Greenwich Market
Shopping Center | London | England | United Kingdom
Traditional market in Greenwich
The Greenwich Market in London, England, is one of the city's most historic and well-known markets and is among the most popular shopping and leisure destinations in the Greenwich area. Its history dates back to the 14th century when it was first active as a market, but it was officially established in 1700 through a royal charter obtained from the Commissioners of Greenwich Hospital. Originally, it served as a trading place for food such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and poultry, as well as everyday goods, before transforming over the centuries into a modern marketplace for art, crafts, and culinary delights. Today, Greenwich Market is the only market in London located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as "Maritime Greenwich," which was added to the list in 1997. This recognition underscores its cultural and historical significance.
Cultural significance of the market
The market is covered and spans an area surrounded by cobblestone streets, giving it a charming, almost village-like atmosphere—a rarity amid the hustle and bustle of London. The distinctive architecture, featuring a glass roof renewed in the early 20th century, protects visitors and vendors from the often unpredictable British weather and contributes to the welcoming ambiance. With around 120 stalls, Greenwich Market offers a wide range of goods and experiences. It is particularly well-known for its variety of crafts, antiques, and unique gifts. Here, one can find handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, artworks by local artists, collectibles, vinyl records, and books—a paradise for lovers of unique and high-quality products.
Covered market with crafts
A central attraction of Greenwich Market is its culinary offerings. The food court, also known as the "street food" area, entices visitors with an international selection of dishes freshly prepared by over 40 vendors. Visitors can choose from options like South American empanadas, Thai green curry, Sicilian cannoli, Cuban sandwiches, or classic British specialties like pie and mash. This diversity reflects the multicultural nature of London and makes the market a meeting point for food enthusiasts. Surrounding the market are also traditional pubs and cafés, such as Goddards, which has been known for its pie-and-mash dishes since 1890, rounding off the culinary experience.
Culinary offerings at Greenwich Market
The offerings at Greenwich Market vary depending on the day of the week. On certain days, the focus is on antiques and collectibles, while other days are characterized by crafts and design. Particularly on weekends, the market transforms into a vibrant center for art and creativity, as local designers and artists showcase their works. This flexibility ensures that the market attracts a diverse audience—from tourists seeking souvenirs to locals appreciating the atmosphere and unique finds. Its proximity to other attractions such as the Cutty Sark, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum also makes it an ideal starting point for a day trip to Greenwich.
Unique gifts at the market
The development of the market also reflects the changing times. After World War II, it served for many years as a wholesale market for meat, fish, and vegetables but fell into decline in the 1980s. Inspired by the success of Camden Lock Market in North London, Greenwich Market was then restructured, with a new emphasis on art, crafts, and street food. This reorientation paid off: today, it is a thriving center that combines tradition and modernity. A special detail is the wooden ceiling clock, donated in 2009 by a vendor named Les Grayson to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the craft market.
The market is well-connected to public transport. The nearest Docklands Light Railway station, Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich, is just a few minutes' walk away, and buses as well as Thames Clipper boats provide convenient access. This accessibility, combined with the option to stroll in for free, makes Greenwich Market an inviting destination for all. It is not only a place for shopping but also a social hub where events like live music or seasonal festivals regularly take place, such as during Christmas when the market is festively adorned and additional stalls serving mulled wine and treats are set up.
