London is home to dozens of charming, bustling street food markets and food halls set up in converted warehouses and covered open-air spaces. These markets not only offer a huge variety of foods and drinks to try, but also showcase artisanal local products and allow patrons to converse with vendors face to face.
As you plan your trip to one of London’s street food markets, you’ll want to know where you can park nearby. Of course, if you’re visiting the city or exploring a new neighbourhood, parking is always a challenge. These food markets and halls have convenient parking options nearby, so you can get around easily - and maybe even bring some treats back home with you.
Importance of Convenient Parking
With limited space and high demand, parking can be hard to come by in any major city - and London is no different. When visiting a food market, having parking nearby can make your experience significantly more convenient, especially if you’re visiting from out of town or from across the city. Being able to park nearby (rather than walk a great distance) is also important for accessibility so that all members of the community can enjoy what the market has to offer. Street parking is often the most convenient and affordable option but can be hard to come by. Carparks provide more space and protection from the elements but are often the more expensive option.
Street Food Markets with Convenient Parking Options
With a little planning, you can find a safe and convenient spot to park your car while you explore the wonders of London’s food markets.
Borough Market
Borough Market is easily one of the city’s most famous and oldest food markets. As a result, it’s often jam-packed with tourists, but don’t let that deter you. After all, some things are popular for a reason, and Borough Market is worth the hype. Located in the London Bridge area and open to the public six days a week, Borough Market houses vendors offering all kinds of food products. From fresh produce and artisan baked goods to specialty cheeses and gourmet pickles, you could spend half a day exploring the many stalls and vendors. If all that exploration works up your appetite, you’ll be spoilt for choice among the street food options. You’ll find a wide variety of international cuisines and comforting classics like filled donuts and cheese toasties. Be sure to check out the parking options in the surrounding area, especially given this market’s popularity.
Spitalfields
Spitalfields Market is a fixture of East London and is located next to the also-popular Old Spitalfields Market. The market is open 7 days a week, and while there is no on-site parking, there’s plenty of parking just nearby. Spitalfields is truly a one-stop destination. In addition to food, Spitalfields Market offers local art, antiques, and designer fashions. You’ll have your choice of street food vendors, or more formal cafes, restaurants, and bars housed within the marketplace.
Brick Lane
Brick Lane Market, located in East London with ample parking, is actually a collective of different markets all in one central location. Brick Lane Market is home to Old Truman Brewery if you’re in the mood for a pint; and for vintage lovers, Brick Lane Market also holds a vintage market selling the most exquisite clothes and other items from years gone by. Different markets pop up at Brick Lane on different days during the week, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
Camden Market
Camden Market rivals anywhere else in London when it comes to street food offerings. With more than 1000 places to eat and shop, it is the city’s largest market, boasting street food delights from all over the world. Camden Market sells more than just food - you’ll also find vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Pre-book your parking at Sainsbury’s and spend the day exploring the shops and stalls.
Kingly Court
Kingly Court is a three-story food court located in Soho. Whether you’re in the mood for Peruvian ceviche, Syrian mezzes, Caribbean seafood, or NYC-inspired cocktails, Kingly Court has something for everyone. Parking is limited in the immediate vicinity of the pedestrian-friendly market, but you’ll have better luck on the surrounding streets.
Mercato Metropolitano
Mercato Metropolitano has multiple locations throughout London, but the original is in Elephant and Castle. Mercato Metropolitano is relatively new compared to other London food markets; it opened in 2016 and houses 33 food stalls plus a beer garden. In addition to offering practically every type of cuisine you can think of, plus wines and other goods, Mercato Metropolitano prides itself on being the first sustainable, community-focused market. Visitors can park nearby and enjoy community events and live entertainment.
Southbank Centre
Southbank Centre in Waterloo is home to street food from all over the world. A visit to this market is an opportunity to try some of the best products each country or region offers, from Portuguese pasteis to Japanese rice bowls. Art and culture lovers can park in Waterloo for the day and enjoy one of the area’s galleries or performances after exploring the market.
Tips for Parking Near Street Food Markets:
Naturally, London’s food markets are sure to draw a crowd, which can make parking tricky. With a bit of planning and some tips, you can make your street food excursion easy and convenient. You might consider planning your visit for a weekday when they might be less crowded. A rideshare app like Uber can also come in useful, allowing you to hitch a ride without having to worry about parking at all. Or, a parking app can help you scope out the area’s best parking spaces before you leave home, leaving nothing to chance.