By Ali Capron
Every year more than 30 million international visitors flock to London in search of adventure. With its rich history and colorful cultures, the city is without a doubt one of the most popular destinations in the whole world. Unfortunately, London can also be ridiculously expensive according to a feature published in The Guardian. One sure-fire way to ensure that you stick to a budget while in London, is to give Bond Street and Harrods a miss and head to one of the many markets across the city where you can pick up anything from designer clothes and artwork to artisan foods and fresh produce. There are a number of stunning markets, including the following, where you will be sure to come across a variety of exciting bargains.
Camden Market
The Camden Market, which has been open since 1974, is home to more than 1,000 stores and stalls where you can eat, drink, and shop to your heart’s content. The market, which is divided into 4 main markets, is located in the historical former Pickfords stables in Camden Town, London. Most shops are open every day, including bank holidays, from 10 am till late and offer bargain hunters ample opportunity to find valuable treasures such as designer jeans, vintage jewelry, and rare vinyl records at an absolute steal. Everything 5 Pounds sells clothing, shoes, and accessories all for £5 while The Hammer Silver stocks affordable handmade jewelry and also does repairs and stone setting. When you do visit the market, come hungry as you will be blown away by the huge range of scrumptious yet inexpensive food offerings such as pizzas, burgers, doughnuts, flatbreads, hotdogs, and curries.
Borough Market
There is no reason you can’t feast like a king (or queen) while in London without breaking the bank. If you are looking for the best fresh produce, craft cheeses, wine, bread, and even chocolates in the city while still sticking to your budget, head on over to the Borough Market on London’s South Bank. The market, which dates back many centuries, is the oldest food-orientated market in all of London and home to more than 100 stalls. Apart from numerous fruit & vegetable stalls that typically offer superb bargains, visitors to the market can also pick up a range of pickles and preserves at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the Harrods Food Hall and other upmarket delicatessens. Among the many astounding stalls at the market, Alpine Deli, Borough Cheese Company, and Cartwright Brothers Vintners Ltd are definitely must-visits for any foodie bargain hunter.
Old Spitalfields Market
The Old Spitalfields Market dates back to 1638 and is a great spot to pick up a bargain or two. Situated in Commercial Street, a mere 5-minute walk from the Liverpool Street Station, the market is home to more than 100 food, clothing, accessories, and craft stalls that are known for their great bargains. Head on over to Walconcept where you can find good-quality vintage apparel at great prices or browse through the immense collection of watches at Cybele London where prices start from as little as £10. If you are looking to grab something to eat, try a burger from Bleecker Burger or indulge in the best Reuben sandwich in the city courtesy of Monty’s Deli that prides itself on delicious, nutritious, and affordable street food offerings.
Spending time browsing the various markets across London can be a very fulfilling pastime. Not only are you bound to save a lot of money, but you will also be transported to a beautiful place reminiscent of the trade markets of yesteryear.
