Broadway Market

The Basics

Broadway Market is one of London’s busiest and hippest shopping spots. Located in the Hackney area, the market features stores and stalls selling organic meat, fresh fruits and vegetables, smoked salmon and oysters, baked goods, cheese, and even vintage clothing. After visiting the market and stocking up on food, many visitors head to nearby London Fields for a picnic in the park.

Visit the market as part of a food tour that takes you off the tourist path and into the locals’ favorite shops and eateries. East London-focused food tours usually also visit the hip neighborhood of Hoxton.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Broadway is a must-visit for foodies and those with an interest in local London life.

• The market can get very busy, so give yourself plenty of time to peruse the stalls.

• The market is home to around 135 stalls selling everything from kebabs to vintage records.

• The original market is thought to have provided inspiration for the long-running British soap opera,EastEnders.

How to Get There

The nearest tube station to Broadway Market is Bethnal Green on the Central Line, a 15-minute walk away or a 10-minute ride on the No. 388 bus. Alternatively, London Fields, on the London Overground, is a seven-minute walk away.

When to Get There

Broadway Market is open every Saturday and from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Try to arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds. Even though the stalls are closed during the week, it’s still worth a visit for the small independent coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

The Cat and Mutton

At the northern end of the street, the Cat and Mutton Pub, which was established in 1729, has weathered all of the changes that have taken place around Broadway Market. It has also adapted with the times and is now a retro-outfitted hipster hangout serving cocktails, ales, and delicious roasts. On summer days and evenings, the place is packed with revelers spilling out onto the sidewalk.

Ways to explore

Visit the market as part of an East London food tour that takes you off the tourist path and into locals’ favorite shops and eateries, perhaps with stops in Hoxton, Shoreditch, and Brick Lane. You can also explore on a tour of the area’s weekend markets, taking in Spitalfields Market, Brick Lane Market, and, on Sundays, the Columbia Road flower market. Or visit independently, stock up on fresh fruits, smoked salmon, baked treats, and cheese, and head for a picnic in nearby London Fields.

Accessibility

Broadway Market is smooth and even, with many stalls at wheelchair-friendly heights; however, it can get very crowded on sunny weekends.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bring a tote or reusable shopping bag, as the market has a “no plastic bags” rule.

What to wear

If you’re planning on a picnic, bring a layer. British weather can turn on a hairpin.

Not allowed

It’s poor form to use a restroom if you’re not eating or drinking at the venue. Head to the public bathrooms in London Fields if need strikes.

Amenities

Cafés, bars, restaurants

Address

Broadway Market is near London Fields in Hackney, East London, about 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) northeast of Trafalgar Square.

Driving

With traffic-calming measures in place at market time and limited street parking, Broadway Market isn’t a destination to drive to. Make like a local and walk, cycle, rideshare, or use public transportation.

Public transportation

Broadway Market is less than a 10-minute walk from London Fields station, served by the Weaver overground line. If you’d rather travel by tube, take the Central line to Bethnal Green and walk north for around 20 minutes.

Best times to visit

The market is open 9am–5pm on Saturday and 10am–4pm on Sunday. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Best days to visit

Saturday sees the most stalls and the biggest crowds, although the stores and eateries are also open midweek.

Best months to visit

There’s something on at Broadway Market year-round; to enjoy the outdoor experience to the max, visit during summer (June through August).

Special events

During December, the market gets in the Christmas spirit, with workshops, gifts galore, and occasional Friday openings.