Background

The Truman Brewery Markets on Brick Lane, London

A vibrant East London cultural and culinary hotspot blending vintage markets, global street food, and creative community spirit in a historic brewery setting.

4.5

The Truman Brewery Markets, located on Brick Lane in East London, are a vibrant hub of culture, food, and shopping housed in a historic brewery complex. This dynamic market destination offers a rich mix of vintage clothing, antiques, international street food, and creative retail stalls. Open daily with weekend highlights, it attracts locals and visitors seeking unique finds and lively atmosphere in Shoreditch’s artistic heart.

A brief summary to The Truman Brewery Markets

  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekends to experience the full range of markets including vintage, street food, and artisan stalls.
  • Try the famous Brick Lane Beigel Bake for authentic Jewish bagels available 24/7.
  • Explore Ely’s Yard for a variety of international street food trucks offering unique flavors.
  • Bring cash for smaller stalls, though many accept cards; check opening hours as some markets close earlier on weekdays.
  • Combine your visit with nearby vintage shops like Rokit and Rough Trade East for a full East London shopping experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Overground to Shoreditch High Street station, a 5-minute walk to the Truman Brewery. Alternatively, use the London Underground Aldgate East station, about a 9-minute walk. Both stations are well connected to central London and serviced by frequent trains. Expect travel times from central London of 15-30 minutes, with standard fare zones applying.

  • Bus

    Several London bus routes serve Brick Lane, including routes 8, 26, 35, and 47. Buses run frequently throughout the day with travel times varying by traffic, typically 20-40 minutes from central London. Bus stops are within a short walk of the Truman Brewery, though some routes may have limited service late at night.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services like Uber provide direct access to the Truman Brewery Markets. Travel time from central London is approximately 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. Costs typically range from £10 to £25. Note that parking in the area is limited and traffic congestion is common, especially on weekends.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby in Shoreditch or Spitalfields, walking to the Truman Brewery is a pleasant option, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing through vibrant streets filled with street art and independent shops.

The Truman Brewery Markets location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of The Truman Brewery Markets

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Truman Brewery Markets

A Historic Transformation into a Creative Marketplace

The Truman Brewery, originally established in the 19th century as one of London’s largest breweries, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant cultural and commercial hub. Situated at 91 Brick Lane, this former industrial site now pulses with creative energy, hosting a variety of markets, events, and independent boutiques that celebrate East London’s eclectic spirit. The brewery’s industrial chic architecture, with its raw brickwork and spacious interiors, provides a distinctive backdrop that honors its heritage while fostering innovation.

Diverse Markets and Shopping Experiences

Within the Truman Brewery complex and along Brick Lane, visitors can explore several specialized markets. The Brick Lane Vintage Market is the largest vintage market in the UK, offering over 100 shops with fashion ranging from 1920s glamour to Y2K streetwear. The Upmarket is a bustling international street food market open daily, featuring over 200 stalls with global cuisines including vegan Ethiopian lentils, Japanese shaved ice, and pulled beef arepas. Other markets such as Backyard Market and The Tea Rooms offer unique jewellery, antiques, homeware, and retro furniture. These markets operate mostly on weekends but many are open throughout the week, providing a continuous flow of creative retail and culinary delights.

A Culinary Destination with Global Flavors

Brick Lane and the Truman Brewery Markets are renowned for their diverse food offerings. Street food trucks and stalls line Ely’s Yard, serving an array of international dishes from smoky barbecue to freshly made pasta. The area is also famous for its curry houses, including iconic establishments like Aladin Brick Lane, known for Balti and tandoori dishes. For a quick bite, Brick Lane Beigel Bake offers 24/7 access to traditional Jewish bagels. This culinary diversity complements the shopping experience, making the markets a popular destination for food lovers.

Community and Cultural Significance

The Truman Brewery is more than a market space; it is a community focal point that supports local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. It hosts cultural events such as the annual London Coffee Festival and various art fairs, fashion shows, and music venues. The space encourages creative collaborations and reflects the multicultural character of Shoreditch and Spitalfields. This community engagement enhances the market’s atmosphere, offering visitors an immersive experience of East London’s vibrant urban culture.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Visitors to the Truman Brewery Markets are greeted by a lively, buzzing environment filled with the sounds of street musicians, the aromas of international cuisine, and the visual feast of vintage and contemporary fashion. The mix of historic industrial architecture and colorful market stalls creates a unique aesthetic that appeals to photographers, fashion enthusiasts, and casual shoppers alike. The markets are accessible year-round, with peak activity on weekends, providing a dynamic setting for discovery and socializing.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The markets operate daily with varying hours: the main Sunday street market runs from 10am to 6pm, while other markets like Upmarket and Vintage Market have extended weekday hours. The Truman Brewery is centrally located on Brick Lane, easily reachable via Shoreditch High Street or Aldgate East stations. Amenities such as restrooms, food and drink options, and seating areas are available on-site to enhance visitor comfort. The location supports a strong mobile signal and caters to a diverse audience including families, solo travelers, and fashion aficionados.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The Truman Brewery Markets

Popular Hotels near The Truman Brewery Markets

Select Currency