Who built the Smithfield market?

The current, iconic Victorian Smithfield Market buildings in London were designed by the City Architect Sir Horace Jones. Construction of the main East and West market buildings began in 1867 and was completed in 1868, with further sections like the General Market and the former Poultry Market added in the following decades.

What is the history of the Smithfield Market?

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…

Who was the architect of the Smithfield Market?

The buildings, designed by City Architect Sir Horace Jones, were commissioned in 1866 and completed in November 1868 at a cost of £993,816. The Metropolitan Meat and Poultry Act also authorised the development of the Poultry Market which opened in 1875.

Who owns Smithfield 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.

Why is the Smithfield Market closing?

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.

Smithfield Market started out in 1844 as stalls, then in 1853 an iron and glass roof was built

Is Smithfield family owned?

Smithfield Foods, Inc., is a Chinese-owned pork producer and food-processing company based in Smithfield, Virginia. Founded in 1936 as the Smithfield Packing Company by Joseph W. Luter and his son, the company is the largest pig and pork producer in the world.

Can the public buy at Smithfield Market?

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. 

Does the Smithfield Market still exist?

In the week that the City of London voted to close Smithfield Market for good after more than 800 years of trading, I publish the work of photographer Orlando Gili who has been down at the market, documenting the last generation of butchers to work at this ancient site.

What is the most prestigious department store in London?

1. Harrods. Find rare goods and luxury items at Harrods, a true British icon. For luxury shopping in London, it's hard to beat.

Who originally owned Smithfield?

1936. Smithfield Packing Company was founded by Joe Luter Sr. and Joe Luter Jr. on Commerce Street in Smithfield. Years later, statues honoring the founding family, including Joe Luter III, were erected on our Smithfield Foods campus.

Was Christopher Wren a polymath?

Sir Christopher Wren (1632 to 1723) was a brilliant polymath: an astronomer, mathematician, anatomist, inventor, founder member and President of the Royal Society, and King Charles II's Surveyor-General of the King's Works. He was considered by many to be the greatest architect of his time.

What is the oldest shop in London?

A Visit To London's Oldest Shop: Lock And Co Hatters. I recently paid a visit to one of London's most iconic shops: Lock and Co Hatters in St James's. It is considered to be the oldest shop in London, but also is said to be the oldest hat shop in the world and is, amazingly, still run by the same family today.

Who were the big 5 architects?

The New York Five was a group of architects based in New York City whose work was featured in the 1972 book Five Architects. The architects, Peter Eisenman, Michael Graves, Charles Gwathmey, John Hejduk, and Richard Meier, are also often referred to as "the Whites".

Who is the founder of Smithfield?

In 1936, Joseph W. Luter and his son founded a small meat-packing company, The Smithfield Packing Company, along the tributary of the historic James River in the colonial town of Smithfield, Virginia.

Is Smithfield Market worth visiting?

With over eight centuries of history as a livestock market, its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-see landmark. Visitors can explore the market's role in London's evolution, gaining insights into the city's past while observing its vibrant present-day operations.

What was Princess Diana's favorite department store?

The late Princess of Wales was reportedly a big fan of JCPenney. The American department store offers clothes and shoes, beauty products, jewelry, and home décor. Royal author Edward White shared this interesting tidbit in Dianaworld: An Obsession, as reported by Marie Claire.

What is the poshest shop in the UK?

Harrods in London is the most luxurious shop in the UK. This iconic department store is renowned for its world-class customer service and luxury goods. More than 100,000 visitors flock to Harrods every day to experience this famous British institution.

Who is Harrods's biggest competitor?

harrods.com vs Competitors, December 2025. The closest competitor to harrods.com are selfridges.com, flannels.com and harveynichols.com. To understand more about harrods.com and its competitors, sign up for a free account to explore Semrush's Traffic Analytics and Market Explorer tools.

Can anyone buy from Smithfield Market?

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. 

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 goat meat called in the UK?

In the UK, goat meat is usually just called goat meat, though it can be called chevon (from adult goats) or kid (from young goats) for more specific culinary terms, but unlike in South Asia where "mutton" often means goat, in the UK mutton specifically refers to meat from older sheep.
 

What's the best time to visit Smithfield Market?

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 is the most famous food market in London?

Borough Market: The Most Famous for a Reason

One of London's culinary cornerstones, Borough Market has withstood the test of time, having existed in the heart of Southwark for centuries in some form or another.