Borough Market in London is like a playground for those who love their food. Indeed, your average foodie is likely to get a bit misty-eyed when attempting to describe the market and all it entails to the uninitiated.

Borough Market has existed in one form or another for at least 1000 years, although in earlier times it was located at London Bridge. In the 13th century the market was relocated to what is now Borough High Street and the market has been in operation there ever since. It is the only fully independent market in London, and is owned and managed by the Borough Market (Southwark) Trust.

One of the nicest things about visiting Borough Market is the sheer volume and variety of goods for sale.

There are 13 places to buy cheese, and most of it is sold directly by the people who made it, so you really know exactly where your food is sourced. You can sample Dutch cheese at Boerenkaas, unsalted butter and crème fraiche at Real France, or gaze in awe at the diverse artisan cheeses from all over the UK at Neal's Yard Dairy.

The meat vendors are equally diverse, with a special emphasis on organic, local, and rare breeds. Whether it is Lincolnshire sausages, wild boar, or ostrich steaks that you desire, one of Borough Market's 14 meat and game vendors is sure to have what you need.

Foods from all over the world can be discovered at Borough Market. Portuguese preserves, Basque chorizo, and Lebanese meze rub elbows with Punjabi chutney and Argentinian empanadas here.

Prices vary, so expect to pay luxury prices for luxury goods. Bargain hunters might want to visit the market after 4:00 PM on Saturdays, as vendors often drop their prices or offer special deals on their wares as closing time draws near.

Borough Market in London is open Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Fridays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Visiting Borough Market

Southwark Street, Bankside, SE1 1TJ

Email info@boroughmarket.org.uk

Photo courtesy: tonylanciabeta

Return from Borough Market in London to London Street Markets

Return from Borough Market in London to Best London Attractions