Take a tour through Spitalfields Market with our handy mini guide. From its Great Fire of London origins to its millennium rebirth, this historic London market is an East London institution and one of the city’s best every-day-of-the-week market destinations. 

History of Spitalfields Market

Step back into the 1600’s and the market was known as the place to go for fruit and veg in London. In time the stallholders branched out, and weavers from France and Ireland added to the market’s offerings. By the mid 1800s however the market was past its glory days, and the area was better known for its cheap housing than its craftsmen and produce. Fast forward to the 1870’s and Robert Horner, who’d worked in the market as a young man, stepped in to save it. The buildings that still bear his name opened in 1893 and reinvigorated the proud Spitalfields Market district. 

The story of Spitalfields though doesn’t end there. By the 1990’s it had outgrown its home and so it moved 5 miles North East, where New Spitalfields market is still one of Europe’s busiest wholesale produce markets. What happened to Robert Horner’s grand Victorian buildings? A regeneration project in the mid 2000’s saw the buildings and surrounding history-rich area once again living up to its potential as both a meeting point and marketplace. Old Spitalfields Market and the adjoining Spitalfields Market are now one of London’s most visited markets and a much-loved attraction.   

When To Visit Spitalfields Market

Daily Market – We know the disappointment of missing out on that once-a-week market day, but don’t worry if your London staycation doesn’t overlap with a weekend, Spitalfields Market is open every day and the Daily Market has a great selection of regular stallholders with a mix of fashion, vintage, art, and one-of-a-kind ephemera.

Thursday – This is the one for vintage lovers. Spitalfields’ Antique & Vintage Market fills the space every Thursday with some of the rarest books, most treasured pre-loved clothing, dreamy décor, and stunning antique accessories. 

Saturday – With more than 80 independent designers showing off their creations, the Spitalfields Style Market every Saturday is the perfect excuse to add a little something special to your wardrobe while supporting a small local business. 

Vinyl Market – Every first and second Friday of the month the market comes to life with vinyl hunters searching for that elusive 7” to finish their collection. 

The changing markets and hundred plus vendors inside the market itself aren’t the only draw for shoppers looking for a unique slice of London shopping. Whatever day you visit, the permanent and pop-up stores surrounding the market fill the beautiful Victorian Horner buildings with everything from homeware to streetwear. 

Eating At Spitalfields Market

Spitalfields is as much a destination for filling your bags as it is your belly, with London’s best food trucks and food stalls at the heart of the market experience. Eat your way around the globe and then back again in the Kitchens, where fresh and authentic Bangkok noodles fight against New York style deli favourites, Jamaican jerk, Venezuelan arepas, and fresh-from the oven Neapolitan pizza for your tastebuds’ attention.

How To Get To Spitalfields Market

Walking from The Gate Hotel you can get there in 10 minutes by heading North on Commercial St.  Or skip out some of the walk by riding the 242 bus from the Aldgate East stop that’s just a few minutes from The Gate Hotel’s entrance. 

Depending on when you’re visiting it’s good to dress for the weather. Although the market is covered, the sides are open, so if you’re visiting on a chilly or wet day, it’s worth wrapping up with layers that you can easily add or remove.

Staying Near Spitalfields Market

Explore London’s longest running market from the luxury of The Gate. Combining the best of luxury hotel amenities with the convenience and comfort of a self-contained apartment, The Gate is the perfect destination for a London mini-break, a shopping staycation, or a no-excuse-needed holiday in the city.