Â鶹APP

Best Way To Visit London’s Borough Market

For a unique shopping experience with great prices, you can’t beat a market. From the charming stalls staffed by friendly craftspeople, each one eager to introduce you to their product, markets are the perfect way to find fresh local produce, one of a kind gifts and unique international imports in a fun and bustling environment. London’s famous Borough Market is a great example of this. It is known all over the world for the wares it has been touting in its Southwark location, which is said to have been in existence from as far back as 1276 or earlier.

As a visitor in 2020 the sprawling market can be confusing, read on for a list of ways to get the most from your visit, whether you’re a market veteran or a first time shopper.

1. Where to get info

Wikimedia Commons

If you’re shopping there for the first time, it might be a good idea to brush up on your Borough Market ahead of time in advance of your visit. The best way to do that is to visit the market’s own , This contains not just a comprehensive list of all the stalls which are available at the current time, but also has a helpful round up of the various opening and closing times of the market, which many people find confusing on occasion.

If you’re looking for something special or new, the website is always updated with articles and features on the latest products and stalls. Once you’re done shopping, make sure to check the website for any special events or pop ups which might be going on during your visit. You never know what cool activities you might get to try, or what freebies are up for grabs!

2. Best day of week to visit

The best day of the week to visit Borough Market is often disagreed upon by Londoners and those who visit the market often. Some shoppers prefer Friday and it’s later opening hours, while others prefer the early start and broader offerings which come about on a Saturday. On the website, you can check the trading days of any specific stalls that you really want to visit, to make sure that they are open on the day that you choose.

Monday and Tuesday, as with many shopping destinations, and generally the quietest, although you may find that there are fewer stalls and shops open on these days due to the lower footfall. The market calls these their ‘limited produce’ days, when many stall owners take a much needed break after their busy weekends. However, many shops and stalls will still be trading, so if you prefer a quieter shopping experience without the weekend crowds, consider visiting on these days.

Overall, the extent of Borough Market means there’s always something new to check out, whichever day you decide to visit. As long as you remember that the market is closed on a Sunday, apart from extended Christmas hours in December, you’ll be fine.

3. Best time of day to visit

Wikimedia Commons

It goes without saying that during working hours on weekdays, especially earlier on in the week, will generally be the quietest, as most people are at work.

If you must visit on a Saturday, typically the busiest day of the week for the market, try getting there first thing just as it opens, as crowd levels should be lower in the hours before lunchtime.

A good trick that locals use is to visit the market at around 4pm. Most of the shoppers will have headed home by then, and, although some stall owners may be packing up for the day, they will likely be looking to give away their leftover fresh produce at a heavily discounted rate, or if you’re lucky or at least very nice, maybe even for free.

Which ever time you visit, you’ll have more than enough stalls to look at. Even at peak times, some people enjoy the market at its most bustling, as it has a great and friendly atmosphere at all times.

4. How to get there

Most people choose to get the underground to Borough Market if they are travelling from elsewhere in the city. It’s quick, convenient and reliable. The closest underground station is London Bridge, which is served by both the Northern and Jubilee lines. Once you exit the station, the way to the market is well signposted above ground. If you’re getting a long distance mainline train into the city, London Bridge Station also has many regular departures.

If a bus is more your style, the nearby Borough High Street has stops from routes 43, 141, 149, 521, providing connections to most parts of the inner and outer city.

If you’re thinking of driving, be advised that Borough Market has no dedicated public customer parking. However, there are several available car parks in the surrounding area, the closest of which are Union Car Parks and Snowsfields NCP. Both are within short walking distance of the market, though may be full up at peak times.

5. Getting your bearings

Wikimedia Commons

Once you’re finally at the market, the colours and smells can almost be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. At this time, it can be helpful to take a moment and get your bearings before plunging into the stalls.

The market itself is a real mix of spaces. Some are wide open with plenty to see, other parts are down narrow paths or winding passages. Take a note of where your route is taking you if you prefer to avoid cramped spaces, and don’t be afraid to turn back and find another route which suits you better.

It may be a good idea to download and print a map of the market in advance, especially if you’re pushed for time and want to get as much in as possible. If you’re not worried about efficiency, however, the best way to explore the market is simply by wandering wherever you please. Follow your nose, or any bright colours which catch your eye. You never know what you might find!

6. Best gift stalls

Borough Market is the perfect place to treat yourself or someone else to a gift like no other. At the market you’ll discover French Patisseries, handmade nut butters and jams and spreads in combinations you wouldn’t even have thought of. It’s a foodie’s paradise, and many of the market’s offerings are sealed and portable, perfect for bringing your spoils back home to your friends and family.

7. Best food stalls

Wikimedia Commons

The largest open area of Borough Market is the Three Crown Square. If you’ve seen any common photos of Borough Market before, they’re likely to be of this impressive and iconic space. The square is large for a reason: it contains the majority of the essential produce sold by the market. This includes fruit and vegetables, meat, fish and dairy. You won’t just find British staple here, however, as around the fringes of the square are the speciality food stalls, containing new and wonderful flavours from all corners of the world. This is the best place to start if food is on your mind at the market.

8. Where else to visit in the area

Once you’re tired of the market (although, who could really be tired of such a vibrant, diverse plane?) there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. Just on the river bank is the world famous London Bridge, not to be confused with Tower Bridge of course. Also nearby is the famous warship HMS Belfast, a unique attraction which is well worth a visit.

Also within a stone’s throw if the market is The Shard, London’s tallest building. Don’t miss the opportunity to travel up this glittering, iconic skyscraper, and take in the breathtaking aerial views of London.

9. Safety tips

Wikimedia Commons

Borough Market, like any busy popular London location, can be a target for criminals, especially pickpockets. Make sure to use a secure bag which you can keep in view at all times, and keep an eye on your phone and wallet or purse.

Borough Market is busy but friendly, and people will always be happy to help if you get into any difficulty. Overall, there’s no need to worry or reconsider your visit. Take the normal precautions that you would take in any major city, and just relax and enjoy your visit.

10. Toilets and accessibility

Free public toilets are located in Three Crown Square and the Market Hall, and are clean and well maintained. These also include accessible disabled facilities with emergency cords.

The market proper is all on one level, with no steps or platforms. However, some passages are narrow or have a cobbled surface, so extra care may be required by wheelchair users. Otherwise, you shouldn’t have much difficulty navigating the market.

Unfortunately Borough Market is fairly light on seating, especially at busier times. Make sure to take regular breaks outside if you need it, or bring a portable stool.