Why is Billingsgate shutting down?

Billingsgate Market is closing due to the City of London Corporation deeming the current Docklands site outdated, inefficient, and "no longer fit for purpose," with plans to redevelop the valuable land into thousands of new homes. Following a cancelled relocation to Dagenham, a new site in the Royal Docks is now planned for 2028.

Why are they closing the Billingsgate Market?

Billingsgate Market (and Smithfield) is closing because its current site is outdated, inefficient, and causes congestion, with plans for relocation to the Royal Docks in East London scrapped due to soaring costs, leading the City of London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

What is happening with Billingsgate?

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.

Why is the Billingsgate Market moving?

New site near Thames planned for historic markets

They need a new home because Smithfield Market's current site in the City of London is to be turned into cultural space, while Billingsgate Market at Poplar, east London, is to be used for new homes.

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

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.

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.

Where are Londoners moving to in 2025?

In 2025, 68% of London leavers stayed in the South of England (South East, South West or East of England) – the highest proportion since 2021 and up from 62% in 2024. This marks a reversal of the pandemic and then affordability-led trend that pushed buyers further into the Midlands and North.

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.

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.

Why is the stock market suddenly crashing?

A stock market crash is a sudden dramatic decline of stock prices across a major cross-section of a stock market, resulting in a significant loss of paper wealth. Crashes are driven by panic selling and underlying economic factors. They often follow speculation and economic bubbles.

What film is Mark Wahlberg filming in London today?

Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Monaghan and Kit Harington have all been in action filming in London recently on The Family Plan 2 for Apple TV+.

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.

What is the biggest Christmas market in the UK?

Manchester Christmas Market

Manchester boasts arguably the UK's largest Christmas market, and one of the largest in Europe, with more than 300 stalls spread across the ten sites included in the 2025 Manchester Christmas Markets trail.

Where do rich Londoners live?

Knightsbridge. Wealthy places in London don't come much wealthier than Knightsbridge. Period townhouses and cute mews set along cobbled streets jostle for attention with lavish new developments, including The Knightsbridge Apartments and One Hyde Park.

What not to do in London as an American?

13 Things Not To Do When Visiting London

• DON'T try to use cash on TFL buses. ...
• DON'T catch the Tube from Leicester Square to Covent Garden. ...
• DON'T be late! ...
• DON'T leave things to the last minute. ...
• DON'T go anywhere without an umbrella. ...
• DON'T stand near large puddles. ...
• DON'T swim in the Thames. ...
• DON'T leave your bags unattended.

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.
 

Why is Billingsgate closing?

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.
 

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.