The best markets in and around Elephant & Castle
Markets have long been a London tradition, and Elephant & Castle is no different. We've put together a list of some of the best markets in and around Elephant & Castle.
- 19 Feb 2022
The history of London markets supposedly stemmed from an ancient charter in the Middle Ages, to serve the city’s growing populations.
Now, these markets are well sought out by tourists and Londoners alike. We can also see this rich tradition informing what some of our more modern retail and food spaces look like. Here’s our breakdown of the best local Elephant and Castle markets.
42 Newington Causeway, SE1 6DR
Perhaps slightly different from the traditional London market, Mercato Metropolitano takes inspiration from the continent, where street food markets sell world fare from small, independent providers. Covering all the world’s best loved food, it’s a wonderful place to take family, meet friends, and socialise. There’s a healthy programme of events, live music at weekends, and of course plenty of worldly beverages to wash each dish down!
But on top of its success as a food market, Mercato Metropolitano has brought something different to Elephant and Castle’s markets. It’s now a sustainable community market too. This means it’s continually reinvesting time and money into local initiatives and is built on a sustainable economic model that ensures it’s socially responsible.
It's also looking after the environment. The on-site brewery and mill grind flour and make beer that’s used in their produce. They source local products where possible and place value on independent producers who are doing their bit for the planet.
Walworth Road, SE17 1EL
Locally known as The Lane or East Lane, East Street Market falls under the “general goods” category of London markets, meaning it’s a great place for vintage shopping if you’ve got a keen eye and a bit of patience! Here you’ll find second hand clothing, jewellery, confectionary, bric-a-brac as well as fresh produce.
As one of the oldest Elephant and Castle markets, its history dates back to the 16th century, although it’s traded in an official capacity since the year 1880.
The special thing about East Street Market is how it represents the local community. We are a vibrant place, home to people of all ethnicities. That’s what makes Southwark so creative and so entrepreneurial – and if you visit the market, you’ll understand!
14 Ash Avenue, SE17 1UB
Elephant Stores is Elephant Park’s newest retail offering, where we’ve brought together three much-loved local businesses. Not quite a market, but a sprawling open space filled with goodies from many small, Southwark-based businesses. That’s why we reckon it deserves its place amongst our round up of Elephant & Castle markets!
Little Louie is the younger sibling of Elephant and Castle’s beloved Louis Louis. This café/bar serves up excellent coffee and a well curated food menu by day, with coffee swapped for drinks, cocktails and HiFi music in the evening. A chic, but casual setting has already made this a firm favourite with the locals!
Fix Your Cycle is a well-known local business, particularly loved by keen cyclists. A repair shop, bicycle recycling centre and shop for all things bike related, it’s an enthusiast’s dream. The staff are also super knowledgeable, should you need some help or advice on cycling in London.
The final business you’ll find in Elephant Stores is SoLo Craft Fair – bringing unique products crafted and handmade by exceptional businesses that are local to Elephant Park. It also hosts creative workshops in the space and is furnished entirely with vintage furniture which is available to purchase through Vintage Matters.
Not only is Elephant Stores a celebration of Southwark – it’s operating in a more sustainable, planet-friendly manner. For more information about Elephant Stores, including opening times, you can find out here.
40 Elephant Road, SE17 1EU
Castle Square brings together some of Elephant & Castle’s familiar faces. Filled with unique, independent traders from the local area, Castle Square is truly a market in its own right.
Located 5 minutes from the tube station, step inside and you’ll find food and drink outlets, fashion, beauty, textiles, electricals, tailoring and so much more.