Petticoat Lane Market - Sightseeing, Areas & Squares

Petticoat Lane Market

Middlesex Street, (and several adjacent streets), London, E1 7AA

As a street, Petticoat Lane no longer survives. It was renamed Middlesex Street in Victorian Times. The market was established in the 1700's, in an area where Jewish immigrants had settled. This is probably the most famous of all of London's street markets.

The market has a lively and vibrant atmosphere, and some tour operators even run excursions here on Sunday mornings. There are over a thousand stalls on a Sunday, 90 per cent of them selling clothes, which is how the market got its name, mainly new with some second hand garments to be found as well. Jewellery, accessories and other goods are also on sale. Care should be taken with wallets and handbags, as pickpockets are known to operate in the area.

The area around Middlesex Street is rather run down, having been neglected for a number of years, but a visit to Petticoat Lane should definitely be included in your itinerary, especially as this is also a good chance to see some real Cockney people. But don't expect them to look like Dick Van Dyke!

Nearby is Spitalfields Market. There has been a market on this spot since 1682, and until 1991 this was London's major fruit and vegetable market. The old market building is at its best on Sundays when it is alive with activities and market stalls. A number of the stalls sell organic produce, while others sell everything from toys and crafts, to old books. There are also snack bars where you can sample some organic vegetarian food.

Opening Days: Monday - Sunday
Opening Times: 10:30 - 14:30

Nearest Underground (Tube) Station: Liverpool Street & Aldgate