Trendy weekend food market under railway arches in Bermondsey. Smaller and more local than Borough Market, featuring artisan producers, street food, and craft drinks.
Maltby Street Market is a weekend food market held under the railway arches of Maltby Street in Bermondsey, London SE1, a short walk from Tower Bridge Road and London Bridge. It grew out of a cluster of independent producers and traders who set up beside the railway viaduct, and it remains smaller, calmer and more local in character than nearby Borough Market. The cuisine is an eclectic mix of artisan food and street food, with stalls, small restaurants and bars operating from the arches.
The items most associated with the market include the bacon rolls from the St. John bakery arch, which are a morning favourite, and grilled jidori-style chicken served from a stall that draws steady queues. Other traders sell cheese toasties, fresh pasta, pastries, oysters, falafel, fermented foods, coffee and craft beer or natural wine. Because stalls change and some traders rotate, the offer varies from week to week and visitors should treat the signature dishes as indicative rather than guaranteed.
The atmosphere is relaxed and distinctly neighbourhood-oriented. The cobbled lane is lined with brick arches, string lights and communal standing areas, and diners often eat on crates, benches or while standing. Noise is moderate, with a lively buzz around the bar arches in the afternoon. There is no dress code, and the market is popular with locals, families and food-focused visitors in southeast London.
No reservations are needed for market stalls, and the experience is entirely walk-up. A few of the permanent arch restaurants nearby may take bookings, but visitors should verify this directly. The market is listed as open Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00, though some traders arrive later or close earlier, and Saturday is the busier of the two days. Prices are moderate, with most street food dishes costing a modest amount in pounds sterling and drinks priced as in London bars. Visitors can easily combine a visit with a walk along the Thames Path or to the nearby Bermondsey Beer Mile.
| Price | $-$$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Saturday-Sunday 09:00-17:00 |
| Reservations | Walk-up |
| Address | Maltby Street, London SE1 3PA |
Signature dishes
- St. John bacon rolls — $8
- Jidori chicken — $10
Location
Maltby Street, London SE1 3PA
51.4979, -0.0751 View on map
Highlights
- Railway-arch setting in Bermondsey, quieter than Borough Market
- Bacon rolls and other baked goods from the St. John arch
- Grilled chicken, oysters, cheese toasties and global street food
- Craft beer and natural wine bars within the arches
- Easy pairing with the Bermondsey Beer Mile
Tips for visiting
- Visit before 11:00 on Saturday to beat the largest crowds
- Try the bacon roll early, as popular items can sell out
- Bring a card, though some smaller traders may prefer contactless payment
- Sunday is generally calmer than Saturday
- Eat standing or on shared benches, as seating is limited
When to visit
Saturday morning for the fullest choice, or Sunday for a calmer visit; dry weather suits the open-air layout best.
Accessibility
The lane is cobbled and uneven in places, and the arches can be crowded, which may be difficult for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Quieter times on Sunday are easier to navigate.
Frequently asked questions
When is Maltby Street Market open?
It is listed as open on Saturday and Sunday, around 09:00 to 17:00. Opening times can vary by trader, so confirm before travelling.
How does it compare with Borough Market?
Maltby Street is smaller, less crowded and more neighbourhood-focused. It concentrates on artisan producers and street food in railway arches.
Are reservations needed?
No. Stalls operate on a walk-up basis, and seating is first come, first served.