Borough Market is one of my favourite discoveries in London, however, the crush of people and thousands of camera-snapping tourists can make it a bit of a trial to visit. I like to walk through a market – not shuffle, which is the usual state of this market on a Saturday (watch out – it’s closed on Sunday). However, London does have a flourishing set of farmers markets that are hidden from the tourist stampede. You just have to know where to find them.
There is a great web resource London Farmers Markets which has maps of every market in London, along with opening hours. It also includes a handy list of the growers who (usually) show up.
I’ve found a great market in Marylebone which happens every Sunday. It has the lovely feel of a local market, and sets up shop in a quiet car park off the main road. It is chock full of fantastic stalls, including goat cheese, pies, and the most fantastic sausages. Guinness and Beef sausage anyone?
On a Sunday morning we try to wander through the market and pick up something unusual and special for the week. There is also an amazing salad-bar style stall. There’s boxes upon boxes of greens – including lots I had never tried before (always the sign of a good market). Sorrel salad anyone?
Additionally, this market is not far from Regent’s Park – making a perfect afternoon of market-visiting followed by park-wandering.
Plus, you get to feel part of the best parts of London -which of course happen outside of the famous museums, gardens, and promenades. Although I would recommend visiting Borough Market – but perhaps not for your weekly shop.
