Leadenhall Market
Whittington Ave, Gracechurch St, EC1
Nearest Tube: Bank
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In the 15th Century the legendary Dick Whittington, who was the Lord Mayor of London at the time, designated this site as an official food market and it has been serving the people of London ever since.
However, the history of the site goes back much further as there is evidence that a Roman forum once stood here. |
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One of the most famous characters from the market's past was a gander that frequented the area in the 19th century. From the continent, his fate was originally to be slaughtered along with thousands of other geese who had been sent to the market. But he escaped death and became a much-loved character, known to everyone as Old Tom. He eventually died at an estimated age of 38 and was buried in the market.
Nowadays the market is mainly the haunt of the busy workers in The City, so it is best to go at breakfast time or at lunchtime to fully experience the bustling atmosphere. Essentially it is a food market with lots of quality butchers and fishmongers, but there are also several bars and some shops selling things like chocolates and wines.
Whilst you are there remember to marvel at the iron and glass architecture, which is an excellent example of the Victorian's skill at building such structures.
The market is open Monday-Friday daytime, some shops and bars remain open into the evening.
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