Brick Lane Market

The basics

Visitors to Brick Lane Market have various options to explore this vibrant area. Some join private or shared guided walking tours that delve into East London's history, including the area’s connections to Jack The Ripper, with stops at top landmarks such as Spital Square and Old Spitalfields Market. Street-art tours showcase the area's standout murals, while food tours offer tastings of local delights such as bagels, chocolate, and fish and chips.

Things to know before you go

• Don’t miss the famous street art—including a Banksy piece on Dray Walk, and the crane mural by ROA on Hanbury Street.

• If you want a child-friendly break from shopping, the Spitalfields City Farm is close by.

• Even though many stalls accept credit cards, it’s helpful to bring some cash with you.

• Public restrooms are available at the Old Truman Brewery.

• Many areas are wheelchair accessible, but the markets get very crowded, so it’s best to arrive early.

• Brick Lane is famous for its bagels and great Indian food, if you’re looking for some must-try bites.

How to get there

Brick Lane, which runs between Bethnal Green and Spitalfields, is easy to reach using public transportation. Underground stations such as Aldgate East, Liverpool Street, and Shoreditch High Street offer convenient access; train travelers can head to Liverpool Street station, while overground commuters can use Shoreditch High Street station. Several bus routes, including #8 and #388, also stop at Brick Lane.

When to get there

For a lively Brick Lane experience, Sunday is the best day to visit. The area is full of activity from morning to late afternoon, and all the different markets are open. If you prefer a quieter visit, aim to arrive early in the morning when the crowds are thinner. Some of the markets are also open on Saturdays, such as the Boiler House Market, the Backyard Market, and the Vintage Market.

More markets nearby

After exploring Brick Lane Market, venture to Columbia Road Flower Market, a short distance away, where Sundays bloom with a vivid array of flowers, herbs, and plants. For a diverse culinary experience, head to Spitalfields Market, which is open seven days a week, with different themed markets, family-friendly restaurants, and gourmet street-food trucks.

Ways to explore

Rather than visiting independently, some visitors choose to explore Brick Lane Market on guided tours to help them learn about the area’s history and highlights while they stroll. These tours have different themes, with some focusing on the area’s links to Jack the Ripper, stopping at both Brick Lane Market and Spitalfields Market. Street art tours showcase the area’s standout murals, while food tours offer tastings of local delights such as bagels, donuts, chocolates, and craft beer.

Accessibility

Many areas of the market are wheelchair accessible, but the markets can be very crowded, so it’s best to arrive early.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Cash for street performers or traders who prefer cash, camera, sun protection or umbrella

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layered clothing

Not allowed

Littering, disruptive behavior, flying drones

Amenities

Restrooms at the Truman Brewery, food stalls

Address

Brick Lane is easy to reach using public transportation. Head to Aldgate East, Liverpool Street, or Shoreditch High Street, then walk to the market—either independently or joining up with a group tour.

Driving

Driving near Brick Lane Market is busy and congested, with limited parking. It’s much more convenient to use public transit or a rideshare app.

Public transportation

Ride to Aldgate East (District and Hammersmith & City lines), Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, or Metropolitan lines) or Shoreditch High Street (overground Windrush line), or take bus #8 or #388 to Brick Lane.

Best times to visit

Visit in the morning—close to opening time—usually around 10am or 11am to escape the big afternoon crowds.

Best days to visit

The market is at its best on Saturdays and Sundays—when most of its sections, such as the Tea Rooms, Rinse Showrooms, and Backyard Market are open.

Best months to visit

London weather can be unpredictable, but June through September offer the best chances of clear, pleasant days.

Special events

The Brick Lane Jazz Festival is typically in April, and Christmas in London is always very atmospheric.