The New Smithfield Sunday Market and Car Boot in Manchester (Openshaw) operates with card or contactless payment only for parking and generally for trader spaces. However, the historic London Smithfield Market (meat market) is primarily a cash-based environment for buying produce, though some modern traders might accept cards.
Cost – prices are not normally displayed in a wholesale market, so always ask: Smithfield is a 'proper' market so shop around for the best price of the day. Payment – all the stalls take cash, some take credit cards and regular trade customers can ask about credit accounts.
Yes, absolutely! Anyone can shop at London's historic Smithfield Market (and Manchester's New Smithfield Market), not just trade buyers like restaurants and butchers, but the general public can buy meat, poultry, fish, and produce, often at better prices, though you'll usually need to buy in bulk and be prepared for an early start.
Fascinating experience but not for the faint hearted. Definitely worth seeing at 3-4am at its busiest. Go with a clear idea of what you want to buy as the choice & quantities are overwhelming. Vendors can be abrupt- avoid no.
Get there early. The market is open from 2am-7am, however the best stock gets snapped up fast! Peak time to visit is around 4am. Parking is available at the Rotunda car park and market customers get a special rate.
What Drew Crowds to London’s Smithfield Market for Cut-Price Christmas Meat
Why is the Smithfield Market closing down?
In a surprising turn of events, the world-famous meat and fish markets might not actually be closing down for good. Phew. The City of London Corporation voted to withdraw its support for the 850-year-old markets in November 2024, meaning they would have to shut forever by 2028.
Bring Cash: While many vendors do accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to have cash on hand, as some vendors may only accept cash. Sample the Street Food: Camden Market is known for its incredible street food, so be sure to sample some of the local specialties while you're there.
Parking fees around Smithfield Market can vary depending on the location and time. On-street parking is typically controlled by parking meters, with fees averaging £3-£5 per hour. Nearby parking garages such as Hatton Garden Car Park offer more secure options, often charging between £10-£25 for daily rates.
Smithfield is London's historic meat market – and an area that's witnessed both public executions and the excitement of Bartholomew Fair. Now it's home to London Museum. Smithfield livestock market in 1811, 50 years before it became a wholesale meat market.
Smithfield Market is located in the City of London and is close to landmarks such as the Barbican, St Paul's Cathedral and St Bartholomew's Hospital. The nearest tube stations are Farringdon and Barbican - the market is only a few minutes walk from each.
Asda often comes out on top for the absolute cheapest prices, particularly for staples like whole chicken and pork shoulder. Tesco is very competitive, especially on items like lamb shanks and mince.
Kobe Beef is a specific variety of Wagyu from the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan, considered one of the most expensive and luxurious cuts available. Kobe beef, in particular, has a reputation for being one of the most exclusive and expensive steaks in the world, sometimes costing hundreds of dollars per pound.
The City Guides run walking tours of Smithfield for members of the public on a monthly basis. Hear how Smithfield meat market has changed throughout its 800 year history and experience its working life first-hand on this special tour.
Running daily from 11 am to 9 pm, this enchanting Christmas market promises something for everyone — from traditional wooden chalets serving festive favourites and artisan gifts to twinkling lights, live entertainment, and that unmistakable holiday atmosphere.
While many are concerned for traders and the loss of the market's unique sights, sounds and smells, the corporation's decision – blamed on rising costs – is just the latest step in the decades' long transformation of the wider Smithfield area.
Lock & Co. The oldest hat shop in the world (and reputedly the oldest shop in London), Lock & Co. is still run by the family who founded the company way back in 1676.
Payment can only be made using the machines within the car park when ready to leave the car park. There are 8 Blue Badge Bays within this car park. The standard tariffs do apply when parking within this car park.
The data shows more than three-quarters of people (76%) believe it is important to have the option to pay with cash and 82% think all shops should accept it. Key Findings: Contactless via card remains the most preferred payment method for consumers with 40% choosing this option.
Is it legal to refuse cash? In the UK it is not illegal for businesses to refuse cash as payment and, in the same breath, it's not illegal for them to refuse card payments, either. The only situation where this isn't the case is when a business is accepting payment for a debt.
As well as its history and infectious energy, Camden Market is great for bagging a bargain – making it favourable over Borough Market for many. You could spend a few hours to an entire day haggling prices and exploring what's on offer.
