The History of Spitalfields Market
London is a city made of Boroughs, there are 30 boroughs in London, and to the West End, you will find a shopper’s paradise and the centre of food and art in London. Tower Hamlets is one of the boroughs where you will find the neighbourhoods of Shoreditch and Hoxton which are considered as the art hub of the city.
Young hipsters and trendsetters reside in this part of town, and food plays a vital role with the residents of Tower Hamlets and Hackney. It is for this reason that you can expect to find several farmers markets located in this area.
One of the oldest and most recognized markets in London is Spitalfields Market which was established in 1638. Charles gave a licence for meat, poultry and fresh produce to be sold in what was then known as Spittle Fields. The market currently receives around 25,000 visitors every week. Then there is Old Spitalfields Market which is over 350years old and dates make to 1876. Guests at Montcalm Shoreditch are treated to delicious cuisine using some of the fresh seasonal ingredients that can be found at the market stalls. In this article, we learn more about the history of Spitalfields Market and how it has evolved to the place we see today.
The area of Spitalfields
In the 17th century, Spitalfields Market was a field of nursery gardens which were later laid out into roads for Irish and Huguenot silk weavers. It got its name from an ancient hospital St Mary’s Spittel in 1197.
In ancient times the West End of London played host to new immigrants, and there was a long-standing spat between the east and the west part of London. Spitalfields was predominantly rural before the Great Fire that affected the city.
Formation of markets
By the late 1600s after the fire, traders began trading beyond the city walls — the site in which we see the market standing today. The success of the market encouraged the residents to settle in this area. By the 20th century, the Jewish community that was mostly found here had moved on, and the Bangladeshi community had moved in. This integration brought rise to a new culture, and the Brick lane restaurant district was bought to life. If you have the privilege of staying at a 5 Star Hotel Shoreditch, then speak to the concierge to arrange a guided tour of the area to get an insight of the Old Truman Brewery and the foundation of markets.
Today Spitalfields market consists of several variations, also bringing you unique changes of what the traders are selling. Visitors can explore Spitalfields Market, Old Spitalfields Market, New Spitalfields Market and several other markets within the area. Make sure to stop by one of the eateries in the area and grab a bite to eat, accompanied by a refreshing cocktail. To end off your experience head over to M by Montcalm spa for an ultimate relaxing experience where you can enjoy a relaxing foot massage.
