What was unusual about the burials at the Spitalfields?

The pits associated with the 1258 eruption typically contain between 20 and 40 bodies. Two layers of bodies are visible in the pit below, showing how the dead were piled on top of each other before the burial was sealed. Excavating the pits revealed that they were not all dug at the same time.

What are the interesting facts about Spitalfields?

Spitalfields takes its name from the hospital and priory, St. Mary's Spittel which was founded in 1197. Lying in the heart of the East End, it is an area known for its spirit and a strong sense of community. It was in a field next to the priory where the now-famous market first started in the thirteenth century.

Is Spitalfields a nice part of London?

Spitalfields is a dynamic, trendy neighbourhood known for its mix of historic properties and modern developments. Due to its prime location and excellent amenities, the area attracts professionals, creatives, and young families.

Why is Spitalfields so called?

Its name derives from the Priory of St Mary Spital, which served as a hospital shortly after its foundation in 1197. At the time, the surrounding land was simply open fields – hence the name Spitalfields.

What's the most posh part of London?

West London is generally considered the most posh, encompassing prestigious areas like Chelsea, Kensington and Belgravia. These areas are known for their elegant architecture, high-end boutiques and serene garden squares, contributing to their reputation for affluence.

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Why is there a goat at Spitalfields?

The Goat is a symbol for the waves of immigrants who found sanctuary in Spitalfields. Spitalfields derived its name from the hospital and priory, St Mary's Spittel, founded in 1197. Explore this charming museum here.

What is the crime rate in Spitalfields London?

Annual total crime rate in Spitalfields & Banglatown (ward) is 287 per thousand resident population. This can be rated as 7 out of 10 or high crime level compared to other wards in England and Wales.

What does Spitalfields mean in English?

From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary EnglishSpit‧al‧fields /ˈspɪtlfiːldz/ a place in East London where there used to be a market selling fruit, vegetables, and flowers.

Why is Brick Lane called Brick Lane?

Brick Lane was in existence by the 1500s as a field path in open countryside outside the City of London, east of the boundary of the medieval Augustinian Priory of St Mary Spital, which gave Spitalfields its name. Originally the street took its name from the brick kilns first brought here by early Flemish settlers.

Who owns Spitalfields?

Who owns Spitalfields Market? It was acquired by the City of London in 1920. In 2005, a redevelopment programme split the market from Old Spitalfields market which is owned by Ashkenazy Acquisitions. Read more about our history on our history page, Wikipedia or British History Online.

What does buggers mean in London?

Bugger or buggar can at times be considered as a mild swear word. In the United Kingdom the term has been used commonly to imply dissatisfaction, refer to someone or something whose behaviour is in some way inconvenient or perhaps as an expression of surprise.

What is the safest district in London?

Which part of London is safest? Richmond upon Thames (including areas like Teddington) consistently ranks as the safest borough in London, thanks to its low crime rates (about 72 crimes per 1000 people as of 2024), riverside parks, strong community vibe, and excellent schools.

What is the number one crime in London?

According to the Office for National Statistics, many crimes recorded against people increased between the years ending June 2015 and March 2025, including violence against the person (40%), possession of offensive weapons (23%), sexual offences (75%) and theft from the person (207%).

What city in the United Kingdom has the highest crime rate?

Are the elephants still at Spitalfields?

Currently roaming around the iconic Spitalfields Market, walk amongst our 21 life-sized bronze elephants and get to know the real-life orphans that have inspired this public art installation. Entry to the outdoor sculpture exhibit is free.

Was Spitalfields a meat market?

Located in the heart of East London, this is the original East London market place that has been on-site for over 350 years. It all started back in 1638 when King Charles I gave a licence for flesh, fowl and roots to be sold on Spittle Fields, which used to be a rural area on the eastern outskirts of London.

Why is everyone called the goat?

Its origins come from boxer Muhammad Ali, who was referred to as "The Greatest." His title eventually became "The Greatest of All Time," or "G.O.A.T." The term was later used for an album by rapper LL Cool J: "G.O.A.T. featuring James T. Smith: The Greatest of All Time."

What is the nicest part of London?

The North London neighborhoods of Highbury and Islington have long-since been among the capital's most sought-after areas. Spreading out either side of bustling Upper Street, Islington is the lively heart of the area.

What is the crime rate in Spitalfields?

Annual total crime rate in Spitalfields & Banglatown (ward) is 287 per thousand resident population. This can be rated as 7 out of 10 or high crime level compared to other wards in England and Wales.

Is it worth going to Spitalfields Market?

Whether you're hunting for a unique outfit, handcrafted homewares, or a bite to eat, there's always something new to discover. Between Liverpool Street Station and Shoreditch, the market buzzes with themed trading days, from antiques and vinyl to art and fashion, and is one of London's most iconic shopping spots.

What is the poshest part of East London?

The Isle of Dogs is home to a range of residential communities, green spaces and Canary Wharf's business hub. While it topped the list of most prestigious places to live in London, its properties are known to be cheaper to buy than those in Canary Wharf.

Why is there a goat in Spitalfields Market?

The Goat is a symbol for the waves of immigrants who found sanctuary in Spitalfields. Spitalfields derived its name from the hospital and priory, St Mary's Spittel, founded in 1197. Explore this charming museum here.

What's the difference between Spitalfields Market and Old Spitalfields Market?

Old Spitalfields Market is a covered market in Spitalfields, London. There has been a market on the site for over 350 years. In 1991 it gave its name to New Spitalfields Market in Leyton, where fruit and vegetables are now traded.

What are the main products sold in the Spitalfields Market?

London's oldest market

Spitalfields Traders Market can have anywhere up to 110 stalls on its busiest days. An eclectic offering of hand-made t-shirts, fine jewellery and even dog clothes ensures there is something for everyone's taste and budget.

What is the most criminal city in the UK?

According to police-recorded crime data by Community Safety Partnership area (year ending December 2024), the top 10 cities for crime rate (excluding fraud) in England are London, Manchester, Bristol, Doncaster, Liverpool, Leeds, Bradford, Birmingham, Wakefield, and Leicester.