Billingsgate Market

The basics

With its very early morning opening hours, Billingsgate Market rarely features on walking tours, but it’s still a draw for foodie travelers. Rather than having a plan, it’s best to just stroll in and take a walk around. If you’re not buying and just browsing, you can hop on the Jubilee Line to London Bridge, followed by a 4-minute walk to Borough Market, which offers street food aplenty.

Things to know before you go

• Dress warmly and wear waterproof footwear—ideally wellies—as there’s lots of water around and the ground can be slippery.

• Bring a bag if you intend to purchase fish, as some shops give you transparent bags, so you may want an extra.

• Remember it’s a wholesale market, so you’ll probably have to purchase items by the box or kilo, not small filets here and there.

• Don’t be afraid to haggle with the merchants, as there are bargains to be had.

• Children under 12 are not permitted at the market.

• There is an online permit process for taking photos and video.

How to get there

To reach Billingsgate Market, take the DLR train to Poplar or Blackwall station, both just a 5–10-minute walk away. The Canary Wharf tube station is also nearby, about a 15-minute walk. Keep in mind, the market isn’t actually in Billingsgate but rather at West India Docks in Poplar. For drivers, there's parking available, but it fills up quickly. Follow signs for public parking, where it's pay and display.

When to get there

For the best catches, arrive early to Billingsgate Market, which typically opens at 4am, Tuesday–Saturday, and is bustling with buyers. The peak time is 5–6am, with some traders packing up by 6:30am; you may even find some end-of-trading bargains around 7am. Saturdays are very busy, and the quietest days are usually Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Where to eat at Billingsgate

At Billingsgate, one café stands out as an institution—the Billingsgate Cafe, lovingly referred to as "Piggy’s Cafe" due to its evolving name over the years. Known for its delicious seafood offerings, the kitchen plates up hearty bacon and scallop breakfast baps (sandwiches) and haddock and poached egg breakfasts, paired perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. The café keeps its own hours, so check in advance.

Ways to explore

Due to its early morning opening hours, Billingsgate Market is rarely included on walking tours, but it’s still a draw for foodie travelers. Rather than having a plan, it’s best just to stroll in and take a walk around. If you’re not buying and just browsing, you could combine it with a visit to Borough Market—take a quick Jubilee line ride to London Bridge, followed by a 4-minute walk. For a more convenient experience, some travelers book a private half-day tour that includes transportation and a driver/guide.

Accessibility

The market isn’t fully wheelchair-accessible: The ground can be slippery, and the area can be very crowded.

Age limits

Children under age 12 are not allowed on the market floor.

What to pack

Cash, bottled water, small bag

What to wear

Non-slip waterproof footwear, warm layers

Not allowed

Suitcases, folding carts, shopping carts, taking photos or filming without permission

Amenities

Paid parking, restaurants

Address

Billingsgate Market is located on Trafalgar Way in Poplar, just a 5-minute walk from Poplar and Blackwall DLR stations. Public transportation is the most convenient way to travel, but some travelers park on-site.

Driving

From Central London, take the A1203 through the Limehouse Link Tunnel, exit onto Aspen Way, then take the first slip road and follow signs to Billingsgate Market. Paid parking is available, but arrive early as spaces fill quickly.

Public transportation

If traveling by public transit, you can get the DLR to either Poplar or Blackwall stations, or the Jubilee line to Canary Wharf, which is around a 10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

The market is usually open between 4am and 8:30am. Arrive as early as possible, because some traders may pack up by 6:30am.

Best days to visit

Market days are typically Tuesdays through Saturdays. Avoid Sundays, Mondays, and bank holidays, and check the website for up-to-date schedules.

Best months to visit

The market is open year-round, offering seafood from around the world. Visit from June to September for typically mild, comfortable weather in London.

Special events

The market doesn’t host its own events; however, nearby Canary Wharf offers summer activities like Summer Screens, an outdoor series of films, sports broadcasts, and more.