What did Spitalfields Market originally sell?

Spitalfields Market, originally licensed in 1638 by King Charles I, was established to sell "flesh, fowl, and roots" (meat, poultry, and root vegetables) to London’s growing population. It functioned for centuries as a vital, sprawling wholesale market for fresh produce and meat, formally becoming a major hub for fruit and vegetables.

What did Spitalfields Market used to be?

Spitalfields Market in Tower Hamlets was a rural trading site in open fields in the 1600s. It was named after the medieval hospital of St Mary Spital, historically referred to as Spittel or Spitel. Archaeological excavations on the site between 1991 and 2007 revealed cemeteries stretching back to Roman times.

What does the Old Spitalfields Market sell?

London's oldest market

Spitalfields Market is your seven-day-a-week destination. With original designers and surprising finds, our stalls range from contemporary and vintage fashion, music, jewellery and accessories to home interiors.

What is the difference between Spitalfields Market and Old Spitalfields Market?

Spitalfields Market and Old Spitalfields Market are essentially the same vibrant destination in London's East End, though sometimes considered slightly different sections – Old Spitalfields Market refers to the historic Victorian covered market hall (focusing on antiques, vintage, crafts on certain days), while "Spitalfields Market" often encompasses the broader area including modern shops, food stalls, and pop-ups around the original structure, with both offering diverse shopping, dining, and events, especially busy on weekends. 

What is the history of the Smithfield Market in London?

Smithfield became London's livestock market in the medieval period. Animals reared as far away as the Midlands were brought here for sale. In 1174, William Fitzstephen described it as “A smooth field where every Friday there is a celebrated rendezvous of fine horses to be sold…

Does Spitalfields Market Sell Vintage Items? - United Kingdom Explorers

What are some interesting facts about the Smithfield Market?

A grim history of execution and revolution

It was also the site of martyrdom during the Reformation; people were tortured and killed here on many occasions. Most of those executed at Smithfield were religious dissenters, particularly during the peak of the Reformation and Counter Reformation in the 16th century.

Who owns Spitalfields Market?

New Spitalfields Market is a fruit and vegetable market on a 31-acre (13 ha) site in Leyton, London Borough of Waltham Forest. Located in East London, the market is owned and administered by the City of London Corporation.

Can you haggle at Spitalfields Market?

One of the largest indoor markets in the city, it is spread across an expansive square marketplace and has sections for fashion, arts and crafts and food. Haggle with stall owners for well-priced clothes, souvenirs and culinary treats.

What is the history of the gun in Spitalfields?

The Gun began life in the 16th Century as a tavern serving the soldiers of the Artillery Barracks near Artillery Lane. It moved on a number of occasions, finally finding a permanent home in Brushfield Street 1929. It was for a long time a welcome feature of Spitalfields for thirsty traders at the nearby market.

Why are there elephants at Spitalfields Market?

A powerful public art installation in London's Spitalfields celebrating elephants and coexistence, the Herd of Hope is a moving tribute to Africa's elephants and the urgent conservation work needed to secure their future.

Which is the oldest store in London?

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.

What celebrities live in Spitalfields?

Amongst the many well known artists living in Spitalfields are Gilbert and George, Tracey Emin and Stuart Brisley.

Who is the richest landowner in London?

We have compiled a brief rundown of the top estates and property portfolios.

• The Grosvenor Estate. Gerald Cavendish Grosvenor, the 6th Duke of Westminster, controls the £10 billion Grosvenor Estate, making him London's wealthiest landlord. ...
• Howard De Walden Estate. ...
• Wellcome Trust. ...
• Cadogan Estate. ...
• Crown Estate. ...
• Portman Estate.

What is special about Spitalfields?

Evidence of the people and communities that have given the area it's unique character can still be seen – a Huguenot church, a Methodist chapel, a Jewish synagogue, and Muslim mosque stand among traditional and new shops, restaurants, markets and homes.

What is the famous shopping village in London?

There are a great variety of shops in Bicester Village. Shop for fragrances by Molton Brown, and discover luxury fashion brands, such as Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney.

Where do the rich and famous shop in London?

Bond Street

This famous London shopping street is home to some of the world's most prestigious retailers, including Burberry, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. It also boasts an impressive number of Royal Warrant holders.

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.

What is the oldest market in London?

Borough Market has a history spanning over a millenium and is widely considered London's oldest retail and wholesale food market. It's been operating at its current site since 1756. With over 100 stalls covering about 4.5 acres, Borough Market is also one of the largest food markets in the capital.