London Market Named Oldest In Britain

London Borough Market has been awarded a commemorative plaque to celebrate 250 years of trading, after residents voted for it to be honoured.

Southwark Council says that records show goods have been traded in the area, on the south side of London Bridge, as far back as 1014 AD. The market is now held just south of Southwark Cathedral, and has been since the 18th century.

In 1755 Parliament closed the market down, but local residents managed to raise £6,000 and reopened it.

Donald Hyslop, chair of the trustees of Borough Market, said, “Borough Market is honoured to have been awarded this blue plaque voted for by the people of Southwark. Since the 13th century, the market has served London and continues to do so today, providing the city with a sustainable, independent, quality food market, rooted in the local community.”

Veronica Ward, Southwark’s cabinet member for culture, added, “Borough Market is not only part of the Borough’s long history but a famous landmark in London which sells produce of a very high quality and sets a high standard for food in London. It is wonderful that the market should be recognised in this way.”