Borough Market

Located on the bank of Thames in the borough of Southwark, Borough’s incredible food market has played a major part in elevating our city and nation’s status as a food destination. A morning or afternoon here – you’ll need it – will reassure even a cynic that we’ve come a long way and can now claim to produce some of the best seasonal produce and food anywhere in Europe.

The market is vast, with covered and uncovered sections, areas dedicated to cooked and preserved produce, areas dedicated to fresh produce, raw and cured meats, fish and game. There are sections selling vegetarian and vegan produce, one of the best beer stalls in Europe and breathtakingly good cheeses and dried goods from all over the world. To round it off, there are stalls all over the place selling everything from artisanal shish kebabs and chorizo wraps to Thai green curry and grilled fish (not to mention the numerous specialist shops, bars and restaurants in the area). Every time I’ve tried to find it elsewhere in London, I’ve always found it better here at Borough. The place is a bona fide foodie paradise, and I use the term “foodie” very loosely – if you like eating, you’ll love it here.

The premise is that anyone passionate or obsessive enough about their particular produce – be it cheese, bread, ham or ale – can operate a stall here on a rotating basis. Competition is fierce, and as a result the quality is very high – to even get a stall, it has to be. Produce can be more expensive than your local farmers market or Sainsbury’s, but truth be told, you do get what you pay for – back to that quality. A lot of people walk around and nibble the free samples given out everywhere, and though it’s perfectly feasibly to do this, your soul will hurt if you miss out on that amazing Gruyere/white asparagus/Serrano ham. This is a key London experience – do not miss out on it.

Opening Hours - The market is open Thursday - Friday at the following hours: Thursday 11:00 - 17:00, Friday 12:00 - 18:00, Saturday 08:00 to 17:00.

Nearest Tube - London Bridge. The walk from Borough station is an extra 5-10 minutes.