Mercato Metropolitano Elephant & Castle: London's Sustainable Food Haven
Discover London's largest sustainable community food market with global flavors, artisanal drinks, and vibrant cultural experiences at Mercato Metropolitano.
Mercato Metropolitano at Elephant & Castle is a sprawling, vibrant community food market in London, known for its sustainable ethos and diverse international cuisine. Spanning 17,000 square feet, it hosts over 40 independent food and drink traders in a lively setting that blends indoor warehouses and outdoor piazzas. This unique market offers fresh, locally sourced dishes alongside artisanal drinks, craft breweries, and cultural events, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and sustainability advocates alike.
A brief summary to Mercato Metropolitano
- 42 Newington Causeway, London, SE1 6DR, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 11 am-1 am
- Sunday 11 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays or early evenings to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Try a variety of international dishes from the many independent food stalls to experience the market’s global culinary diversity.
- Check the schedule for live music nights and special events to enhance your visit with entertainment.
- For groups of eight or more, book a table in advance online to secure seating.
- Explore the artisanal brewery and distillery offerings, including craft beers and small-batch gins.
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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Public Transport
Take the London Underground Northern or Bakerloo lines to Elephant & Castle station, approximately 5-10 minutes walk from the market. Frequent bus routes 12, 134, 343, 344, and 53 also stop nearby. Single fares start from £1.75 with contactless or Oyster card.
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Train and Bus
From London Bridge Station, take a short bus ride on routes 12 or 343 to Elephant & Castle, about 15-20 minutes total travel time. Train tickets vary by origin but average £5-£10 within central London.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London locations like Westminster or Covent Garden typically takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £10-£20.
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Walking
If staying nearby, the market is accessible on foot via well-paved urban routes. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point, with mostly flat terrain and good pedestrian infrastructure.
Mercato Metropolitano 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 Mercato Metropolitano
A Hub of Sustainable Culinary Diversity
Mercato Metropolitano Elephant & Castle is one of London’s largest sustainable community food markets, occupying a vast 17,000 square feet space that combines indoor and outdoor environments. Established with a mission to promote sustainability, it brings together over 40 independent traders offering a wide array of international cuisines. From fresh Italian pizzas and pastas to Argentine, Indian, Mexican, Thai, and Lebanese dishes, the market celebrates global flavors crafted with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond food, incorporating eco-friendly practices and community engagement.Eclectic Spaces and Vibrant Atmosphere
The market’s layout is eclectic and relaxed, featuring distinct areas such as outdoor piazzas, indoor warehouses, and a garden space with bars and ample seating. These varied settings create a versatile venue that accommodates everything from casual dining to private celebrations and brand activations. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, enhanced by live music events on Wednesday nights and a monthly antiques market, making it a cultural as well as culinary hotspot.Artisanal Drinks and Unique Experiences
Mercato Metropolitano is also home to a German craft brewery, a small-batch gin distillery, and a wine tasting room specializing in Italian wines. Visitors can enjoy craft beers, ciders, and curated wine selections alongside their meals. The market offers scheduled classes in its central kitchen, ranging from tortellini making to wine tasting and chocolate and gin experiences, enriching the visitor experience with hands-on culinary education.Community Engagement and Social Impact
Beyond being a food market, Mercato Metropolitano actively supports the local community through initiatives like free cookery classes for children, cooking training for refugees, and community lunches for isolated older residents. These programs emphasize healthy eating and sustainable food production, reinforcing the market’s role as a socially responsible hub.Accessibility and Operating Hours
Open seven days a week, Mercato Metropolitano operates from 12pm to 11pm Monday to Wednesday, extending later on weekends with closing times up to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. The market is easily accessible via Elephant & Castle tube station and several bus routes. While table bookings are not accepted for small groups, larger parties of eight or more can reserve seating online. The market’s size and layout provide a dynamic yet comfortable environment for visitors of all kinds.A Unique London Destination for Food and Culture
Mercato Metropolitano Elephant & Castle stands out as a pioneering sustainable food market in London, blending a rich diversity of cuisines with community values and eco-conscious practices. Its blend of artisanal food, craft beverages, cultural events, and social initiatives makes it more than just a market—it’s a vibrant, inclusive destination that reflects the city’s dynamic food culture and commitment to sustainability.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
1.2 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
South Bank Community Area
1.3 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
Blackfriars Bridge
1.3 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
Observation Point
1.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and iconic landmarks at Observation Point, a must-visit scenic attraction along the River Thames in London.
St James Garlickhythe
1.4 km
Wren's luminous masterpiece on Garlick Hill, where medieval history meets architectural brilliance and mystery.
Historic England
1.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr
1.5 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of Saint Magnus-the-Martyr, a historical gem in the heart of London.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
1.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
The London Dungeon
1.5 km
Explore London's haunting history at The London Dungeon, where thrilling rides and live performances bring the city's dark tales to life.
Southbank Boardwalk
1.5 km
Experience the charm of London's Southbank Boardwalk, a serene escape with stunning river views, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.
Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue
1.5 km
Discover the Samuel Bourne Bevington Statue near Tower Bridge, a captivating tribute to London's rich artistic heritage and history.
Southbank Centre
1.5 km
Explore London's vibrant cultural hub at Southbank Centre, where art, music, and creativity come alive along the River Thames.
Queen Victoria St
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Queen Victoria Street, a historic thoroughfare in London, blending modern attractions with rich history.
South Bank Lion
1.5 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
30 The Queen's Walk
1.5 km
Discover the scenic beauty and vibrant life along the Queen's Walk, a must-see riverside promenade in London with stunning views and cultural attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ministry of Sound
0.1 km
Unleash your nightlife experience at Ministry of Sound in London, where world-class DJs and vibrant parties come alive in a legendary setting.
Trinity Church Square
0.3 km
Tranquil historic garden square in London with a Roman-rooted statue and a classical music rehearsal church at its heart.
St George the Martyr, Southwark
0.5 km
Discover St George the Martyr, a historic Georgian church in Southwark with over 900 years of rich history and architectural heritage.
Red Cross Garden
0.6 km
A historic Victorian pocket park in Southwark offering tranquil green space, heritage cottages, and a wildlife pond in the heart of London.
Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Imperial War Museum
0.8 km
Explore six floors of powerful exhibits revealing the human stories behind modern warfare at London’s Imperial War Museum.
George
0.9 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
The Old Vic
0.9 km
Historic London theatre renowned for Shakespearean heritage and vibrant contemporary performances since 1818.
Borough Yards
0.9 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Borough Market
1.0 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Roupell St
1.0 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
London Bicycle Tour Company
1.0 km
Explore London's landmarks and hidden streets on two wheels with expert local guides and quality bikes.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
1.0 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.
Rose Theatre Trust
1.0 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
Essential places to dine
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.3 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
1.3 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.4 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.4 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Troia Southbank
1.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
The Archduke
1.4 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
OKAN South Bank
1.4 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Ping Pong Southbank
1.5 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.5 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Restaurant Story
1.5 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Strada Southbank
1.5 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Wahaca Southbank
1.6 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
wagamama southbank
1.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Madison
1.7 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Bustronome London
1.9 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Giftree London
1.0 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Bankside Arches Boutique
1.2 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
j-me original design ltd
1.3 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.3 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.3 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
Hay's Galleria
1.3 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Sugar And Style
1.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Browns of London
1.5 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
1.5 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
1.5 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
1.6 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
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.
Tower of London Shop
1.7 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
One New Change
1.7 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
1 Poultry
1.7 km
Iconic postmodern office and retail building with vibrant limestone stripes, a colorful atrium, and a rooftop garden overlooking London’s financial district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old School Yard
0.8 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
1.2 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Lyaness
1.2 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
1.2 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Nine Lives
1.3 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
1.3 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Primo Bar, London
1.3 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
1.4 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
All Bar One Waterloo
1.4 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
The Understudy
1.5 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
1.5 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Le Champagne Bar
1.5 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
1.5 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
1.6 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
1.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Corsica Studios
0.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.3 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.3 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
The Steel Yard
1.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.8 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Proud Late
1.9 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.
Heaven
2.1 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Union
2.1 km
Vauxhall's relentless nightclub heartbeat: techno-fueled nights stretching to dawn in multi-zone bliss along the Thames.
Bootylicious London last Saturday of the month
2.1 km
Late-night Vauxhall institution for raw techno, queer-focused party nights and after-hours clubbing on Albert Embankment.
Lightbox London
2.3 km
Dive into dazzling LED realms at Vauxhall's electrifying nightclub, where lights, beats, and all-night energy create unforgettable weekend escapes.
Fire Nightclub
2.3 km
Vauxhall's railway arch behemoth: all-night house marathons, go-go dancers, and dawn-defying beats in London's gay club epicenter.
TSQ Club
2.4 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Carwash Nightclub
2.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
2.5 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Industrial
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly