London is a city bursting with culture, history, and diversity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its bustling markets. Among them, Brick Lane Market stands out as a vibrant hub for vintage lovers, foodies, and curious explorers. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind fashion pieces, sampling gourmet street food, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Brick Lane Market offers an experience like no other.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market is the crown jewel of this area. As you step inside, you’re instantly transported to a world where fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s reigns supreme. It’s a labyrinth of stalls filled with retro clothing, accessories, and quirky items you won’t find anywhere else.
What You’ll Find:
- Clothing: From flapper dresses to 80s power suits, there’s something for every vintage enthusiast.
- Accessories: Handbags, shoes, sunglasses, and more—each with a unique story to tell.
- Vinyl Records: Music lovers can browse through classic albums from all genres.
- Jewelry: Unique, handcrafted pieces that add a special touch to any outfit.
The friendly vendors are passionate about vintage fashion and are always eager to share stories behind their collections. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation—you might discover the history of that 70s leather jacket you’ve been eyeing!
Hidden Gems: The Backyard Market on Brick Lane
A short walk from the main market area will lead you to the Backyard Market. This lesser-known spot is a treasure trove for artisans and crafters, offering handmade goods that are as unique as they are beautiful. It’s an ideal place to pick up gifts or treat yourself to something special.
Highlights of the Backyard Market:
- Handmade Jewelry: Crafted by local artisans, each piece is one-of-a-kind.
- Art and Prints: Discover original works by up-and-coming artists.
- Home Decor: Vintage-style lamps, handcrafted ceramics, and more to add character to your space.
- Street Food: Savor international flavors from the various food stalls that line the market.
A Foodie’s Paradise: Vintage Market Brick Lane London
No visit to Brick Lane is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The Vintage Market Brick Lane London is surrounded by food stalls and restaurants catering to every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional British fare or something more exotic, you’ll find it here.
Must-Try Foods:
- Beigels: The famous Brick Lane beigel shops are a must-visit, especially for their salt beef beigels.
- Curry: Known as the curry capital of London, Brick Lane is home to numerous restaurants offering delicious Indian cuisine.
- Street Food: From vegan delights to Asian fusion, the street food scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
Brick Lane Market
Address: Brick Lane, London, E1 5HA
Phone: +44 (0)20 7364 1717
Public transport: Tube: Aldgate East
Opening Times
Sunday market: 10am to 6pm
How to get there
-
Shoreditch High St • 5 min walk
-
Aldgate East • 9 min walk
Rating
4.5 based on 351 reviews on TripAdvisor
Interactive Table: Brick Lane Market Overview
| Market Area | Highlights | Best For | Food Options | Average Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brick Lane Vintage Market | Retro clothing, accessories, vinyl records, jewelry | Vintage enthusiasts | Nearby street food stalls | 4.2/5 (300+ reviews) |
| Backyard Market | Handmade goods, art, prints, home decor, street food | Art lovers, crafters | Diverse international street food | 4.4/5 (200+ reviews) |
| Brick Lane Food Market | Beigels, curry, vegan options, Asian fusion | Foodies, casual visitors | Numerous local food vendors | 4.6/5 (1k+ reviews) |
Best nearby: My Favorite Shops at Brick Lane Market
When you visit Brick Lane Market, it’s easy to get lost in the sheer variety of stalls and shops. After several visits, I’ve found a few standout spots that are worth checking out, each offering something unique. Here’s a personal guide to some of my favorite shops at Brick Lane Market:
1. House of Vintage
If you’re a fan of classic fashion, House of Vintage is an absolute must-visit. This shop is a treasure trove of carefully curated vintage clothing, ranging from 1920s flapper dresses to 1970s denim jackets. Every piece is handpicked, ensuring that you’re getting something truly special.
- Why I Love It: The quality here is top-notch, and I’ve found some incredible pieces that have become staples in my wardrobe. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about vintage fashion, always ready to share the history of the garments.
- Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask about the story behind a piece—sometimes, you’ll learn fascinating tidbits about its previous life!
2. Rokit Vintage
Another gem in the Brick Lane vintage scene is Rokit Vintage. This shop is perfect for those who want to mix and match different eras to create a unique style. From band tees to military jackets, Rokit offers a wide array of items that cater to various fashion tastes.
- Why I Love It: Rokit has a great mix of affordable vintage and more premium items, making it accessible for all budgets. I’ve scored some amazing deals on high-quality clothing that I couldn’t find anywhere else.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for their sales—Rokit often has discounts that make their already reasonable prices even better!
3. Hunky Dory Vintage
Hunky Dory Vintage is one of those places that feels like you’ve stepped into a time machine. Specializing in 1960s and 70s fashion, this shop is full of psychedelic prints, bold colors, and unique accessories that make a statement.
- Why I Love It: The selection here is so well-curated that it’s impossible to leave empty-handed. I once found a stunning paisley dress that has become a go-to for special occasions.
- Pro Tip: If you’re looking for something specific, let the staff know—they’re incredibly helpful and might just pull out the perfect piece from the back.
4. Beyond Retro
Beyond Retro is a staple in the London vintage scene, and their Brick Lane location is one of the best. The shop is enormous, with a vast selection of clothing and accessories from every decade. Whether you’re looking for a vintage leather jacket or a retro sports jersey, you’ll likely find it here.
- Why I Love It: The sheer variety at Beyond Retro is unmatched. It’s my go-to when I want to spend a few hours browsing through racks of vintage treasures. Plus, their in-house alterations service ensures that you can get the perfect fit.
- Pro Tip: Don’t miss the bargain section—sometimes, you can find incredible items at a fraction of the price.
5. The Tea Rooms
After a few hours of shopping, I always make a stop at The Tea Rooms to relax and recharge. Located within the market, this charming spot offers a variety of teas, homemade cakes, and vintage teacups and saucers for sale. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of shopping.
- Why I Love It: The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a great place to sit down and enjoy a cuppa. I’ve also picked up some beautiful vintage china that’s now a part of my home collection.
- Pro Tip: Try the Victoria sponge cake—it’s a classic and pairs perfectly with their English Breakfast tea.
Brick Lane Market is a must-visit for anyone who loves vintage shopping, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the Brick Lane Vintage Market, uncovering handmade treasures at the Backyard Market, or indulging in the area’s famous culinary delights, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t miss out on one of London’s most iconic market experiences!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Brick Lane Market
When is the best time to visit Brick Lane Market?
Sundays are the busiest and offer the full market experience, with all the vintage stalls, street food vendors, and artists out in full force. If you enjoy a bustling atmosphere and want to see everything the market has to offer, Sunday is the day to go. However, be prepared for large crowds, especially in the afternoon.
- Tip: Arrive early on a Sunday (around 10 AM) to beat the crowds and have first pick of the best vintage items.
- Alternative: If you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience, visit on a Saturday or weekday. While not all vendors may be present, you’ll have more space to browse and can often engage in longer conversations with the stallholders.
Is the Brick Lane Vintage Market suitable for families?
Absolutely! Brick Lane Market is a family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Children will love the vibrant colors, street performers, and the chance to explore unique items. The food options are diverse, catering to all tastes, making it easy to find something for even the pickiest eaters.
- Many families enjoy grabbing a snack at one of the street food stalls and then wandering through the vintage clothing and art stalls. The market’s lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a fun and educational outing for kids.
- Recommendation: Consider bringing a stroller if you have young children, but keep in mind that it might be challenging to navigate through the crowds on Sundays.
Can I haggle at the Brick Lane Market?
Yes, haggling is a common practice at Brick Lane Market, especially at the vintage stalls. Most vendors are open to negotiation, particularly if you’re buying multiple items or making a large purchase.
- Tip: Start with a polite inquiry like, “Is there any flexibility on the price?” and gauge the seller’s response. Be respectful, and remember that a smile and friendly conversation can go a long way in securing a better deal.
- Example: I once found a vintage leather jacket at Brick Lane Market priced at £80. After a friendly chat with the vendor and showing genuine interest, I was able to negotiate it down to £65, which both the seller and I were happy with.
Are there vegan food options at Brick Lane?
Yes, Brick Lane is very vegan-friendly, with numerous stalls and restaurants offering delicious plant-based options. From vegan curry to dairy-free desserts, there’s no shortage of choices.
- Be sure to check out Mooshies London, a vegan burger joint located on Brick Lane that’s famous for its mouthwatering plant-based burgers. Another great spot is Crosstown Doughnuts, which offers a variety of vegan doughnuts that are perfect for a sweet treat.
- Recommendation: If you’re visiting on a Sunday, try the Vegan Street Food Market just off Brick Lane. It’s a dedicated area with vendors specializing in vegan cuisine, offering everything from falafel wraps to vegan ice cream.
How do I get to Brick Lane Market?
Brick Lane Market is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest stations are Shoreditch High Street (Overground) and Aldgate East (Underground). Both stations are a short walk from the market.
- Tip: If you’re visiting from central London, the easiest way is to take the Central Line to Liverpool Street and then walk for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, taking the Overground to Shoreditch High Street places you right at the market’s doorstep.
- Recommendation: If you’re driving, be aware that parking in the area is limited and can be expensive. It’s best to use public transport or a ride-sharing service to avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot.
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