Markets in London

I suppose a prerequisite for most economists is an interest in markets -- how they work, what they sell, prices, etc. There are so many markets in London that it would take an almost superhuman effort to try to go to all of them. Well, since I don't want to let any of you down, that is exactly what I will try to do. I'm sure I'll miss a few of the smaller ones, but here is my take on the ones I've seen so far.

This is the Borough Market, near London Bridge. Most likely due to my interest in good food, which is what the Borough Market is all about, this is hands down my favorite. There's a real buzz at this market, and it gets VERY crowded on Saturday. I tend to gravitate towards the gourmet cheeses from France, the large variety of outstanding, hearty bread, the artisanal dips and prepared foods, and the coffee served at Monmouth Coffee's booth (only a pound for a double macchiato!). I particularly like the Irish soda bread here, made with whole flour and on the dense side.

Shepherd's Bush Market near the Shepherd's Bush tube stop on the Hammersmith and City line. It has a little food, a bit of fabric, but mainly inexpensive clothing. I noticed few prices on things here, so I think bargaining is more the norm.






































Portobello Road Market has everything, and a LOT of it. It winds its way through parts of the Notting Hill area. You can either enter from around the Notting Hill tube stop and hit the antiques first, or start at Ladbroke Grove tube and work your way through the food vendors at the beginning. It's a lot of fun. The prices are a bit higher here as they tend to get a lot of tourists. Like Borough, this market can get quite crowded. If you like to look at old antique spoons, or antique anything, come here.





























Petticoat Lane Market near the Liverpool Street tube stop doesn't have the high end style that Borough or Portobello Road bring. Still, it's a great place to find inexpensive things, mainly clothing, at reasonable prices. It's a very old market and I read that the city has tried on numerous occasions to shut it down, but it stays alive. I love that fighting spirit!




























Brick Lane Market is not far from Petticoat Lane Market in London's East End. The day I went there wasn't much going on (it was very cold, too). I enjoyed walking around, however, because there is a strong Indian presence here, with rich smells of curry in the air.

Hasta la vista! Jaime