Visiting London’s Borough Market in Southwark is an immersive journey into the heart of culinary history. This incredible food market has been a bustling hub of gastronomic experiences for over a thousand years! Our food tour, booked through Devour Tours, was the perfect way to spend a morning. Why are Devour Food Tours so great?? Their guides have consistently been EXPERTS in the local history of where we are at, what we are eating, and why it is significant. Devour Tours are global…Book one, you’ll be hooked like we are!

As you wander through the cobblestone pathways of Borough Market, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and enticing aromas. You’ll see everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, local desserts, freshly baked bread and fresh seafood. The market offers a treasure trove of culinary gems from all over the world. One of the most enchanting aspects of Borough Market is the opportunity to engage with the passionate producers and artisans behind each stall. They eagerly share their knowledge and expertise, offering samples of their finest creations. We encourage trying everything!! Nate and I sampled some cheese and walked away with a wedge of something absolutely delicious for later (along with a nice bottle of red…the perfect way to end a day of constant walking and sightseeing). Whether it’s learning about the intricate process of cheese making or learning how to cook up a massive monster fish (see picture below…yikes), every conversation is a memorable one!

From succulent oysters and shellfish (and I swear, they were serving sea anemones) to decadent burgers and delightful pastries, there’s something to satisfy your salty cravings and sweet tooth. When we stopped for oysters, we were told that oysters used to be the cheapest food available. They were considered food for the poor as they were so inexpensive and the bay was full of them. An interesting shift in today’s environment where oysters are very expensive and considered a delicacy. When Nate and I traveled to Portland, Maine, our goal was to only eat lobster (rolls) and oysters. The oysters were more than the lobster!

A Little History…For The History Lovers!

The history of London’s Borough Market is rich and storied. Its origins can be traced back to at least the 12th century, making it one of the oldest food markets in London, if not the entire United Kingdom. Our Devour tour guide did an excellent job storytelling at multiple locations around the market, including a stop at the REAL London Bridge (no, it’s not the bridge that Fergie dances in front of in her music video for London Bridge….).

The market’s location, near the southern end of London Bridge, made it an ideal trading hub for merchants and farmers from surrounding counties. Initially, it served primarily as a wholesale market for traders to buy and sell livestock, grain, and other agricultural products. Over time, its importance grew, and it became a vital part of London’s economy and culinary landscape. In 1756, Borough Market was officially chartered by King George II, granting it legal recognition and further solidifying its status as a prominent market in London. Over hundreds of years, it was THE place to provide fruits, vegetables, meats, and everything else for Londoners.

Over the last few decades, Borough Market has experienced a renaissance, emerging as a vibrant culinary destination and a focal point of London’s food scene. It has attracted a new generation of artisanal producers, specialty food vendors, and food enthusiasts (like us!), drawn to its foodie environment and wide variety of offerings. It is also a place full of energy and really really REALLY great smells…even you just walk around and see everything, but don’t eat, it’s worth going.

Today, Borough Market offers just about everything you can imagine. Visiting Borough Market is not just a culinary adventure, but, they say, a journey into the soul of London itself. Take a moment to soak up the outlaying historic churches and buildings…some very interesting history there and our guide had all the details. Churches, brothels, and dungeons…not to mention excavations that uprooted skeletons and evidence of the infamous plague!

On a more positive note, there are also unique wall murals that are Instagram worthy (or kiss-worthy ). I would describe Borough Market as vibrant, brightly colored, fragrant, captivating, and food-fascinating! It is a must-see on your next trip to London. You will not be disappointed.

We highly recommend the Devour food tour through Borough Market! Devour tours are outstanding and worth every penny. And, you meet some great people who love food as much as you do…

We hope you have a delicious experience somewhere incredible…
Heather & Nate

#FoodiesUnite