Broadway Market Review

by Caroline Cathcart

On a beautiful ‘summery’ Saturday in London there is no better place to be than wandering down Broadway Market.

Sandwiched between Regents Canal and London Fields, Broadway is one of London’s most exciting and culturally diverse markets.

With some 80 stalls lining the street selling an eclectic mix of goods from local farmers, world cuisines, artists and crafts people, Broadway is an amalgamation of the best of every London market but without the bustling crowds, hype or crazy prices.

The market has everything you could ever want, from fresh flowers, to rhubarb rose cupcakes, Portuguese roast hog to Caribbean curry, an entire stall devoted to selling old buttons and Ladybird books.

Inviting cake stalls line the streets selling the most gigantic eclairs in the world, where you will also find a varied vinyl record stall and an ever-growing vintage clothing section with the best sparkly-sequined jumper rail in London.

While you peruse all the beautiful stalls there is the ever-present double bass player, serenading passers-by from underneath a cherry blossom tree with his lively baritone covers of songs old and new.

The market is also home to some excellent bars, restaurants and cafés; The Gossip Café is a little hidden gem in the market, with free WiFi and more flavours of tea than you could ever imagine, all of which arrive in a little pot with a complementary custard cream.

Everyone loves a free biccy. Broadway is a lively, enchanting market with an unpretentious charm that makes it irresistible and the perfect way to spend your Saturday afternoon.

An absolute gem. Every Saturday 11am – 5pm Bethnal Green closest tube station (10 minutes to Liverpool St on the overground train) Broadway Market London Fields, E8 4QJ