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Leadenhall is open Monday to Friday, 7am to 4pm (restaurants and bars open later). The market is closed or used for private functions at weekends. Entry is FREE.

Leadenhall Market is known for both its retail and its architecture. Visitors can shop for clothes, fresh food and wine, while gazing up at the fabulous glass roof and strolling the cobbled streets.

It all started with a small food market, in the area around Leadenhall Manor. This was back in the 14th century, and since then the market has grown and grown. It began to sell leather, wool and cutlery to its ever-growing crowd of customers. The Mayor of London recognised its importance, and commissioned the construction of both a chapel and a granary. By then there was no stopping it, and Leadenhall Market became one of the most popular in the city – one book published in the 19th century even described it as one of the sights of the metropolis.

By 1881, Leadenhall was firmly established as a London favourite, and was treated to an extensive makeover. The city's architect, Horace Jones – known for his previous works at Billingsgate and Smithsfield markets - designed the ornate wrought iron and glass structure which is still in place today.  The new market quickly proved to be just as popular, meriting yet another restoration one hundred years later in 1991, as the City of London wanted to make sure Jones' good work would be enjoyed for many more years, by locals and tourists alike.

These days, the market is less likely to be crowded with traders of meat and dairy, and more likely to be filled with hungry city workers on their lunch break. However, Leadenhall still keeps hold of that classic Victorian feel, with its loud, cheerful cafés, and its open-fronted stores selling traditional products like fish and cheese. The shops have a uniform burgundy look which helps keep the atmosphere nostalgic, rather than joining in with the familiar, branded high-streets. The result is a unique and beautiful market; a far cry from the more common English shopping centre.

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