Borough Market

One of the brightest aspects of the regeneration of London’s South Bank is the renaissance of Borough Market.

Borough Market claims to have roots back in the Roman occupation of Britain and the foundation of Londinium, but the first credible record of a market on the site dates back to 1276. The market grew and prospered outside the influence of the City of London to the point where the City managed to get control of the market by royal charter from Edward VI in 1550, confirmed by Charles II in 1671. Unfortunately this generated so much traffic over London Bridge that the charter was repealed by an act of Parliament 1754.

The present market buildings were constructed in 1851, with additions through the 20th century.

The market continues to operate as a wholesale Fruit and Vegetable market each weekday morning, but the business is concluded by 8am.

When I worked near London Bridge in the 1980’s the site was deserted the rest of the time. This made it ideal for film locations, and both Bridget Jones Diary and Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels were filmed in the area.

In recent years the market has become known as a centre for top quality foods and artisan food shops, every weekend (Thursday through Saturday) the area becomes a bustling retail market and tourist destination.

COPYRIGHT Mark & Marianne Earthy www.earthyphotography.com

COPYRIGHT Mark & Marianne Earthy
www.earthyphotography.com

Sadly, the location of the market also means that it is on the route of the proposed Thameslink 2000 railway upgrade programme and while the upgrades will greatly improve the rail network, a number of well loved and historic buildings will be sacrificed within the development.