Gluten Free Borough Market Food Tour
A gluten free Borough market food tour is something we’re really proud to have created here at London Bites. We had been asked by a few clients to come up with a route that still contains all of the great stories and historical relevance that Borough market has. The catch was that the food had to all be gluten free. No problem.
What is Gluten Free
Gluten is essentially a protein that you find in wheat, barley, rye and triticale. Over the years as medical science has evolved we’ve started to learn more about the negative side effects gluten has on the body. Some people are more affected by these than others. Caliac disease is a common condition which affects our immune system. This can be controlled by following a gluten free diet.
Gluten Free Diet
A lot of what we already eat is gluten free so you might be suprised to know that following a gluten free diet is not too difficult. Fruits, vegetables, beans, eggs, non processed meats and fish are alll good for the gluten free diet. It’s wheat, rye, barley, triticale and some oats that yo need to avoid but you start to realise that these things are in quite a lot of our favourite foods.
Our Borough Market Food Tours
We’ve been running our popular Borough market food tour for years now. Over a 3 hour period we take our food tour guests around the market visiting some of the best street food vendors in London. We stop off at famous businesses like the Ginger Pig for their much loved sausage roll, Fish for some of the capital’s best fish and chips and many more places. “But wait !!” I hear you cry, “none of this is gluten free.”
Creating a Gluten Free Borough Market Tour
Over the years we’ve been getting more and more requests for a purely gluten free Borough market tour, So our team of guides got to work and over a period of a few weeks we have put togehter a completely gluten free Borough market experience.
We visit some amazing vendors and try dishes that represent the different communities and stories of London. And all gluten free.
We’ve had to seperate this tour from our normal Borough market tour as we go to completely different traders and even walk a different route.
The tour is still full of all of the amazing stories of the market and the surrounding area. We walk through old film sets, past haunted pubs and around one of the most interesting neighbourhoods of London. And all the time we’re enjoying some of the most delicious gluten free street food in London.
Gluten Free Food in Borough market
Here’s a quick look at some of the vendors we visit on the tour.
Horn OK Please!
If only for the name of the business this is one of our favourite stalls in Borough market. The names comes from a slogan that you’ll find on the back of vehicles in India. Owners Gaurav and Sandhya specialise in home cooked Indian vegetarian food and have a plethora of gluten free options. We love their Dosa Chaat which is filled with masala potatoes, onion chutney and spices.
Khanom Krok
This Thai street food stall is a must try when you come to Borough market. The name translates to coconut pancakes and these are what we try on the food tour. They are absolutely delicious and come from the recepie of the owners grandmother. Coconut batter is poured from an old kettle into a piping hot brass pan with small pancakce grooves. Watching the dish being made is almost (but not quite) as good as eating it itself.
La Pepia
If you’ve ever been to Colombia or Venezuela then you’ll know how important arepas are to the food culture. These corn flour pancakes are often filled with meats or cheeses and are eaten on the go all over those countries. Gradually the humble arepa is making it’s name on UK street food. La Pepia are the fist Venezualan street food business in Borough market and their arepas are fantastic. The gluten free answer to bread La Pepia is a really popular stop on our Gluten free borough market food tour.
These are just some of the amazing gluten free vendors we visit on the food tour. To reserve your spot on your private experience simply book a private Borough market tour here and let us know you want the gluten free expereince.
How to explore gluten free Borough market.
If there’s one thing we know it’s that Borough market can be a crazy place to explore. It’s a must see on any food lovers itinerary in London. The best way to make sure you see and taste it all is to book your place on our Borough market food tour.
To do a gluten free tour all you need to do is book the private option and let us know that you want us to host you on our gluten free tour.
Leave the rest to us.
We’ll pre-arrange some of the best gluten free bites in Borough just for you. No need to worry about queuing or missing anything. We’ve got it all covered.
We’ll show you the hidden alleyways of the market and introduce you to some of our favourite food vendors. Full of fascinating stories, delicious food and lots of fun along the way. We can’t wait to show you around.
To find out all about London Bites food tour and what we do take a look here.
The River Thames
The River Thames, a timeless symbol of Britain, flows serenely through the heart of London and beyond, weaving a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stretching over 215 miles, it is the longest river in England and has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s narrative. From ancient times to the modern era, the Thames has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, inspired countless artists, and continues to be a vital artery for commerce and leisure. It is also the backdrop for our Borough market food tour when we meet on London bridge.
Ancient Beginnings
The Thames has been a crucial part of British history since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that humans have settled along its banks for thousands of years, with evidence of Neolithic tools and Bronze Age artifacts. The river provided a natural highway for early settlers, facilitating trade and communication.
When the Romans invaded Britain in AD 43, they recognized the strategic importance of the Thames. They established Londinium (modern-day London) along its banks, constructing bridges, ports, and roads that transformed the river into a bustling hub of commerce and military activity. On our Borough market food tour we meet at London bridge. There has been a bridge here since Roman times which is why we have the market where it is.
Medieval and Renaissance Eras
Throughout the Middle Ages, the Thames continued to be a lifeline for the city. It was central to the growth of trade guilds and the establishment of markets, such as Billingsgate Fish Market. During the Renaissance, the river was lined with grand palaces and estates, including the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace, showcasing the wealth and power of the monarchy and nobility.
Literary Influences
The river Thames has been a muse for countless writers and poets. It features prominently in the works of William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and T.S. Eliot, among others. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre was located near the Thames, and many of his plays, including “The Tempest” and “Twelfth Night,” reference the river. Dickens’ novels, such as “Great Expectations” and “Our Mutual Friend,” vividly depict the Thames as a symbol of both opportunity and peril.
Artistic Expression
Artists have long been captivated by the Thames’ ever-changing moods and landscapes. The river has been immortalized in the works of J.M.W. Turner, Claude Monet, and James Whistler. Turner’s atmospheric paintings, in particular, capture the ethereal beauty of the Thames, while Monet’s series of views of the Houses of Parliament reflect the interplay of light and water.
Modern-Day Thames
Today, the Thames is flanked by some of London’s most iconic landmarks. The Tower Bridge, completed in 1894, remains a quintessential symbol of the city. The London Eye offers panoramic views of the river and the cityscape. Modern developments like the Shard and the Tate Modern art gallery sit harmoniously alongside historic sites, creating a dynamic urban landscape.
Leisure and Tourism
The Thames is a magnet for tourists and locals alike, offering a plethora of recreational activities. River cruises provide a unique perspective on London’s landmarks, while the Thames Path, a long-distance walking trail, invites explorers to discover the river’s natural and urban beauty. Rowing and sailing are popular sports, with annual events such as the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race drawing large crowds.
Environmental Initiatives
In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to improve the ecological health of the Thames. Once heavily polluted, the river is now home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and over 125 species of fish. Organizations like the Thames Estuary Partnership and the Zoological Society of London work tirelessly to monitor and protect the river’s ecosystem.
The Thames Beyond London
While the Thames is often associated with London, its influence extends far beyond the capital. The river flows through picturesque towns and cities like Oxford, Windsor, and Henley-on-Thames, each with its unique charm and historical significance. These areas offer serene landscapes, historic sites, and cultural festivals, making the Thames a continuous thread in the fabric of England.
How to explore London like a local
If you’d like to really get under the skin of London why not join one of our small group food tours. We run tours in the East end and Borough market throughout the week. Focusing on supporting independent food and drink businesses, our tours are full of history, fun facts and fascinating anecdotes. You can see more here; https://londonbitestours.com/london-food-tours/
London’s best street food stalls.
We have one of the best jobs in the world here at London Bites. We don’t just run food tours but we also need to go and test out as many different food stalls as we can in order to make sure all of the tours visit the best places possible.
There’s thousands of amazing street food vendors in London and we keep finding new and different flavours.
Here, we explore some of the best street food stalls in the city that promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Borough Market: The Heart of Food Lovers
Borough Market, located near London Bridge, is a historic market that has become a haven for food enthusiasts. Among its many stalls, Kappacasein Dairy stands out with its legendary cheese toasties. Made with Montgomery cheddar, onions, and leeks, these toasties are grilled to perfection, resulting in a gooey, crispy delight that is simply irresistible. There’s always a big queue though so prepare yourself.
Another must-visit at Borough Market is Portena. We visit here on our food tour and it’s a really popular stop. They make fresh empanadas daily in their small stall on Stoney street. Classic fillings like ham and cheese or tomatoe and beef go really well with a cold beer on a summers day.
Maltby Street Market: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a smaller, more intimate market compared to Borough Market, but it packs a punch with its eclectic food offerings. Mooncheese toasties is a standout here, serving up some of the best grilled cheese sandwiches in London. Using locally sourced cheeses, their sandwiches are gooey, cheesy, and utterly delicious.
Once you’ve had your lunch you can then enjoy an afternoon on the Bermondsey beer mile.
Brick Lane: A Flavor Explosion
Brick Lane is famous for its vibrant street art, bustling markets, and a plethora of food stalls offering flavors from around the world. Beigel Bake, a 24-hour bakery, is an institution in itself. Known for its salt beef bagels, this iconic spot serves up soft, chewy bagels stuffed with tender salt beef, mustard, and pickles. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Brick Lane. It isn’t a street food stall but you can’t really come to Brick lane without paying a visit here.
Southbank Centre Food Market: Riverside Delights
The Southbank Centre Food Market, located along the River Thames, is a bustling hub of food stalls offering an array of international cuisines. The Frenchie is a popular stall here, known for its gourmet duck confit burgers. Served with truffle mayonnaise, melted cheese, and rocket in a brioche bun, these burgers are a decadent treat that should not be missed.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head over Choco fruit. It’s actually a bit healthy as there’s plenty of fruit which is then drizzled with the most delicious belgian melted chocolate.
Camden Market: A Street Food Paradise
Camden Market is a street food paradise, offering a wide variety of food from different cultures. Three Uncles is definitely worth a visit. Cantonese roasted meats. think Charsiew pork, roasted pork belly and duck. It’s really popular but the queue does move quick.
Another good spot is Tropidog which knocks out amazing gourmet hotdogs. Great to eat as you wander around the market.
London’s street food scene is a reflection of its rich cultural diversity, offering a myriad of flavors and culinary experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these street food stalls is a gastronomic adventure that will introduce you to some of the best bites the city has to offer. From the historic Borough Market to the eclectic Camden Market, each stall offers something unique and delicious. We could write millions of blogs like this and hardly even touch the sides. There’s so much great food to discover. So, grab your appetite and embark on a street food journey through London that you won’t soon forget.
We run daily food tours in London. Each tour explores either Borough market or the East End. We try some amazing dishes from our local vendors on the tour supporting the local food and drink community.
You can find out more here.
Christmas in London
Christmas in London has always been a special time, especially in the East End.
The area is well known for that tightknit community feel and no season shows this more than Christmas.
Famous for it’s Dickensian cobbled streets the area takes on a character of its own at this time of year.
Here we take a look at what Christmas was like in Victorian times here in the East End.
In the 19th century, London embraced the Christmas season with a blend of nostalgia, elaborate decorations, and heartwarming traditions that have left an indelible mark on the way we celebrate Christmas today.
Carol Singing
In Victorian London, the air on Christmas Eve was filled with the harmonious voices of carol singers. Groups would traverse cobblestone streets, spreading holiday cheer with timeless carols like “Silent Night” and “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.” The tradition of caroling was not only a form of entertainment but also a way to foster a sense of community and unity during the festive season.
Christmas decorations by gaslight
Though Christmas trees had been introduced to England by Queen Victoria’s German husband, Prince Albert, it was during the Victorian era that they became a popular feature in London households. Streets were adorned with festive greenery, and shop windows were meticulously decorated to create a magical atmosphere. The soft glow of gas lamps added an ethereal quality to the city, casting a warm light on the snowy streets and contributing to the enchanting ambiance.
Christmas food and drink
Christmas feasting in Victorian London was a lavish affair. Families would gather around tables laden with roast meats, mince pies, and plum puddings. The aroma of spices, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine wafted through the air, creating a sensory delight. Wassailing, a traditional practice of toasting to the health and prosperity of the household, was a common occurrence, bringing together friends and family in shared celebration.
Christmas Gifting
The Victorian era witnessed the popularization of gift-giving as a central Christmas tradition. Exchanging handmade gifts and small tokens of affection became customary. However, the spirit of Christmas extended beyond personal exchanges, as Victorians embraced charitable acts during the festive season. Inspired by the charitable themes in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” many Londoners took this time to support local causes and extend a helping hand to those less fortunate.
Pantomimes
Theaters in Victorian London flourished during the Christmas season, offering a variety of festive performances. One of the most enduring traditions was the Christmas pantomime – a lively and often humorous stage show that blended fairy tales, music, and audience participation. The pantomime became a cherished part of the holiday experience, providing entertainment for families and adding a touch of whimsy to the Christmas celebrations. If you have never been to one we would higjly recommend you do, they’re great fun. This year at the Palladium Jennifer Saunders and Julian Clary star in Peter Pan. You can get your tickets here.
Victorian London set the stage for many of the beloved Christmas traditions we hold dear today. From the timeless melodies of carol singers to the festive decorations adorning the streets, the Victorian era shaped the way we celebrate the holiday season. As we bask in the warmth of our own Christmas traditions, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the nostalgia and charm of a Dickensian Christmas, where the spirit of generosity, community, and festive joy took center stage in the heart of Victorian London.
Come and explore Christmas in the East end of London on our Eat the East End food tour.
You can even gift a loved one a food tour voucher this Christmas. Click here to buy a gift voucher.
How to visit Borough Market.
Borough Market is one of the oldest markets in London. It’s an absolute must do when in London and is our most popular food tour. Here we give tips on how to visit Borough market, including what to eat and when to go.
So how do you visit Borough market?
Well the obvious answer is to join one of our food tours of course. We run smaller group tours (no more than 10 people) so you can get closer to the action and experience the market like a local. If you don;t have the time to join our tours here’s some tips to get the most out of your visit to the market.
How to get to Borough market.
The market is right at the south end of London Bridge. London Bridge station is right next to the market itself and provides fantastic transport links to the rest of London. If the weather allows a really cool way to arrive at the market is to walk over London Bridge. The reason that Borough market is where it is is due to this bridge. The first to cross the river Thames and as a result the location of all the trade and activity back in London’s early days.
When to visit Borough market.
The market is open Tueaday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. We highly recommend getting there at opening times as the place does get crowded. Like many inner city markets it’s a labrynth of alleyways and passages. It’s really easy to get lost and not actually see a lot of the market. If you arrive early then you can at least beat some of these crowds.
What to eat.
We could talk for days about the amazing food on offer at the market. One must try would be the sausage rolls at Ginger Pig butcher. These guys were one of the first vendors to open up here in Borough and they pride themselves on farm to table produce. Another place we love is Juma kitchen which is a really cool Iraqi cuisine hut. They have won numerous awards including being finalists in the BBC’s food and farming awards.
What to buy.
The market itself has a small souvenir shop which a lot of our guests enjoy popping into. On the outskirts of the market are smaller, local vendors selling produce that you can take away. Don’t miss Pate moi who have a delicious mushroom pate which they claim is the wolrd’s most addictive. Also Bath soft cheeses sell amazing cheese that you can take home and enjoy with a nice glass of wine after your day of exploring.
Of course we’d love to host you on our Borough market food tours. We keep the groups small so that there’s less stress and everyone can feel involved. We also visit a few places not mentioned here and not that well known. You can book by clicking here.
The best markets in London
Some of the best markets in the country can be found in London. We are really lucky to be able to enjoy amazing art, antiques, fashions and no forgetting food right on our doorstep. Many guests who come on our food tours ask us what are our favourite markets in the capital so here’s a list of our top 5.
Borough Market
Known as one of the best street food markets in the UK a visit to Borough is a must for every food lover visiting London. Situated at the south end of London bridge the market is also one of the oldest in London dating back over 1,000 years. We host food tours on market days (Wednesday to Sunday) where we explore the market as well as the fascinating surrounding areas. Highlights of our tastings include freshly baked empanadas, traditional fish and chips and some of the best cheese in the country. Don’t miss it, book your spot here.
Alfie’s Antique Market
This is a really unique experience. Alfies is located in Marylebone and is open Tuesday to Saturday. If you are an antiques lover you’re in the right place. Spread over 4 floors there are over 100 dealers selling everything from old electronics to period furniture. It’s a great place to stroll around even if you aren’t buying anything.
Broadway Market
Hosted on Saturdays this Hackney market is for the hip and trendy. A traditional fruit and veg market has been here since the late 19th century but now it is the home of organic food, vintage clothing and books and gifts to tempt you in parting with your cash. It’s a great spot for food as well with some really good stalls but also some great restaurants in the local area.
Columbia road Flower Market
Get the instagram ready for your photos. Columbia market is hosted every Sinday just off the main drag of Shoreditch. The street is transformed with the coloruful plants, bulbs, flowers and trees on sale. It gets really busy so give yourself plenty of time to wnader the street and it’s surrounding area. There’s some great little coffee shops along the road as well so even if you go on a non market day, you’ll find something good there.
Greenwich Market
This indoor market dates back to the 18th century. There’s a great selection of gift stalls, including lewellery and other nic nacs. Theres even some popular furniture sellers based here. You are very close to the river so during the summer it’s a good market to visit with the breeze. There’s also some good street food to sample while you’re there.
Are you planning on coming to London in 2023? If so we’d love to show you around on one of our food tours. Explore London’s east end or Borough market with us.
Christmas in London
Christmas in London is a magical time. The shops are all decorated with colourful lights. The bars and restaurant are full of revellers and the mood across the city is one of excitement and fun. We always say that there’s no bad time to visit London but really one of our favourite seasons is the run up to Christmas.
So what can you do in London at Christmas. Well a festive food tour of course. But apart from that here’s a list of some of our favourite activites.
Christmas Markets.
All across the UK November brings the arrival of Christmas markets. Cities across the country are flooded with small stalls selling all sorts of wierd and wonderful things. From unique gifts for family and friends to some amazing food selections. Mulled wine and traditional german sausages are always high on the menu. London is no different. You can explore the christmas markets in Covent Garden, Leicester square and the Southbank centre as well as many other sites across the capital. Be warned though, they are a bit expensive.
A trip to the theatre.
One of everyone’s favourite christmas films comes to the west end this year. Elf the musical runs from 14th November to 7th January at the Dominion theatre and promises to be a treat for all the family. You could also try and catch the always popular Lion King which is on at the Lyceum theatre or Frozen at the Theatre Royal on Drury lane.
Christmas Lights tour.
You can take a tour of the Christmas lights with our friends at Visit London Taxi tours. You’ll explore Oxford street, Regent street and Mayfair just to name a few. And all from the comofrt of your own private London black cab. If you want to stop off at some Christmas markets along the way, no problem.
Try your hand at Ice Skating.
Whenever the temperature drops in the UK we like to challenge ourselves to a bit of ice skating. This probably dates back to the 1984 winter olympics when Torvill and Dean won gold at figure skating. Ever since then we’ve been a nation of wannabe ice skaters. Most of us fail miserably and to see this in action, or evben to join us in our falling and sliding about you can visit any of the pop up ice skating rings that appear over the christmas months. One of our favourites is at Hampton Court where you can skate away in Henry the 8th’s back garden.
Whatever you decide to do, London is an amazing city to visit at Christmas. We’d of course love to show you some of our favourite spots as well as food stalls this December. So if you’re visiting London get in touch and join our food tours.
Team bonding food tours.
Over the past few months our team bonding food tours have been very popular here in London. We’ve enjoyed hosting teams from local offices as well as those visiting us for conferences and events. Food is always a great reason to get people together. After the covid pandemic it has never been more important to strengthen your work teams bond. And what better way to do it than on a food tour. Sampling some of the best bites in London and learning about some great stories along the way.
So what exactly is a team bonding food tour?
We’ve all done those team building afternoons where half of the office don’t want to be there. Perhaps its a physically challenging exercise or it’s just not interesting.
By using food as the main subject you automatically include everyone. We all need to eat, we all have memories of food (good and bad). Everyone has an opinion of food and as such your team bonding event is guaranteed to be more inclusive and memorable.
A typical team building food tour takes about 3 hours. As each group is private we are very flexible with the time of day we host the events but we find many people enjoy an afternoon session.
Over the course of 3 hours we explore an area of London and visit approximately 6 locally run, independent food businesses. At each business we enjoy a dish or a drink (sometimes both) that each establishment is famous for. Again, as each corporate group is private we tailor the dishes to suit your dietary requirements.
Our expert food tour guides will lead the way, sharing stories and fun facts throughout the tour.
Who would benefit from a corporate team food tour?
Well the simple answer is anyone looking to do something different with their team. Something inclusive that everyone can enjoy. Something memorable but also with a social conscience. By taking a team building food tour you are supporting at least 6 local food and drink businesses. It doesn’t need saying that at the moment many of these businesses are doing all they can to survive so it’s great that we can help them whilst enjoying our tour.
How to reserve your teams food tour.
It’s as simple as sending an email to our corporate team james@bitestours.com
We’ll arrange a quick call with you to find out your needs, number and possible dates. We’ll create a few otpions for you and from there we’ll go forward and tailor make the perfect team event.
We can’t wait to show you all around some of our favourite areas of London and especially our favourite food stops.
Where to Find London’s Best Fish and Chips?
Whether you eat them out of the paper on the way home or on the wall outside the shop, nothing beats a good fish and chips. This iconic British meal is a delicious reward at the end of a long day or ideal to soak up the aftermath of a night out.
At London Bites, we love a good chippie tea any day of the week. But with all of London to find your new local, where should you begin? We’ve rounded up our reliable faves across the city’s four corners so you don’t have to! From classic chips to vegan flavours, we’ve got you covered.
Exploring the city through its dishes is our method of choice. If you need advice on where to wow your tastebuds, get in touch. From our East End Food Tours to our local expertise, you won’t find better guides to the capital’s unique culinary scene.
Poppie’s, Various London Locations
Poppie’s is a popular tourist destination, but it’s genuinely worth the hype. With restaurants dotted around the city at Soho, Camden, and Spitalfields, Poppie’s combines fifties aesthetic and nostalgic flavours — we’re looking at you, jellied eels — with local fish from Billingsgate Market.
The owner, Pat ‘Pop’ Newland, knows a thing or two about this delectable dish. He started his career at the age of 11 cutting up old newspapers to wrap chips. Now, over 50 years later, his chain of chippies is a huge success.
If you want your saveloy with a slice of East End living history, Poppie’s is the place for you.
The Golden Hind, Marylebone
Nestled in the heart of Marylebone Village, The Golden Hind is not strictly a chippie, but this friendly west London pub serves a cracking dish of fresh fish. Established in 1914, the pub has become one of the premier places for this potato-based dish.
Offering several types of fish either fried in groundnut oil or steamed with olive oil and oregano, this LGBTQ-friendly pub has been updated to meet modern tastebuds. The Golden Hind is great for large servings under £20. Not bad for west London!
Fish Lounge, Brixton
This south London chippie is a hidden gem. Spotlessly clean and the cheapest on our list, you can dine in at Fish Lounge without worrying about your wallet. The small dining area is a welcome retreat from the bustling Brixton Hill road and the staff is incredibly welcoming.
Just a 13-minute walk from Brixton tube, it’s a nice little spot to pop into after a few pints. With fresh fish that is sustainably sourced, this local chippie does what it says on the tin. No frills, just the straight-up classic.
Gigs, Fitzrovia
Smack bang in the middle of a historical hub, Gigs fish and chips bring a flavour of their own to London’s streets. Offering a Cypriot twist to the traditional dish, the staff at Gigs have been using their Mediterranean methods of cooking dishes over natural wood charcoal since 1958.
Gigs is located in central London, just five minutes from Goodge St and Warren St station. It’s a great place to refuel after visiting the British Museum or strolling around the streets of Bloomsbury. Gigs has been going strong for 60 years and at £15.50 for a big portion, we’re not surprised!
Sutton and Sons, Various London Locations
Heading a little further to the northeast of London, our final fave is Sutton and Sons. With more than 20 years of experience serving fish and chips in Hackney, this chippie branched out into vegan food in 2018.
After trialling vegan options to the menu at the original Stoke Newington store, the Hackney branch now serves vegan food only. Rather than the classic tofu for ‘tofish’, Sutton and Sons opt for banana blossom as a base for their fish and chips
So why not try a refreshing plant-based version of this classic, without sacrificing any of the flavours?
Whether you prefer your fish and chips with pickled egg, pickled onion, or pickled nothing, we hope this list will have you keen to find your new favourite fish and chip spot. Have we missed your lovely local? Let us know! We’re always happy to wrap our tastebuds around more chip-shop chips.
While London Bites calls the East End home, we’re always exploring the streets to find the best local businesses. If you’re keen to explore our home patch, try our London East End Food Tour! Or, if you’re looking for something further afield, get in touch and we’ll whip up the best recommendations for your delicious day trip.
How to Spend 48 Hours in London on a Budget?
The weekend’s finally here and it’s time to make the most of those precious days away from your desk. With plenty of excitement and activities — many of which are free — London is a great place to make the most of your 48 hours of freedom!
At London Bites, we know how important it is to enjoy the weekend without breaking the bank. As locals living in the capital city, we’ve compiled our favourite places to visit in a limited amount of time.
We love exploring the city through our stomachs, so we’ve included some tasty food recommendations alongside each place. Our Foodie Tours of London are a wallet-friendly, fun way to sate your hunger for culture and lunch!
Each of our tours is customisable to suit your walking needs and food tolerances. If you need a little more information about what we do, why not get in touch? We’re happy to share our history and unique way of navigating London’s bustling streets.
Explore the East End’s Criminal Past and Culinary Delights
London’s East End is one of the most famous parts of the city. Beyond the trendy streets of Shoreditch, the East End is a culinary melting pot of South Asian, Jewish, and Vietnamese food. The cuisine reflects the diverse history of this vibrant area and the communities living here.
One of our favourite Sunday morning activities is to head to Columbia Road Flower Market and pick up a new plant pal. After you’ve squeezed your way out of the colourful street, stroll down the road to Brick Lane and grab a bagel from one of the oldest Jewish bakeries in Britain.
Head further into Whitechapel to discover the grizzly past of Jack the Ripper and the Kray Twins. The Kray Twins regularly frequented The Blind Beggar pub, where you can have a pint, chat with the locals, and hear stories of the infamous crime duo.
If you want to explore this buzzing inner-city through your tastebuds, our London East End Food Tour runs every Saturday. Stopping off at six of our favourite locally-run businesses, our tours pepper history alongside delicious bites, giving you a full flavour profile of the East End.
Marvel at Greenwich’s Maritime History and Food Market
Famous for its naval history and sprawling green spaces, Greenwich is a lovely south London spot to visit if you only have 48 hours. Located along the River Thames, visitors can pay to step aboard the 19th-century clipper, the Cutty Sark, and learn about its role in shipping tea.
There’s also a covered food market where you can sample all kinds of world food. We like to pick up a snack and head to the river to watch the world go by. Sate your need for all things green in Greenwich park, which covers 74 acres and has beautiful panoramas of the whole city.
Soak Up Some Free Art at the Tate Modern
If you want a double dose of iconic buildings, we recommend starting at St Paul’s Cathedral and crossing the Millennium Bridge to see the permanent, free collections at the Tate Modern. From the bridge over the Thames, you can turn your head to see both the iconic cathedral dome and the imposing former power station that is now the Tate.
With five floors full of art from sculpture to surrealism, this bastion of modern art is a must-see for any culture vulture. The views from the top floor are also stunning. After you’ve walked around the museum, visit the viewing platform to see the iconic City of London skyline.
The Tate Modern is round the corner from the delectable Borough Market that’s open almost every day of the year. From tacos and butchers to organic wine and tapas, this London staple has a flavour for everyone.
Breathe In the Fresh Air on Hampstead Heath
This north London spot is one of natural splendour. The ancient heath spans 320 hectares and is one of the highest points in London. The length runs from Hampstead to Highgate – home of the famous cemetery. So if you want to visit Karl Marx’s grave on your London weekend, this is the place to be!
If you want to indulge in a spot of wild swimming, Hampstead is home to three natural bathing ponds and a lido. After a dip, walk up Parliament Hill via the food market for a snack to accompany a stunning view of the city.
Live Your Neon Dream at God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow
While this is no longer one of London’s best-kept secrets, God’s Own Junkyard is well worth the tube ride to the north end of the Victoria line. The proprietor, Chris Bracey, has been collecting and procuring neon signs for over 37 years, with many recognisable highlights in the gallery.
Film fans can see the signs from Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut and the 1989 Batman. After you’ve snapped your next profile pic, drop into the Junkyard’s cafe – The Rolling Scones Cafe/Bar for a drink. And best of all, this neon wonderland is free to enter!
We hope our recommendations have inspired you to cram as much into your 48 hours in London as possible. The city is full of fun activities and flavours. From free museums to our London East End Food Tour, we guarantee you’ll have a great weekend whatever you choose.
If you’re finalising your quick trip to London or need a little more help finessing the details, why not get in touch with us? As local Londoners, we know the city like the back of our hand and are more than happy to provide some delicious recommendations!