Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by Maika Cotton | Published: August 8, 2025
Craving more than just a good meal in London? Sure, you could scroll endlessly through review sites or stumble into a tourist trap with decent fish and chips. But if you really want to devour the city—its flavors, its characters, and the stories simmering behind every bite—start at the source: Borough Market and Southwark. If you’re hunting for the best eats in London, this is exactly where you’ll want to begin your adventure.
And the best way to experience it? Join the London Bridge & Southwark Food Tour. This isn’t a walk-and-nibble. It’s a deep dive into the dishes—and history—that built London. The tour is your shortcut to the best eats in London, curated by people who know the city inside out.
Where History Meets Food
Before you get to the food (don’t worry, it’s coming), let’s talk about where you’ll walk. Southwark is one of London’s oldest neighborhoods, and its story is anything but bland. Think medieval breweries, riverside theatres, and lively taverns once frequented by the likes of Shakespeare, Dickens, and Chaucer.
This area was London’s original place for revelry—a little rough around the edges, sure, but full of life, character, and incredible food. At the heart of it all sits Borough Market, one of the oldest and most iconic food markets in the world. Its origins trace back over 1,000 years, with official records dating to 1276. People traded food here long before that.
Today, it’s a bustling paradise for food lovers. To uncover its real magic—and the best eats in London hidden within its stalls—you need someone who knows its secrets.
Borough Market: A Thousand Years of Taste
Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most beloved food markets, with roots dating back to at least the 11th century. Originally a wholesale market feeding the city, it evolved over the centuries into a vibrant hub for artisan traders, farmers, and chefs. Nestled beneath railway arches by London Bridge, it’s a place where old-world charm meets modern culinary flair. Its resilience through wars, fires, and modern redevelopment is a testament to how deeply it’s woven into the fabric of London life.
Leadenhall Market: Where History Meets Hogwarts
Dating back to Roman London, Leadenhall Market has long been a center of commerce—from meat and poultry trading in the Middle Ages to its current status as one of the city’s most picturesque shopping arcades. The current Victorian structure, with its ornate ironwork and glass roof, was redesigned in 1881 and remains a stunning example of period architecture. It’s also gained fame as a filming location for the Harry Potter films, adding a layer of magic to its already storied past.
Southwark’s Streets: London’s Original Playground
Before the West End became London’s entertainment district, Southwark was where the city came to play. These gritty, bustling streets were home to taverns, theatres, and brothels in Shakespeare’s time—outside the jurisdiction of the City’s strict rules. The area’s layered past includes Roman roads, medieval inns, and even the site of England’s oldest prison. Today, the charm lingers in the cobbled lanes, historic pubs, and riverside paths that echo with centuries of stories.
Why A Tour Is the Ultimate London Binge
With Devour, you don’t just taste London—you understand it.
This curated Ultimate London food tour takes you beyond the obvious. Yes, you’ll try incredible British comfort food. You’ll also hear the stories of the people behind the flavors: the artisan cheesemonger who knows every dairy in the country, the baker whose sourdough starter is older than some marriages, the pub that’s stood for centuries.
On the Tour, You’ll:
- Savor British comfort food done right—from flaky sausage rolls to the best fish and chips in town.
- Step into 400-year-old pubs where the beer is local and the walls whisper Shakespearean secrets.
- Wander through Borough Market’s hidden corners with behind-the-scenes stories from your guide.
- Meet the makers—the passionate people redefining London’s culinary scene.
- Wrap it all up with sticky toffee pudding so rich it might ruin dessert for you forever.
This isn’t a checklist tour. It’s a love letter to London—served one bite at a time, and a showcase of the true best eats in London.
What Makes Devour Tours Different?
Moreover, in a city this big, it’s easy to feel like just another tourist with a fork. Devour flips the script.
Your guide? A local expert who lives and breathes London’s food scene.
The stops? Handpicked for quality, character, and connection.
The vibe? Personal, immersive, unforgettable.
By the end, you’ll feel less like a visitor and more like a local who knows where the real flavors—and the best eats in London—live.
FAQs
What kind of food will I try?
A mouthwatering mix of British classics: sausage rolls, fish and chips, artisan cheeses, market bites, craft brews, and an unforgettable dessert—all selected from the best eats in London.
Is this suitable for vegetarians/gluten-free guests?
Yes! Just let us know in advance and we’ll accommodate your needs.
How much walking is involved?
The tour goes at a relaxed pace with plenty of stops to eat, sip, and enjoy. Wear comfy shoes and bring your appetite.
Can I bring my kids?
Absolutely, Food is a family affair—and kids love the tour just as much as adults.
Ready to discover the best eats in London? Book your spoton the Ultimate London Food Tour and taste the city’s real flavor!
