Exmouth Market: This lesser-known London market is a real hidden gem

Tucked between the historic heart of Clerkenwell and the buzzing edges of Farringdon, Exmouth Market is one of those hidden gems that locals adore and savvy visitors stumble upon – then pretend they’ve known about for years.

With its blend of old-school charm, independent shops, and sizzling street food, it’s the kind of place that turns a casual wander into a full-blown afternoon out.

Before it became the go-to spot for gourmet falafel and handmade jewellery, Exmouth Market had rather humbler roots. It’s been a trading hub since the 1890s, when it was known more for market traders hawking fish, fruit, and flowers than flat whites and craft beer.

The area was once home to the New Spa Fields, where Londoners would take the waters (yes, really) in the belief that the local springs had healing powers. Fast forward a century or two, and the only thing being healed today is the post-office lunch slump – and trust us, this market does that in style.

These days, Exmouth Market is a weekday treat. The market runs Monday to Friday, from around 11am to 6pm, and while it’s not huge, it packs a serious punch.

Think sizzling jerk chicken, steaming bao buns, Korean rice bowls, fresh pasta, and some of the best brownies this side of the Thames. It’s a lunchtime paradise for local office workers and a culinary playground for anyone who just really likes good food.

The vibe? Relaxed but lively. You’ll find stallholders chatting with regulars, queues forming at the most popular spots, and the occasional busker providing a soundtrack to your gourmet grab-and-go.

When the sun’s out, the whole street sparkles – think al fresco tables spilling onto the pavement, laughter in the air, and the smell of something delicious around every corner.

Food might be the main draw, but Exmouth Market has more than just tempting street eats. The street is lined with a carefully curated mix of independent shops, cafes, and boutiques.

There’s a charming bookshop or two, stylish lifestyle stores, and even a few spots to get a tattoo if you’re feeling impulsive. Whether you're hunting for a unique gift or just fancy browsing with a coffee in hand, this place delivers.

Come evening, many of the permanent restaurants and bars kick into gear – from rustic Italian spots to modern wine bars that know their way around a charcuterie board.

Exmouth Market is one of those rare places that manages to feel local and cosmopolitan all at once. It’s small enough to wander in 20 minutes, but tempting enough to linger for hours. Whether you're after a legendary lunch, a bit of boutique browsing, or just a lovely street to soak up some London charm, it’s well worth a detour.

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