London underground: our guide the craft markets. Not only Big Ben and Tower Bridge. Discover the underground and pulsing London through its hidden craft markets.

London, a multifaceted metropolis with countless souls, colors and sounds. Not only Big Ben, London Eye, Buckimgam Palace or Tower Bridge. There is an “underground” and pulsing London, hidden in all the craft markets of the city. From vintage clothes in Brick Lane to the antiques of Portobello Road, from Smithfields meat market to the records stands of Old Spitalfied, here is our alternative guide to discover six interesting London markets.

“Music Junkies”: Old Spitalfields Market

A real mecca for DJs, but also for simple good music collectors. Old Spitalfields Market, on the second Saturday and on the first and third Friday of the month, offers a true “Records Fair”, among many stands from all over UK, you could even  to come across with the 45 laps you’ve been dreaming for years.

Mind the gap: Aldgate East

“Flower Paradise”: Columbia Road Flower Market

If you have a green thumb and you are in East London, you can not miss this quaint and colorful market: in the Columbia Road Flower Market you will find all kinds of plants and flowers, but also bulbs, seeds, shovels and hoes, to give a green touch to your London trip.

Mind the gap: Bethnal Green Tube Station

“All you can eat”: Borough Market

This indoor food and wine market, a short walk from London Bridge, combines in one place the culinary cultures of  all over the world: an explosion of colours and flavors, from Thai chicken to English roast-beef, including spicy Indian rice, Mexican empanadas or Italian pizzas. Make sure to get in on an empty stomach!

Mind the gap: London Bridge

The “Classy thing”: Portobello Road

In the middle of the fancy and famous Notthing Hill area, Portobello Road market is a “must-see”, although at the weekend it could become too crowded. It offers plenty of vintage clothes and food stalls, but it is especially famous for its stands full of ancient objects, furniture and paintings, a real heaven for antique lovers. Maybe you could find that fancy sounvenir you were looking for!

Mind the gap: Notting Hill Gate

“Vegan Hell”: Smithfields Market

You’ve been all day long strolling around London, visiting museums, vintage flea markets and double-decker bus? You will be tired … and hungry. West Smithfield, once the city slaughterhouse, is today the last meat market still open in London. It’s not a popular place among tourists , but here you will surely find fresh and quality food. Just for morning people: it opens at 4 a.m.

Mind the gap: Fernchurch Street

“Vintage-crazy”: Brick Lane

A really multi-ethnic and colourful oasis, the East End area of Brick Lane is a real maze of vintage and ethnic markets, well known by young Londoners and beloved by tourists from all over the world. If you are looking for an old military coat, a 50’s dress or, why not, an original Indian sari, this is the place for you. And between one purchase and another, take the time to admire the beautiful and colourful street art on the Brick Lane walls.

Mind the gap: Tower Hamlets