Brick Lane

Brick Lane Overview

Brick Lane has been synonymous with the Bengali community for generations now, but more recently, it’s become a hotspot for the young and trendy. Bars and clubs have sprung up along with the growing music and fashion scenes in East London, and with it, a proliferation of stalls and markets to supply its trendy denizens with vintage and esoteric jewellery and chintz.

There are stalls and independent shops selling all manner of wares, from vintage purses and jewellery to antique furniture and stolen bikes. On a market day, walking up and down the street is a fun experience, being to fashion markets what Portobello and Borough are to antiques and food. Off the side streets are wonderful indie shops like Rough Trade East, and in the neighbourhood is the original All Saints Spitalfields, as well as some excellent eateries on Hanway Street – you’ll find excellent coffee, Thai food and fish and chips here, not to mention the curries and beigel bakes of the local Jewish community.

It’s also worth a look at some of the vintage markets housed in the old buildings. Most hawkers trying to get you into the sale are legit – you’ll find warehouses and lofts packed with antique and vintage clothing and furniture at bargain basement prices, and it’s very possible to pick up some real treasures here. As essential a market as any other in London.

Opening hours: The market operates on Sundays - the best time to visit would be from around 10:00 – 14:00

Nearest Tube: Liverpool Street.