BROADWAY MARKET
It’s no secret I love open air markets. Whether I’m home or exploring a new place, visiting the local market is one of the things I never miss and really enjoy. Over the years I’ve shared a few of my favourites here on the blog: the Marché des Enfants Rouges in Paris, the Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid and last but not least, the markets in Place du Jeu de Balle and Place du Châtelain in Brussels. This time I wanted to show you a little gem of a market in London, Broadway Market.
London is blessed with a lot of fantastic markets. You’ve probably heard or been to Borough Market, Columbia Flower Market or the one in Portobello Road but this one has remained somewhat off the bitten path. Broadway Market combines a few of the things I really fancy: it’s not huge, has a great variety of food stalls for street food and fresh produce, and is a mishmash of cultures, colours, smells and sounds. The shops and restaurants of Broadway Market are open daily but if you really want to experience this little part of East London, make sure to visit on a Saturday between 9am and 5pm when the Street and Schoolyard markets are open. Early birds get to enjoy the market at its best when it’s not too crowded and all the stalls are still there.
Like much of London, the origins of Broadway Market date way back. In fact, it’s one of the oldest chartered markets in the city operating from the 1890s until it eventually stopped in the early ’00s. In 2004 the market was revived thanks to the local community and has grown to one of the best places to spend a Saturday in London. There’s a little bit for everyone from vintage clothes and old vinyl records to flowers, yummy treats and street performers. You’ll need some time to take it all in leisurely: walk down the market, browse through the stalls, tap your feet to musicians playing live, indulge in some great food and if you need a break, head to London Fields and stretch your feet on the grass. Doesn’t get better than this!
Having visited the market a few times already, I have my favourite spots. I always start with a cup of coffee at Climpson & Sons unless I feel like having a cuppa, in which case I head to Tiosk. Being the crazy plant lady that I am, Twigs is a mandatory stop for me – plants and macaron ice cream are a match made in heaven in my books! I also never leave without stocking up on some cinnamon buns at Pavilion Bakery (you know by now I have a weak spot for those!) and cupcakes from Violet’s stall. If you don’t mind a short walk, Martello Hall is also a good idea. For a spot of shopping, stop by Kana London for beautiful handmade ceramics and The Broadway Bookshop for guides and fiction.
If you find yourselves in East London on a weekend and are keen to explore something different and delicious, head over to Broadway Market – I promise it won’t disappoint you!
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| Address: London Fields, London E8, UK |
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