Everyone enjoys going to a local flea market to discover exciting trinkets and rarities you won’t find anywhere else. From vintage clothes to fresh produce, fine foods and drinks, and fascinating secondhand items – there’s all manner of things that you can unearth in your backyard flea market. Here’s a rundown of the best flea markets in London for you to shop ’til you drop at:
1. Camden Market
There’s no question that for the ultimate flea market in London experience, a trip to Camden Market – one of the world’s most famous markets – is a must. You’ll find over 1,000 unique shops, stalls, bars and cafes here – and that’s just the beginning. With the recent addition of Babylon Park – a family-style theme park that has its own rollercoaster – Camden is a destination for the whole family.
There are also plenty of exciting events at nearby Hawley Wharf, with canal-side performers and regular live music every weekend. The market is a great spot to shop for exclusive homeware selected from Camden Market’s artisans and unique retailers, and there’s also a plethora of street food here too.
📍You’ll find Camden Market at Camden Lock Place, Camden Town, London, NW1 8AF.
🚇 Nearest station is Camden Town.
2. Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair
For any fashionistas on the hunt for the very best flea markets in London when it comes to clothing, then look no further than the Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair. Born in May 2009 in response to the recession, this flea market strives to launch a series of quality vintage fashion, accessories and textile events to suit any taste. Having attracted the attention of famous designers, stylists, fashion editors, celebrities and models alike, this is one of the top spots in the world to find fine vintage finds.
Not to mention, here you can even receive one of the most personalised shopping experiences anywhere, with perks including on-the-spot alterations, personal shoppers and vintage style experts, and live music to ensure you’re always browsing in comfort. Located at the Freemasons’ Hall on Great Queen Street, showings usually occur with each fashion season, with an occasional weekend special giving you an extra chance to find that special piece.
📍You’ll find Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair at Freemasons’ Hall, 60 Great Queen Street, London, WC2B 5AZ.
🚇 Nearest station is Holborn.
3. Petticoat Lane Market
A quaint flea market in London with a bit of a racy backstory, Petticoat Lane Market on Liverpool Street is for anyone looking for a down-to-earth place to shop for local products. Though still called the ‘Petticoat Lane Market’, the name of the street itself was changed by the Victorians to Middlesex Street due to the reference to a lady’s garments being considered scandalous. Although, the only ‘racy’ thing nowadays may just be the scandalously good deals you can find!
The specialities here range from clothing, fabrics, accessories and homewares, with plenty of delicious and freshly-made food to be tried while you browse. Do take note, though, that Sundays are the very best day to go, with the most sellers present – all ready to present you with their finest wares.
📍You’ll find Petticoat Lane Market at Middlesex Street, London, E1 7HT.
🚇 Nearest station is Liverpool Street.
4. Flea at Vinegar Yard
For a well-rounded experience rivalling the aforementioned Camden Market, a visit to Flea at Flat Iron Square is one you’ll definitely want to take. Available from 11am to 6pm on Saturdays and 10am to 5pm on Sundays, the deals here are a bit more fleeting – but all the more worth it for those willing to make the trip. Found just a stone’s throw from London Bridge station at the lively Vinegar Yard, you’ll be able to enjoy a significant food trader lineup, a taproom, a brewery and fresh garden space to unwind and relax too.
The flea Market itself specialises in used and vintage clothing, furniture, ceramics, spectacles, books, magazines and vinyl records too. Set against the background of this fantastic dining and drinking destination, any weekend spent here is a pretty great idea.
📍You’ll find the Flea at Vinegar Yard, St Thomas Street, London, SE1 3QU.
🚇 Nearest station is London Bridge.
5. Borough Market
One of the best Flea Markets in London for foodies and all lovers of food-related facts and history, Borough Market is a historic culinary destination. Established all the way back in 1756, grabbing a bite to eat here or picking up some fresh produce is a bucket-list London experience. The delicious food found here comes from not only all over Britain, but the world – and the traders are always hungry to share their stories with you. A fascinating fact is that though the market’s current location was founded relatively recently, their initial market beneath London Bridge took shape well over a thousand years ago!
📍You’ll find Borough Market at 8 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TL.
🚇 Nearest station is London Bridge.
6. Covent Garden
If you’re seeking a flea market in London that offers a full day’s worth of fun to be had, then Covent Garden is the place for you. From bars to markets and boutiques, you’ll find it very difficult to get bored here. Often called one of the prettiest parts of town, Covent Garden is a great spot to peruse the outdoor stalls for bits and bobs and also people watch too. There are also a whole host of restaurants here, and regular flea markets and pop-up stalls too.
📍You’ll find Covent Garden at Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD.
🚇 Nearest station is Covent Garden.
7. Portobello Road Market
Perhaps the world’s best-known street market, we’ve saved the best for last. Portobello Road Market is found on its namesake Portobello Road, stretching over a mile down the street and into Golborne Road. Dating back to the 19th Century and home to one of the UK’s most diverse communities, Portobello is always well worth a visit.
Not to mention with the colourful historic architecture as a sunny background no matter the weather, it’s a perfectly picturesque spot for some photos alone or with friends anytime. Portobello is located in Ladbroke Grove, with the market open for business from Monday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm.
📍You’ll find Portobello Road Market at Portobello and Golborne Road, Ladbroke Grove, London, W11 1LU.
🚇 Nearest station is Ladbroke Grove.
So there you have it – no matter what kind of unique shopping experience you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find it at a flea market in London. Whether solo or with friends, get out there and find yourself some bargains!