When it comes to global culinary experiences, there’s arguably no better city to eat in than London. With a third of its population born outside of the UK, London proudly showcases its diverse food culture, offering everything from Lebanese wines to Asian street food, kebabs, and French pastries.
Eating in London is always a memorable experience, and one place that perfectly captures this diversity is Borough Market.
Located in Southwark, just a stone’s throw away from iconic landmarks like London Bridge and the Tower of London, Borough Market is London’s most famous and oldest food market. It has been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike since around 1014, making it a destination not only for food lovers but also for history buffs. In fact, many of the city’s most popular Food tour London include a stop at this lively market.
In recent years, many cities have transformed their traditional markets into culinary hotspots, and Borough Market is a shining example of this trend. What was once a simple marketplace has evolved into a foodie paradise where you can sample traditional English dishes and flavors from around the world.
Beyond its reputation for food, Borough Market also holds a special place in pop culture, particularly for fans of the Harry Potter series, as it made an appearance in the films.
This adds a touch of magic to the experience, especially for visitors who want to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
A Glimpse into the Market’s History
In the early days of Borough Market, London had only one bridge crossing the River Thames, the now-famous London Bridge. This area thrived as merchants set up shops, turning the market into a vibrant commercial hub in the 16th and 17th centuries. Along with the market stalls, pubs, theaters, and entertainment venues began to flourish, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.
However, the market hasn’t always had a smooth journey. During the 19th century, London’s population grew, and the introduction of railways further boosted the importance of Borough Market. In the 1860s, a railway viaduct was constructed, improving access to the market and enabling it to expand further.
Like many traditional markets around the world, Borough Market faced a challenge in the 1970s, as Londoners shifted towards the convenience of supermarkets. Yet, thanks to a resurgence in interest in fresh, local, and artisanal food, Borough Market has experienced a renaissance. Today, it’s a beacon of high-quality produce, fresh fish, and gourmet treats.
4 Must-Try Delicacies at Borough Market
Borough Market is packed with stalls offering an array of dishes and ingredients, making it easy to get lost in the sheer variety. Here are a few amazing options you won’t want to miss:
Furness Fish Markets – Fresh Seafood Galore
Among the many seafood stalls at Borough Market, Furness Fish Markets stands out for its incredibly fresh offerings.
Every morning, the freshest catch is brought straight from the British coastline to the market, where you’ll find everything from tuna and anchovies to sardines and herring, all displayed on beds of crushed ice. If you’re on a food tour of London, you will not miss their shrimp, which is served with plenty of butter and cumin and is a true crowd pleaser.
Turnips – Fresh Produce and Wild Mushrooms
Turnips is a vibrant stall offering an assortment of fresh vegetables, herbs, and gourds sourced from local farms around London.
However, the real highlight is their selection of wild mushrooms. One unique find is the Fistulina hepatica, a striking red mushroom native to the UK, which looks remarkably like a human liver.
For a taste of these mushrooms in action, grab a bowl of steaming risotto made with the freshest ingredients right in front of the stall.
Bread Ahead – Sweet Treats and More
Bread Ahead is a bakery that’s serious about its craft.
With large glass windows looking into the kitchen, you can watch the bakers at work, rolling dough and creating mouth-watering pastries from the early hours. Their ciabatta is a must-try, with a firm crust and just the right amount of sourdough tang, but the real star of the show is their selection of freshly made doughnuts.
These fluffy, sugar-coated delights are generously filled with various fillings, but my personal favorite? The dulce de leche doughnuts, a sweet nod to Argentinian flavors that will leave you craving more.
The Black Pig – Gourmet Sandwiches with a Twist
If you’re looking for a sandwich like no other, head to The Black Pig. This stall serves up mouthwatering creations, but their star offering is the slow-roasted pork sandwich.
Picture succulent, tender pork paired with a fresh salsa verde, crisp apple, fennel, and a dollop of aioli, all nestled between two slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s a sandwich experience you won’t forget.
As trends in food and health-conscious eating continue to evolve, Borough Market has embraced its role as a modern culinary destination while staying true to its roots.
So, the next time you find yourself in London, make sure to invest some time for Borough Market. It is not just a place to eat—it is a culinary journey through history and culture, where every stall has a story, and every bite is a testament to the city’s incredible food scene.