Spitalfields

The Basics

Spitalfields plays an important role on most east London, which focus on everything from food and culture to contemporary street art. Walking tours offer a more intimate glimpse of the area and usually also cover areas such as hipster-capital Shoreditch, culturally-diverse Brick Lane, and Whitechapel, the former hunting ground of Jack the Ripper. Keen shoppers can take advantage of tours that offer round-trip transfers between Spitalfields and other popular London markets.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Spitalfields is the name of the area, and is also used to refer to the trader’s market.

• While most vendors accept card, it’s a good idea to carry some cash if you’re exploring London’s markets.

• First-time visitors sometimes confuse Spitalfields market

• Don’t forget warm clothes in winter, as even the indoor markets get chilly.

How to Get There

Liverpool Street station lies just east of the area, and is a short walk away from the main attractions. Aldgate East and Shoreditch High Street are also within easy walking distance. The main thoroughfares of Bishopsgate and Commercial Street are both served by several city buses.

When to Get There

There’s always something to see in Spitalfields, though if you’re after any particular wares it’s worth checking which markets are running ahead of time. For instance, Saturday’s style market is a top draw for fashionistas.

Sensationalism versus Social History

Spitalfields is known for its links to Jack the Ripper, but a historical tour can reveal more about the social tragedy behind the sensationalised crimes. Look out for Victorian landmarks such as the Providence Row Night Refuge for insight into the extreme poverty that permeated 19th-century London and led to the horrifying acts of violence against the city’s most vulnerable people.

Ways to explore

Spitalfields is best known for its concentration of markets—including Spitalfields, Brick Lane, and Petticoat Lane markets—where you can buy everything from vintage records to fresh produce. Brick Lane, which runs through the neighborhood, is known for its curry houses, bagel bakeries, vintage clothing stores, and hip cafés. Many people also visit to check out the rich collection of street art in the area.

Spitalfields is central to many East London walking tours, including those focused on food, women’s history, and street art. These tours offer insights into the neighborhood’s colorful history and the diverse people who shaped it.

Accessibility

Varies throughout the neighborhood; Spitalfields Market is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None, although individual businesses may vary

What to pack

While most vendors accept cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash if you’re exploring London’s markets.

What to wear

London is a fashionable town, and this is a fashionable part of London. Blend in by dressing well, but dress for the weather (even the indoor markets are chilly in winter).

Not allowed

Off-leash dogs; Dogs kept on-leash are welcome in the neighborhood, including the Spitalfields Market. Individual businesses may have different policies.

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, stores, restaurants, cafés, bars

Address

Spitalfields is in East London’s historic East End and is centered around Commercial Street and Brick Lane.

Driving

Navigating London’s traffic, parking, and congestion zone is challenging. Hail a cab or book a rideshare instead.

Public transportation

Liverpool Street Station (Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) is a 5-minute walk from Spitalfields Market. Several bus routes also stop nearby, including 35, 47, 48, 78, 135, 149, 205, 242, and 388.

Best times to visit

Early morning is quietest, but if you visit in the evening, you’ll often come across live music and pop-up events taking place.

Best days to visit

Visit on Saturday for the Spitalfields Style Market and Sunday for the Brick Lane Market.

Best months to visit

The summer months are ideal for strolling through the neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Special events

The 2-day Spitalfields Art Market takes place every month except January.