Old Spitalfields Market, London

Initially established in the 17th century, Spitalfields Market was situated in the open countryside to the east of the City. It once held the esteemed position of being the capital's primary marketplace for fruits and vegetables; however, with the relocation of the wholesale market to Stratford in 1991, it has undergone a transformation.

Within the Victorian-era red-brick building, adorned with green gables, a daily market thrives, featuring stalls offering a diverse array of crafts, clothing, food, and gifts. Periodically, dedicated markets catering to antiques, vinyl records, or independent fashion designers take center stage. Nevertheless, it is on Sundays that Spitalfields truly comes to life, attracting crowds in search of distinctive clothing and unique items sheltered beneath the protective canopy of Spitalfields Traders Market in the adjacent Crispin Place. Dating back to the 1920s, this western half of the market has been replaced by a modern glass-box structure housing a blend of offices and shops, but a portion of the original facade remains intact on the north side of Brushfield Street. On the south side, the former fruiterers' shops now house stylishly retro businesses.

In recent times, the market attracts as many food enthusiasts as shoppers, offering a wide array of delectable options, including Pacific pokè, Chinese 'shengjianbiao' (soup dumplings), hearty vegan Ethiopian stews, and top-quality Neapolitan pizza. The market has become a hub for "street food" vans and a burgeoning selection of small, independent restaurants, including the renowned Galvin Bistrot & Bar run by Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin.

While corporate and chain establishments have made their presence felt, the traditional London ambiance still lingers. Moreover, the market's utility has expanded to host a variety of events, so it's advisable to check the two websites for updates on the latest happenings.