The Borough
1 / 10

The Borough

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant London district centered around the iconic Borough Market, offering a world of culinary delights and historic charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better market experience

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The Borough

The Borough

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better market experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant London district centered around the iconic Borough Market, offering a world of culinary delights and historic charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A foodie paradise where you can taste your way through London's diverse culinary scene."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Market Early

Arrive early at Borough Market to snag the best produce and avoid the biggest crowds. :shopping_bags:

🚶‍♀️ Wander Beyond the Market

Don't just stick to the market; explore the charming side streets for unique shops and pubs. :walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Borough Market Delights

Borough Market Delights

Borough Market

A foodie paradise with artisanal produce, street food, and unique ingredients. Taste your way through London's culinary heart.

Historic Charm

Historic Charm

Surrounding streets

Wander through charming lanes, discovering independent shops and historic architecture that tell tales of old London.

Local Pub Culture

Local Pub Culture

Various pubs

Experience the authentic London pub scene at The Borough Bar or The Borough Beer Company, perfect for a relaxing drink.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating The Borough

The Borough is a vibrant area with a lot to explore. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the busiest crowds, especially if you're keen on experiencing the local markets without the weekend rush. Planning your route in advance can save time.

Market Buzz & Local Flavors

The Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, particularly on Saturdays. Exploring the surrounding streets can reveal hidden gems and unique shops.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better market experience
Crowd
Low
When
Friday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, pre-weekend buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Peak market buzz, vibrant energy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Moving to Surrey recommendations

🎯 Explore Market Early

Arrive early at Borough Market to snag the best produce and avoid the biggest crowds. :shopping_bags:

🚶‍♀️ Wander Beyond the Market

Don't just stick to the market; explore the charming side streets for unique shops and pubs. :walking:

reddit.com

Moving to Surrey

🍻 Sample Local Brews

Check out The Borough Beer Company for a taste of local craft beers. :beer:

💳 Cash for Small Stalls

Some smaller market vendors may prefer cash, so carry some with you. :moneywithwings:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Market Early

Arrive early at Borough Market to snag the best produce and avoid the biggest crowds. :shopping_bags:

🚶‍♀️ Wander Beyond the Market

Don't just stick to the market; explore the charming side streets for unique shops and pubs. :walking:

🍻 Sample Local Brews

Check out The Borough Beer Company for a taste of local craft beers. :beer:

💳 Cash for Small Stalls

Some smaller market vendors may prefer cash, so carry some with you. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Borough Market for its incredible variety of high-quality food and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit culinary destination. The surrounding historic streets add to the area's charm, offering a glimpse into London's past. While the market can get very crowded, especially on weekends, the overall experience is highly rewarding for food lovers and explorers alike.

What People Like

Incredible food variety
Vibrant market atmosphere
Historic charm

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Borough is easily accessible via public transport. London Bridge station is the closest major hub, serving Jubilee and Northern Line tubes, as well as National Rail services. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, making it convenient to reach from various parts of London. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of The Borough can be challenging and expensive due to its central London location. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If driving is unavoidable, look for car parks around London Bridge or Southwark, but be prepared for high fees. Reddit

The Borough is best explored on foot, especially Borough Market and its surrounding streets. For longer distances within the area, consider using the extensive London bus network or hopping on the Tube from London Bridge station. Reddit

While there aren't dedicated park and ride facilities directly at The Borough, you could consider parking further out on the Tube lines and completing your journey via public transport to avoid central London congestion charges and parking costs. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a viable option. There are cycle paths leading to the area, and Santander Cycles (bike hire) are available nearby. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian areas, especially around the market. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Borough Market is free to enter. You only pay for the food and goods you purchase from the individual traders. Reddit

Borough Market is typically open Tuesday to Saturday. Hours vary slightly by day, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays generally shorter than Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Always check the official Borough Market website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit. Reddit

The Borough is a district in London, not a ticketed attraction. Entry to the area is free. Charges may apply for specific venues or events within The Borough, such as The Old Borough Hotel if it operates as a ticketed venue. TikTok

Yes, guided food tours of Borough Market are available and can be booked in advance through various tour operators. These tours offer insights into the market's history and its best food stalls. Reddit

Borough Market is largely accessible, with ramps and accessible toilets available. However, due to its historic nature and bustling crowds, some areas might be more challenging to navigate. It's advisable to check their accessibility guide online. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the diverse offerings, from gourmet cheese toasties and oysters to artisanal bread, pastries, and international street food. Don't miss trying samples from various stalls to discover your favorites. Reddit

Beyond the market, explore the historic streets, visit nearby attractions like Shakespeare's Globe or The Shard, or enjoy a drink at one of the many pubs like The Borough Bar. TikTok

Borough Market can be a fun experience for children, offering a chance to see and taste new foods. However, it can get very crowded, so keep a close eye on little ones. Reddit

To avoid the peak crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially Tuesday or Wednesday. Friday afternoons and Saturdays are the busiest times. Reddit

Assistance dogs are welcome in Borough Market. However, due to the busy environment and food safety regulations, pet dogs are generally not permitted inside the market. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Borough Market offers an incredible variety of food, from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to international street food, baked goods, and gourmet meals. You can find everything from British classics to global cuisines. Reddit

Yes, The Borough area has numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a range of dining experiences. Many are located around Borough Market, and you can also find options near London Bridge. TikTok

Popular pubs include The Borough Bar and The George Inn (a historic coaching inn). The Borough Beer Company is also a great spot for craft beer enthusiasts. TikTok

Absolutely! Borough Market is renowned for its high-quality fresh produce, meats, fish, cheeses, and pantry staples, making it a fantastic place to shop for ingredients to cook a meal at home. Reddit

Yes, Borough Market has a wide array of vegetarian and vegan food stalls offering delicious options, from vegan street food to plant-based baked goods and fresh produce. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Borough Market itself offers vibrant scenes of food stalls and bustling crowds. The historic architecture of the surrounding streets and views from nearby vantage points like The Shard also provide excellent photo opportunities. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in Borough Market for personal use. However, it's always polite to ask traders before taking close-ups of their products or stalls, and avoid obstructing pathways. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. For vibrant market shots, midday can be good, but be prepared for crowds. Evening light can be beautiful on the historic buildings. TikTok

Besides the market, look for the historic architecture, the nearby River Thames, and views towards iconic London landmarks. The entrance to The Old Borough Hotel might also offer a photogenic facade. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A fast prime lens can be great for low-light conditions inside covered areas. A wide-angle lens is good for architecture. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Borough, especially Borough Market, can be an exciting adventure for families. Kids will love the sights, sounds, and smells of the market, with plenty of opportunities to try new foods. Pack snacks and drinks for little ones, and be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more manageable. Reddit

Look for kid-friendly food options like pastries, juices, and simple street food. Many stalls offer samples, which can be a fun way for children to explore different tastes. Keep a close eye on children in the busy market environment. Exploring the nearby South Bank offers additional family-friendly attractions like street performers and playgrounds.

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Borough can be explored on a budget, especially if you focus on Borough Market for affordable and delicious food options. Eating street food from the market is significantly cheaper than sitting down at a restaurant. You can assemble a fantastic and filling meal for a reasonable price. Reddit

Utilize public transport to get to The Borough, as parking in central London is expensive. Walking around the market and surrounding historic streets is free and offers a rich experience. Consider visiting on weekdays when prices for some goods might be slightly lower, and crowds are thinner.

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate a good brew, The Borough offers excellent options. The Borough Beer Company is a must-visit, known for its curated selection of craft beers, including local brews. It's a fantastic place to sample unique flavors and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. TikTok

Beyond dedicated beer bars, many traditional pubs in the area, such as The Borough Bar, also offer a good range of ales and lagers. Exploring these establishments allows you to experience the classic London pub scene while enjoying quality beverages. Look out for seasonal specials and local breweries.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Borough Market: A Food Lover's Guide

Borough Market is a cornerstone of The Borough's identity, renowned as one of London's oldest and most prestigious food markets. It's a sensory explosion, brimming with stalls offering everything from fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats to exotic spices, baked goods, and ready-to-eat street food from around the globe. Visitors often spend hours here, sampling delicacies and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Reddit

When visiting, it's advisable to go with an appetite and an open mind. Many traders are passionate about their products and happy to offer samples, allowing you to discover new flavors. Popular choices include gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, fresh oysters, artisanal bread, and a vast array of international cuisines. The market's layout can be a bit of a maze, but that's part of the adventure in discovering hidden culinary gems. Reddit

To make the most of your visit, consider going on a weekday morning to avoid the intense weekend crowds. This allows for a more relaxed browsing experience and easier interaction with the vendors. If you're looking for specific ingredients for a home-cooked meal, Borough Market is an unparalleled source for high-quality, often locally sourced, produce. Reddit

The Historic Charm of The Borough

Beyond the bustling Borough Market, The Borough district is steeped in history, with charming streets and architecture that whisper tales of London's past. Wandering through areas like Winchester Walk or Stoney Street reveals a characterful side of the city, dotted with independent shops, traditional pubs, and historic buildings. This area offers a more tranquil experience compared to the market's vibrant energy. TikTok

Key historical points include the proximity to the River Thames and its ancient wharves, as well as the legacy of the area as a hub for trade and entertainment. You can find remnants of old London, from cobbled alleyways to centuries-old pubs like The George Inn, one of London's last remaining galleried coaching inns. Exploring these nooks and crannies provides a deeper appreciation for the district's evolution. TikTok

For those interested in the arts and culture, the proximity to Shakespeare's Globe and the Tate Modern on the South Bank adds another layer to The Borough's appeal. The blend of historic charm and modern cultural attractions makes it a fascinating area to explore on foot, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. TikTok

Pub Culture and Local Brews

The Borough area boasts a rich pub culture, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic London social life. Pubs like The Borough Bar and The Borough Beer Company are popular spots, each with its own unique atmosphere and selection of drinks. Whether you're looking for a traditional pint or a craft beer, you'll find something to suit your taste. TikTok

The Borough Beer Company, in particular, is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a rotating selection of local and international brews. It’s a great place to sample unique flavors and learn more about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff. These establishments often serve as community hubs, providing a warm and welcoming environment for locals and tourists alike. TikTok

Beyond the dedicated beer establishments, many traditional pubs in the area, such as The Old Borough Hotel (if it functions as a pub), offer a classic pub experience with a good selection of ales and lagers. They are perfect for a relaxing break after exploring the market or the surrounding historic streets. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2