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In the heart of Bermondsey, nestled amidst the vibrant streets and charming architecture of South London, lies a culinary haven that has captured the hearts of foodies and casual explorers alike – Maltby Street Market. This gem, tucked away in a network of railway arches, bursts with an irresistible blend of fresh produce, artisanal delights, and unique finds, and weaving a visit into your weekend is an absolute must!
Maltby Street Market
Maltby Street Market is one of the best food markets in London; there’s no doubt about that. We also rate it as one of the best niche markets in London to visit, like Portobello Road and Columbia Road Flower Market. It’s not the biggest, nor does it offer the broadest range of food, but something about the place keeps drawing us back. Given its location, just off the beaten tourist track, it attracts fewer crowds than its better-known competition, such as Camden Market or Borough Market, which we think adds to its appeal.
It’s possible to visit Maltby Street Market and not be met with a wall of people you are fighting to get through to find your next bit of grub. This is possibly because it’s not surrounded by other tourist hotspots, but trust us, it’s worth the short detour to visit. Not only is it quieter, but Maltby Street Market has the perfect pairing for beer lovers, given it’s on the opposite side of the railway arches to the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile. So, if you love a taste of craft beer – you’re in the right place!
A Brief History of Maltby Street Market
The central part of the market isn’t on Maltby Street; it’s on a little offshoot named Ropewalk, which runs parallel to the railway. You’ll notice the flag-lined Ropewalk just off the road, which gets its name from a nearby ropewalk owned by a notable Bermondsey eccentric, Robert Rich, in the eighteenth century.
The area around Maltby Street has historically been a hub of industrial activity, with a mix of housing, light industrial units, warehouses, and small manufacturers. It was also home to several tanneries and rope walks. The tanneries turned raw animal skins into leather, while the rope walks used hemp or other fibres to make ropes and cables. These industries were crucial to the development of London as a port city, and they helped shape the character of the area around Maltby Street, which is a little different from what you’ll find there these days!
What’s on Offer?
The market has a small footprint but diverse offerings. You’ll find all sorts, from the humble toastie to duck frites, steak, Ethiopian, Greek, Vietnamese, Latin fusion, burgers, crepes, gyoza, bakery items and more. It’s hard to keep up with what’s on offer, so you best head to the market to find the latest offerings or check out the Maltby Street Market website traders page ahead of your visit.
Despite the smaller range of food vendors, we’re sure you’ll find something to suit your tastebuds, including vegetarian and vegan options, plus a few spots for those of you with a sweet tooth!
It’s Not Just Food
There’s more to Maltby Street Market than just a food market. You’ll find coffee shops, bars, restaurants, florists, and homeware shops weaved into the railway arches running the length of the food market. The first time we visited, we stumbled upon Malt. It’s a live music venue where two tap dancers were on stage, adding the extraordinary to a beautifully atmospheric location and a must-visit spot along Ropewalk.
Many fixed residents of Ropewalk offer different opening hours to the market itself. See the Arches page to learn more about individual shops, what’s on offer and their opening hours.
The Bermondsey Beer Mile
The Bermondsey Beer Mile is not part of Maltby Street Market, but it deserves mention because a few tasty beers can be tied in nicely with the delicious food on offer at the market. Although the Beer Mile goes much further than the arches of Maltby Street Market, you’ll find some of the best breweries right by the market.
We recommend The Barrel Project on the opposite side of the railway arches and Hiver Taproom, on the same side of the railway arches, just on the other side of the road at the east end of the market.
Location & Practical Info
Below, you’ll find all the practical information you need to know about Maltby Street Market, such as its location, how to get there, opening times, website and Instagram profile (so you can check out all the delicious pics!).
Where is Maltby Street Market?
Maltby Street Market is in the Bermondsey area of London, about half a mile south of Tower Bridge. The market is straightforward to get to by bus or rail. Below, you’ll find the address, Google Maps link, and location to help you find your way. The nearest tube stations are London Bridge (to the west, 0.7 miles) and Bermondsey (to the east, 0.6 miles).
📍Arch 46, Ropewalk, Maltby St, London SE1 3PA
Maltby Street Market Hours
Unlike many of the larger food markets in London that are open most days, Maltby Street Market hours are only on weekends during the below hours. Disappointing news if you’re visiting London during the week.
🕙 Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm
Website & Instagram
Maltby Street Market FAQs
Is Maltby Street Market worth visiting?
Yes, it is. The market is considered one of the best food markets in London. It’s a great food market, just off the beaten tourist path, with much more on offer than just food.
Is Maltby Street Market open today?
The market is open Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. However, you’ll find permanent residents at Maltby Street who are open for longer hours and days than the food market.
What is the nearest tube station to Maltby Street Market?
The nearest tube stations are London Bridge and Bermondsey. London Bridge is approximately 0.7 miles from the market and served by the Jubilee and Northern lines, and Bermondsey is 0.6 miles away and served by the Jubilee line.
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