate, a family-run gift shop in London offering unique souvenirs and local crafts, perfect for every tourist's memento.
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
Explore Bankside Arches Boutique for unique gifts, aromatherapy products, and handcrafted jewelry in the heart of London's Blackfriars Station.
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
Explore SUCK UK Alternative Gifts in the iconic Oxo Tower, a treasure trove of quirky homewares and innovative gifts perfect for every occasion.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 km
Explore the Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop in London's Oxo Tower Wharf for unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate local artistry.
j-me original design ltd
1.3 km
Explore j-me original design ltd, a unique gift shop in London offering innovative and stylish products perfect for souvenirs and thoughtful presents.
Sugar And Style
1.4 km
Explore Sugar And Style, a charming fashion accessories shop in London's Gabriel's Wharf, offering unique pieces to complement your style.
Middlesex Textiles
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant world of African textiles at Middlesex Textiles, London’s premier destination for unique fabrics and cultural heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old School Yard
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at The Old School Yard, a must-visit bar in the heart of London for tourists and locals alike.
Nine Lives
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant mix of handcrafted cocktails and authentic tacos at Nine Lives near London Bridge, the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.7 km
Discover a cocktail lover's paradise at The Cocktail Club near Monument, featuring innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere in the heart of London.
The Bootlegger
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Bootlegger, a live music bar with exceptional cocktails and unforgettable performances.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.0 km
Discover the charm of Doggett's Coat and Badge, a historic pub on London's South Bank offering delicious cuisine and stunning river views.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.1 km
Experience the best of London's cocktail culture at Demon, Wise & Partners, where innovative drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Lyaness
1.2 km
Experience the art of mixology at Lyaness, London's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.3 km
Experience the magic of innovative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Alchemist Bevis Marks, London's premier cocktail bar.
Black Parrot
1.4 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at the Black Parrot, London's premier cocktail bar known for its exquisite drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
The Bell
1.5 km
Experience authentic British hospitality at The Bell, a traditional pub in the heart of London, serving delightful food and local ales.
Dirty Dicks
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Dirty Dicks Pub in London, where classic British hospitality meets a lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
The Astronomer, EC1
1.6 km
Discover the inviting charm of The Astronomer Pub, a delightful blend of tradition and modernity in the heart of London.
The Understudy
1.6 km
Experience the charm of The Understudy, a vibrant pub in London’s Southbank offering delicious British cuisine and a cozy atmosphere near the best theatres.
Discount Suit Company
1.6 km
Discover the hidden charm of Discount Suit Company, a unique cocktail bar in London offering exquisite drinks and an unforgettable ambiance.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town
1.6 km
Discover the whimsical charm of The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, London’s unique cocktail bar offering delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
