Last Updated on July 17, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | 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, 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.
The best way to experience it? Join the London Bridge & Southwark Food Tour. This is a deep dive into the dishes—and history—that built London and is your shortcut to the best eats in London, curated by people who know the city inside out.
Don’t miss these 10 traditional foods you have to try in London while you’re exploring the area!
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.
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.
Here’s our 9 essential food markets in London if you want to explore more beyond Borough Market!
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.
On a budget trip? Here’s our best cheap eats in London!
Why A Tour Is the Ultimate London Binge
To uncover the real magic of Borough Market & Southwark—and the best eats in London hidden there—you need someone who knows its secrets.
With Devour, you don’t just taste London—you understand it. This curated Ultimate London Food Tour takes you beyond the obvious.
Savor British comfort food done right—from flaky sausage rolls to the best fish and chips in town. Step into 400-year-old pubs, wander through Borough Market’s hidden corners, and meet 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!
Featured Review: Ultimate London Food Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “George was so lovely, so informative, and made the tour incredibly personal. I would without a doubt book a tour with him/this company again!!”
– Jane
Best Eats in London FAQs
What is Borough Market famous for?
Borough Market is London’s oldest and most famous food market, with a history spanning nearly 1,000 years. Today, it’s known for its outstanding mix of artisan food producers, street food vendors, specialty shops, and restaurants, making it one of the city’s top destinations for food lovers.
What food should you try at Borough Market?
Borough Market is the perfect place to sample both British classics and international cuisine. Popular choices include artisan cheese, freshly shucked oysters, gourmet sausage rolls, handmade pasta, fish and chips, and globally inspired street food, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide variety of flavors in one visit.
Is Southwark a good neighborhood for food in London?
Yes! Southwark is one of London’s premier food destinations. Beyond Borough Market, the neighborhood is home to historic pubs, modern British restaurants, international cuisine, and innovative wine bars, making it an excellent place to explore London’s diverse culinary scene.
How much time should you spend at Borough Market?
Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring Borough Market if you want to browse the stalls, sample food, and enjoy a meal. Many visitors combine the market with a walk through Southwark and nearby attractions such as London Bridge, The Shard, and the River Thames.
When is the best time to visit Borough Market?
The best time to visit Borough Market is on a weekday morning or early afternoon, when crowds are generally smaller and it’s easier to browse the vendors. Arriving early also gives you the best selection of freshly baked goods, artisan products, and popular street food before the busiest lunch hours.
