Arcadia England

In her latest London Diary, guest blogger Ashley Blaes explores London's many markets.

Coming from a relatively unexciting city in the Midwest, London’s bustling streets and fast-paced energy was jarring despite my previous travels in the UK prior to moving here for school. One of the things I was most excited to try when I first took the plunge into exploring a massive city like London was its markets. The only one I have back home is a small two-story covered food market downtown which is only open half of the week if I’m lucky. In my research of activities to do around London in my free time when I wouldn’t be studying, I saw loads of videos and pictures of colourful streets and eclectic buildings filled with patrons perusing for vintage finds and eating delicious new foods that looked positively mouth-watering. I was overwhelmed by the sights and excursions suddenly available for me to explore. The only way to get to know this place was to dive in head first, so in my first semester abroad, I did just that.

With such an international population and metropolitan atmosphere, London has a wide array of shopping districts which cater to various interests. Most markets are within walking distance of the student accommodations in Central London. Any fellow foodies out there will be happy to know that the London markets have thousands of international cuisines to try! My local markets happened to be right around the corner on the Southbank: on weekdays after class, I occasionally treated myself to a new cuisine from the food stalls lining Lower Marsh. One favourite of mine is a Korean dish called Bibimbap, which consists of rice, fried egg, veggies, and kimchi, a type of spicy fermented cabbage. During the start of December, the Southbank book market under Waterloo Bridge gave way to a holiday market, which boasted grand views of the Thames lit up by colourful fairy lights adorning the trees. Festive foods like mulled wine and warm Belgian waffles were served in the temporary stalls lining the walkways of the south bank. For a Scandinavian Julebord potluck feast hosted by a Norwegian friend of mine, I stopped by Borough Market in Southwark to buy fresh veggies for my roast contribution.

One of the best ways to get to know a new culture or nation is through their food. At Brick Lane, I tried Venezuelan Arepas for the first time. In Borough Market, I ate Indian street food with friends to the sound of the trains rumbling on the tracks overhead. Greenwich market offered up fresh-pressed juices and Italian gelato, while Old Spitalfields Market near Shoreditch is one of my regular places to get bubble tea. Leadenhall Market is just plain beautiful to look at if you’re ever in the City; With the glowing lanterns illuminating the arched blue and gold ceilings, I feel like I’m staring up at the night sky while I have a drink at the pub. In the summer months, there’s no shortage of fresh fruit to be found at nearly all the markets, which I like to purchase to take to picnics in the parks.

The sounds of vendors shouting their wares for the day and customers bargaining for a good vintage find can be found in Portobello Road and Camden Markets. Brick Lane has consistently brought me good luck in my vintage thrift finds—I’m constantly on the hunt for good 35mm film cameras or fun jackets. Covent Garden’s market under the piazza is where I’ve purchased gifts for friends and family back home: everything from hats and jewelry to posters and books can be found here. If you’re looking to take a break from sight-seeing all the famous and crowded landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, or Buckingham Palace, the markets can offer a fresh perspective. Shopping on a student budget can be difficult to justify at times but I’ve found there’s something for everyone in any or all of the markets mentioned in this post.

In today’s current climate crisis, it’s important to be conscientious of our footprint and environmental impact when it comes to consumerism. Shopping locally can reduce packaging waste and supports friendly vendors in the area so they can continue to have business. While abroad, you’re certain to find something you’d like to take home as a memento of your time in your host country. My advice: always carry a reusable tote bag on you because you never know what you might find!