Is the Billingsgate fish market closing?

Yes, Billingsgate Fish Market is scheduled to close its current Poplar/Canary Wharf site permanently, likely by 2028. The City of London Corporation voted to halt the relocation plan to Dagenham due to rising costs, marking an end to its operations there, though traders are being supported in finding new locations.

Why is the Billingsgate Market shutting down?

Billingsgate Market (and Smithfield) is closing because its current site is outdated, inefficient, and causes congestion, with plans for relocation to the Royal Docks in East London scrapped due to soaring costs, leading the City of London Corporation to halt support and plan permanent closure, though a new site may yet emerge, with current operations continuing until at least 2028.
 

Does the Billingsgate fish market still exist?

Jason Holland. Billingsgate fish market – which is the oldest fish market in the U.K. capital of London and what was once the world's largest fish market – is set to close in 2028 after the City of London Corporation recently decided to withdraw its support.

Is the Billingsgate Market closing in 2028?

Most traders from both markets have agreed to move together to a new site, although the current markets will stay open until at least 2028, the City of London Corporation said. It added that it had signed an agreement with the Greater London Authority to work on the proposals.

What is the petition for Billingsgate Market closure?

The petition was created by former London resident Peter Acton to oppose plans to close Billingsgate and Smithfield markets by 2028 after relocation plans were rejected. He argued that these historic sites are vital to London's food supply and cultural heritage, and that relocating will not suffice.

Historic London Markets To Close: Smithfield & Billingsgate Could Shut After Centuries Of Trading

Where will the Billingsgate Market move to?

The proposal by the City of London Corporation – the governing body that runs both sites as well as the Square Mile financial district – would relocate the markets to Newham's Royal Docks.

Who owns the Billingsgate Market?

When the plan was made public, in April 2019, excitement was expressed about the City of London Corporation, owner of the Smithfield meat market in Farringdon, Billingsgate fish market in Poplar and the New Spitalfields horticultural produce hub in Leyton, consolidating all three in one place.

What famous London markets are closing?

London's historic Smithfield and Billingsgate markets are set to shut after the City of London Corporation voted to withdraw support for them, bringing down the curtain on two establishments that have been part of London life for the best part of a millennium.

Can the public buy from the Billingsgate Market?

Yes, anyone can shop at Billingsgate Market, as it's legally a "free and open" market for both wholesale (trade) and the general public to buy fresh fish, but you need to go very early (around 4-5 AM) for the best selection and be mindful of the busy, industrial environment, including wearing sturdy shoes and being aware of forklift traffic, with kids under 12 not permitted.

Is fish cheaper at Billingsgate?

Yes, fish is generally cheaper at London's Billingsgate Market, especially if you're buying in bulk (by the kilo or box) and are willing to get up early to shop, offering wholesale prices that beat many high street retailers, though some find prices similar to supermarkets for smaller quantities, with the main benefit being freshness and variety.

What is the best day to buy fish?

The best days to buy fish are generally Thursday through Sunday, as these are the busiest days, meaning more turnover and wider variety, especially for specific types like Mahi-Mahi or whole fish, though Monday/Tuesday might be best for certain staples if deliveries are consistent, but always check with your fishmonger for local freshness. While the old rule was to avoid Mondays due to weekend delivery gaps, modern supply chains often make fresh fish available daily, so asking your fishmonger when it arrived is the best advice, regardless of the day.
 

Where is the original site of Billingsgate Market?

The move to London docks

After 900 years at its original Thames Street location, Billingsgate relocated to West India Docks in Tower Hamlets in 1982.

Who bought the fish market?

Brigantine's private deal to acquire the Fish Market brand was announced late last year. The sale marked a new era for the nearly 50-year old Fish Market restaurants, a family-owned seafood business.

Is Smithfield and Billingsgate historic London markets to close after 800 years?

London's Smithfield meat market is set to close after more than 800 years, with trading expected to cease for good after 2028. The City of London Corporation, which runs the site, said on Tuesday its council voted to stop operating Smithfield and Billingsgate fish market.

What will replace the Billingsgate Market?

On December 3, 2025, Albert Island at the Royal Docks was announced as the new preferred site to co-locate Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets. These markets will become known as New Smithfield and New Billingsgate Markets.

What is the 3 5 7 rule in day trading?

At its core, the 3-5-7 rule sets three clear boundaries: 3%: The maximum amount of your trading capital you should risk on any single trade. 5%: The total amount of capital you should have exposed across all open trades at any given time. 7%: The minimum profit you should aim to make on your winning trades.

What happened to the Billingsgate fish market?

In November 2024, the council announced it did not intend to proceed with these plans as they were no longer economically viable; instead, Billingsgate Fish Market and Smithfield Market would close in or after 2028 with no replacements.

What is the most expensive fish to eat in the UK?

Last month we saw the first fully licenced bluefin tuna caught on a commercial vessel in Newlyn. The landed fish weighed in at 245 kg and made a sale price of over £14 per kilo a whopping total of over £3400!

How old is a 10lb bass in the UK?

Bass are extremely slow growing – a 10lb bass could be over 20 years old. in-shore Bass are vulnerable to overfishing and there is a bag limit of 2 bass per angler per day in force in the UK.

What is the oldest food market in London?

Borough Market is a wholesale and retail market hall in Southwark, London, England. It is one of the largest and oldest food markets in London, with a market on the site dating back to at least the 12th century.

Where do the fish from Billingsgate come from?

Billingsgate is served by almost every port in the United Kingdom. Most of the fish is transported by road directly from the coast and arrives at the market in the early hours of the morning.