Take a trip by yourself or make it a fun day out by organising a group of friends to visit one of these exciting places. However you choose to go, have a wonderful time soaking up some of the colour and buzz of this great trading city, capturing the spirit of the many different cultures which have helped to create modern London.
And note that all of these markets are free to enter and walk around, except where indicated for the Winter Wonderland.
Make sure you tell us all about your trip. Don’t forget to take a selfie at the markets you visit, and tag us in to share the experience, on Instagram @roe_southlands using the hashtag #RoeLondonLife
London Markets
South Bank Market
Just a single train ride away from Barnes Station, Roehampton students will find it easy in every way to enjoy this riverside market, just along from the London Eye near Waterloo station.
Street food vendors, along with gift and goodie stalls, make this a perfect all-round destination, with a special Christmas market adding a touch of sparkle to the banks of the Thames river. And one very extra special reason for Roehampton students to visit: the market is right next to Festival Hall, where your graduation ceremony will take place!
South Bank Market, South Bank Centre, London SE1 8UD
Winter Wonderland
The UK’s largest ice rink, a ski-resort style ‘village’, festive food stalls and even karaoke pods… if this doesn’t get you into the Christmas spirit nothing will. Open daily in Hyde Park during the Christmas season, prebooking is essential but it’s free at off-peak times.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH
https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
Camden Market
Coolest of all London’s markets for many decades, Camden has seen much change in recent years but still retains enough of its alternative vibe to merit an afternoon of browsing, shopping and taking in the food. Also one of the biggest markets, it’s well-visited by tourists and locals alike, with plenty to see and do.
Camden Market, 54-56 Camden Lock Place, London NW1 8AF
Kingston Market
You might not believe it, but Kingston’s market has been operating in the same location since 1242! Nearly 800 years later this much-loved market is as busy as ever, and it’s just a bus ride away from Roehampton University. Modern wooden cabins have updated the look in recent years, and a fabulous Christmas theme makes it an extra special destination in December. Open every day.
Kingston Market, Market Place, Kingston, London KT1 1JH
kingstonuponthames.info/discover/kingston-market
Borough Market
A treat at any time of the year, Borough market is an ancient site of street trading, and is considered by many to be the number one destination for food and culture lovers in the city. Sparkling with festive lights and decorations, it is particularly busy in December, and a great location for a day out with friends.
Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Leicester Square Christmas Market
Beautiful food and gift stalls abound in a location liberally sprinkled with its own form of stardust: it’s located in the heart of London’s vibrant theatre and cinema district. Entrance to the main market area is free, with tickets for sideshow attractions.
Leicester Square Christmas Market, Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LU
Covent Garden
A former market site for central London, Covent Garden has long since been taken over as a great venue for shopping, entertainments, street performers, and eating out. Open daily all year, a seasonal theme is added in December with a huge Christmas tree, pop-up street food stalls and gift shops galore.
Covent Garden, The Apple Market, Covent Garden. London WC2E 8RF
Brixton Village market
Based around this trendy London suburb’s railway arches, the market in Brixton is as international as you can hope to find, and is known as ‘Brixton Village’. An exciting mix of bars and street food, clothing, books, records and crafts, plus the outdoor eating opportunities of nearby Electric Avenue make Brixton a top choice for a weekend’s exploration.
Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London SW9 8PS
Brick Lane market
Sunday on Brick Lane sees the street come alive with a huge choice of market stalls selling every kind of bric-a-brac, usually at bargain prices. For a slightly more upmarket experience, head along to the stalls in The Old Truman’s Brewery building, with a range of themed markets including vintage items. Busiest at weekends, but some market areas are active throughout the week.
Brick Lane market, Brick Lane, London E1 5HA
Tooting Market and Broadway Market
Maybe not the most glamorous or famous, but even so a real piece of south London street culture can be found in Tooting, just a few steps up from Tooting Broadway tube station. Food from around the world and a range of second-hand shops are well-used by locals, adding to the bustling community vibe. These are actually two separate markets, their entrances just a few steps apart on Tooting Broadway, open daily.
Tooting Market, 21-23 Tooting High St, London SW17 0SN
Broadway Market, 29 Tooting High St, London SW17 0SP