Smithfield Market

The Basics

Soak up the history at Smithfield Market—it was once a field used for grazing animals, has hosted medieval jousting tournaments, and was the spot where “heretics,” including Scottish revolutionary Sir William Wallace, were executed. Smithfield was transformed from a livestock market to a covered meat market in the 19th century by architect Sir Horace Jones. Today, come to experience the only major wholesale meat market left in central London.

Smithfield Market may be included on select walking or bike tour itineraries of London, and, thanks to its association with William Wallace, is a highlight stop on haunted London tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Smithfield Market is located on one level and is accessible for visitors with limited mobility.

• The market may be frequented by butchers and restaurant professionals, but it is also fully accessible to members of the public.

• Smoking, eating, and drinking are all strictly prohibited.

How to Get There

Take the Circle, Hammersmith & City, or Metropolitan Tube lines to Barbican or Farringdon Stations; Farringdon is also served by Thameslink trains. Smithfield Market can be reached by a number of bus lines, and can be accessed by taxi, by bike, or on foot.

When to Get There

Smithfield Market is open from 2am until midmorning, Monday–Friday (stalls close at different times, but it’s recommended to visit before 7am if you want to see them all open). The market is closed on weekends and bank holidays.

Planned Revitalization

While Smithfield Market has attracted the interest of developers, various heritage organizations have fought to protect the landmark, which is run by the City of London Corporation. Recently, the corporation announced that the Museum of London would take over some Smithfield buildings and its intention to relocate to Smithfield to outside the city.

Ways to explore

Shoppers and visitors are welcome to wander through the central Buyer’s Walk, watching the wholesale traders at work. While there’s little to titillate your social media feed (unless your friends like photos of raw meat), it’s a place to see a real market in action and buy quality cuts of meat. Some traders also offer additional items, such as olive oil or cheese.

To learn about the market’s history, there are early morning Smithfield Market walking tours, or evening ghost tours that focus on the site’s more sinister past as a former execution site. The wider Clerkenwell neighborhood is also known for its historic pubs to stop in for a pint or a meal, while attractions including the Barbican and St. Paul’s Cathedral are within easy walking distance.

Accessibility

The market is laid out on ground level, and the main Buyer’s Walk passageway is wide. However, it’s a busy work environment, so it’s recommended that wheelchair users visit with a companion. Farringdon tube station has step-free access.

Age limits

There are no restrictions, but remember it’s a wholesale night market that’s in action when most kids are in their PJs (some little ones may be sensitive to the sight of certain meat cuts, too).

What to pack

Credit cards or cash to shop, a cool bag to bring home your meat

What to wear

There’s no requirement for protective clothes on the central Buyer’s Walk, so warm, comfy clothing and flat shoes are all that you need.

Not allowed

Drinking, eating, smoking

Amenities

Parking lot with electric vehicle charging bays. There are no on-site restrooms, although there are some in the nearby vicinity.

Address

Smithfield Market is in the City of London financial zone known as the Square Mile. It’s a short walk from St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Barbican.

Driving

While the London Congestion Charge kicks in from 7am (so you avoid it if you visit early), the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) fee is applicable round-the-clock; if your visit falls on either side of 12am, you pay the ULEZ fee for both calendar days. If driving, you can park at the Rotunda car park—market customers get concessionary rates.

Public transportation

Tube trains run from around 5am through to 12am, allowing you to reach Farringdon or Barbican stations via the Circle, Hammersmith & City, or Metropolitan lines. For greater flexibility, there are mainline trains to Farringdon through the night from Liverpool Street, Paddington, and Blackfriars. The 59 bus from central London passes nearby, following similar hours to the tube.

Best times to visit

The market is in trading action from 2am until 7am, when the traders start to leave. Arrive well before 7am to see the market in full flow.

Best days to visit

The site is open Monday through Friday. It closes on Bank Holidays.

Best months to visit

The market is open year-round, but visit in the summer months for the warmest weather.

Special events

Look out for the Smithfields Christmas Eve meat auction when the market’s surplus stock is sold off to the public. Expect a festive and jovial atmosphere, and the chance to buy a nice chunk of meat for your Christmas dinner.