When did the billingsgate market close?

Billingsgate Market, currently located in Poplar (Canary Wharf), is set to close in 2028. The City of London Corporation announced in November 2024 that it would cease operations at the current site due to rising costs, abandoning previous plans to move to Dagenham. The market is planned to relocate to a new site at Albert Island in the Royal Docks.

Why is the Billingsgate Market closing 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Billingsgate Market (and Smithfield) is closing because its current site is outdated, inefficient, and causes congestion, with plans for relocation to the Royal Docks in East London scrapped due to soaring costs, leading the City of London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.
 

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.

Where did the Billingsgate Market move to?

After almost eight centuries at the heart of life in the capital and a period where their future lay in doubt, the historic Smithfield and Billingsgate markets are to get a new home on a former industrial site in east London.

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.

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

Where was the original billingsgate fish market?

The Victorians levelled up Billingsgate

Fish was sold in the open air, from stalls and basic wooden sheds. The first purpose-built market was constructed in 1850 on Lower Thames Street.

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.

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.

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 the Billingsgate Market moving to Dagenham?

The City of London announces that the markets will still close, but they will NOT now relocate to Dagenham. This seems to spell the end for Smithfield Market and Billingsgate Market as coherent entities.

Is billingsgate fish market cheap?

The docklands discount

Billingsgate is not London's best known market, but it might be the best value for money. One kilogram of fresh salmon goes for 14 quid, 17 if it's a premium fillet.

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.

Is Liberty of London closing down?

Retail group Liberty will close all its UK regional stores from June 6 at an estimated cost of £5m. Only its Regent Street store in London, airport shops and three Muji outlets will remain open.

What is the building next to Old Billingsgate?

Formerly an office used by His Majesty's Revenue and Customs, the Custom House is neighboured on the waterfront by Sugar Quay to the east and Old Billingsgate Market to the west.

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.