Spitalfields Market
Shopping Center | London | England | United Kingdom
Historic market in London
Spitalfields Market in London, England, is one of the oldest and most well-known markets in the city and a central part of the vibrant East End. It is a covered market with a history that dates back to 1638 when King Charles I granted a license to sell meat, poultry, and roots in the then rural area of "Spittle Fields." In 1682, the market was officially re-established by King Charles II to serve the growing population of London's developing suburbs. Today, Spitalfields Market, often referred to as "Old Spitalfields Market," is a modern shopping and leisure destination that combines tradition and contemporary flair. It is located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, right on the edge of the City of London, attracting around 25,000 visitors each week.
Shopping destination in East End
The current shopping center consists of two main areas: the historic Old Spitalfields Market and the adjacent Traders' Market. The Old Spitalfields Market is known for its Victorian architecture, built between 1885 and 1893 by architect George Campbell Sherrin for Robert Horner, the last private owner of the market. These buildings, known as the Horner Buildings, were later taken over by the City of London Corporation in 1920 and expanded in 1926. After the wholesale market for fruits and vegetables moved to Leyton in 1991, the site underwent extensive renovations starting in 2005. This regeneration resulted in the creation of new public spaces such as Bishops Square and Crispin Place, complementing the modern Spitalfields Market. Today, the center is characterized by a mix of market stalls, independent shops, restaurants, and offices.
Spitalfields Market culinary diversity
The offerings at Spitalfields Market are diverse and cater to different target groups. Over 100 market stalls operated by independent vendors are active daily. They offer a wide range of products, including handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, artwork, antiques, and unique gifts. The market is particularly known for its special themed days: on Thursdays, a vintage market takes place; on Fridays, there is occasionally a vinyl market; and on weekends, the focus is on arts and crafts and fashion. In addition to the stalls, there are permanent retail shops featuring contemporary brands and boutiques that enhance the shopping experience.
Victorian architecture Spitalfields Market
Another emphasis of Spitalfields Market is gastronomy. At the center of the market are "The Kitchens," an area with ten fully equipped kitchens offering a selection of street food from around the world, ranging from Asian specialties to classic British dishes like fish and chips. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants and cafés around the market, including well-known names like Leon and Galvin La Chapelle, which serve fine dining in a historic setting. Food trucks also contribute to the vibrant atmosphere. This culinary diversity makes the market not only a shopping destination but also a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.
Street food at Spitalfields Market
The architecture of Spitalfields Market combines historical elements with modern additions. The preserved Victorian market buildings, with their characteristic roof and brick facades, stand in contrast to the contemporary expansions added during the regeneration. This modernization was supported by renowned architects such as Foster and Partners, who also redesigned the market stalls in 2017. The blend of old and new reflects the transformation of the entire East End, which has evolved from an industrial and immigrant-influenced area to a trendy and culturally diverse neighborhood.
Spitalfields Market is well-connected to public transport, with nearby stations such as Liverpool Street making it easily accessible. This location has contributed to the market becoming a draw for visitors from all over London and beyond. In addition to shopping and dining, the center also offers a program of events, including art exhibitions, music performances, and seasonal markets that enhance the experience. Historically, the area has been a refuge for immigrants, such as the Huguenots in the 17th century and later Bangladeshi communities, which is reflected in the cultural diversity of the market.
