Southbank is one of the best spots in London for market lovers, as it offers easy access to some of the city’s most popular food stalls and independent shopping destinations. From riverside street food and fresh produce to boutique gifts and handcrafted finds, Southbank and the surrounding area place a variety of London markets within easy reach.

With excellent transport links, as well as walkable routes across central London, residents at Opus London are perfectly placed to explore the city’s best markets.

5 of the Best Food Markets near London’s Southbank

From artisan ingredients to delicious global dishes, London is home to a range of food markets with something for every taste.

1.) Southbank Centre Food Market

A popular weekend market for street food and baked goods boasting global flavours, Southbank Centre Food Market is located just a stone’s throw away from the river. With its range of options and lively atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for casual lunch or a light snack during a relaxed afternoon in the Southbank.

How to get there from Opus London: Take a short walk along the Southbank towards the Southbank Centre. The food market is located behind Royal Festival Hall.

2.) Lower Marsh Market

Just behind Waterloo Station, Lower Marsh Market combines historic character with a strong selection of independent food traders, cafés and lunch spots. It offers a more local neighbourhood feel than some of London’s larger markets.

How to get there from Opus London: Around a 15-minute walk from Opus, towards Waterloo Station.

3.) London Bridge’s Borough Market

One of London’s more famous food spots, the historic Borough Market is known for artisan ingredients and ready-to-eat options. With history dating back around 1000 years, this market is a favourite among Londoners and a must-see for visitors.

How to get there from Opus London: A 20-minute walk along Southwark Street or a quicker journey on the underground from Southwark to London Bridge.

4.) Seven Dials Food Market

Located in Covent Garden, Seven Dials Food Market is an indoor food hall set within a restored historic warehouse. While it’s not a traditional street market, its wide variety of independent vendors makes it one of central London’s popular foodie hotspots.

How to get there from Opus London: You can get there on foot, in half an hour, by crossing Blackfriars Bridge and heading towards Covent Garden.

5.) Maltby Street Market

Tucked beneath Bermondsey’s railway arches, Maltby Street Market is a popular weekend market known for its artisan food traders. It offers a more intimate atmosphere than some of London’s larger markets and is ideal for leisurely lunches or coffee stops.

How to get there from Opus London: You can walk there in just over half an hour or take the Thameslink from Blackfriars to London Bridge. Buses 63 and 381 will also get you there in 20 minutes.

The best London markets for shopping & gifts

Apart from its iconic food markets, London is also home to several marketplaces offering a selection of unique, artisan gifts.

Covent Garden

A famous shopping destination, Covent Garden is home to boutique stores as well as market-style stalls selling artisan gifts.

Located in Central London, Covent Garden is easy to access from other areas of the city, meaning it makes a perfect day out when paired with nearby food destinations such as Borough Market and Seven Dials.

How to get there from Opus London: By foot, it’ll take around 20 minutes to cross the river via Blackfriars or Waterloo Bridge and head into Covent Garden.

Old Spitalfields Market

Having been around for over 350 years, Old Spitalfields Market is a famous covered market where you can find fashion, homeware and vintage finds from a mix of established brands and creative traders.

How to get there from Opus London: Cross Blackfriars Bridge and catch bus 26 from Ludgate Circus stop E to Liverpool Street Station, with the market just a short walk away. Or catch Circle or District lines from Blackfriars to Aldgate East.

Explore more of the capital from Opus London

From iconic food markets to independent craft stalls, Southbank places some of London’s best markets within easy reach. Living at Opus London means residents can enjoy this easy access to the capital’s vibrant market culture, while also being within easy reach of endless things to do, in Southbank and around the city.

London Markets: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest market to Opus London?

Southbank Centre Food Market and Lower Marsh Market are the closest London markets, with both being within walking distance of Opus London.

Can you walk to Borough Market from the Southbank?

Yes, you can walk from Southbank to Borough Market in just under 15 minutes.  

Where is the most convenient place to buy fresh food near the Southbank?

Southbank Centre Food Market is the best London food market if you’re looking for convenience, as it’s just a short walk from Opus London. However, Borough Market is the best-known food market in the city.