London stands out as a shopping and market destination thanks to its mix of historic markets, trendy boutiques, and culinary hotspots. Whether you’re hunting for a luxury handbag on Savile Row, exploring the lively stalls of Borough Market, or indulging in African and Caribbean cuisines in Brixton, London offers a diverse range of shopping and food tours that cater to all tastes. We’ve sampled experiences where you can enjoy intimate small-group outings, private bespoke adventures, or guided walks through iconic markets—each providing a unique way to see the city beyond the typical tourist spots. For food lovers, tours like PRIVATE London Food Tours – Borough Market, Soho, East End promise personal attention and hearty tastings, while shopping-focused outings like London Shopping Tours help uncover London’s best retail treasures.
London’s markets aren’t just about shopping—they’re lively places filled with stories, culture, and flavor. Whether you’re after gourmet bites, artisan cheeses, or fabulous fashion, the experiences below give you a chance to explore with a local guide who can reveal secrets and share insider tips. From boroughs of diverse foods to famous markets with a history stretching back centuries, this list covers the best options to get the most authentic London shopping and market experience.
This list features a variety of tours: from culinary-focused food tours at Borough Market and East London to market explorations in Camden, Brixton, and Spitalfields, plus shopping excursions in central and upscale neighborhoods. Each experience offers something special, whether it’s tasting authentic British cheeses, discovering hidden gems in Covent Garden, or browsing luxury stores on Savile Row. Explore the options below to find the perfect match for your interests and schedule.
1. PRIVATE London Food Tours – Borough Market, Soho, East End
At number 1, this private, customizable food tour offers a deeply personal way to explore London’s culinary scene. With a rating of 5.0/5 from 255 reviews and a price of around $274 per person, it’s best suited for foodies wanting a tailored experience. You can choose from various itineraries, including Borough Market or the East End, where you’ll enjoy generous samples that can easily turn into a hearty meal. The guide will steer you clear of tourist traps, taking you to locally loved spots and sharing stories behind each bite. Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to rub shoulders with locals.
This tour’s strength lies in its flexibility: you set your preferences, and your guide creates an itinerary to match. Perfect for those seeking a culinary adventure with a personal touch. The major drawback? It’s priced higher than group tours, but many say the experience is more than worth it. If you’re a serious foodie or celebrating a special occasion, this is a top-tier choice.
Bottom line: For a custom, intimate exploration of London’s food scene, this private tour offers unmatched personalization and quality.
2. London Borough Market & Bankside Food Tour with Eating Europe
Number 2 on our list is a small-group tour rated 5.0/5 with 241 reviews, costing about $129. For that modest price, you get to sample six different dishes across six locations, making it a great value. Your guide will help you navigate the vast Borough Market, pointing out the best stalls and explaining the stories behind iconic foods like sausage rolls and sticky toffee pudding. The small group size—limited to ten—ensures plenty of attention and the chance to ask questions.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on quality over quantity—you won’t need to pay extra for food, as six tastings are included in the price. Highlights include a visit to Borough Market’s fish & chips shop, Neal’s Yard Dairy, and a traditional cider house. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the rich history woven into the food.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-balanced mix of tasting and storytelling, ideal for travelers who want a taste of London’s culinary diversity without overspending.
3. Tea and Doughnuts: Small-Group Borough Market Walking Food Tour
Number 3 is a 2-hour, 5-star rated tour costing about $96. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth who want to indulge in mouthwatering doughnuts. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll visit bakeries, food trucks, and pastry schools, sampling delicious doughnuts at every stop. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s food scene and get great photo opportunities.
Highlights include stops at St. John Bakery and Bread Ahead Bakery, with tasting included at each. Your guide will share stories about Borough Market and the surrounding neighborhood, making it both a culinary and cultural walk.
Guests love the personal attention and the chance to try unique doughnuts you won’t find just anywhere. It’s a fabulous treat for families or anyone craving a sweet adventure in London.
Bottom line: Ideal for doughnut lovers seeking a fun, relaxed walk with plenty of tasty treats and a local guide.
4. London Camden Market Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
This 3-4 hour tour in Camden Market scores a perfect 5.0/5 from 139 reviews and costs around $130. It’s great for those eager to explore London’s alternative scene and diverse cuisines. Your guide will take you through vibrant stalls, tasting everything from tacos to British cheeses, and introduce you to lesser-known eateries off the main drag.
A major feature is the insiders’ look at Camden’s eclectic food scene, with stops at 192-198 Camden High St and Camden Lock Market. The tour includes local stories woven into each tasting, making it more than just a food crawl.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the variety of foods, especially the birria tacos and gin. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters wanting a deep dive into Camden’s culture.
Bottom line: For a lively, flavorful exploration of Camden’s food scene, this tour combines history, culture, and great eats.
5. Brixton Market Tour with African and Caribbean Cuisine
Number 5 offers an in-depth cultural food experience rated 5.0/5 from 101 reviews at about $109. It’s perfect if you want to taste authentic African and Caribbean dishes like Jallof Rice and Jerk Chicken directly from local eateries. Your guide shares stories about Brixton’s history and community, making it a meaningful culinary journey.
Stops include David Bowie Memorial, Electric Avenue, Pop Brixton, and Brixton Village, giving you a full immersion into the local food scene and cultural significance. The tour is small and personal, with tastings at black-owned businesses.
Guests describe Obi, the guide, as personable and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational. It’s excellent for foodies interested in cultural stories and authentic flavors.
Bottom line: This tour combines food, culture, and community, ideal for those wanting a deeper understanding of Brixton’s diverse heritage.
6. Food & Drink Walking Tour in South East London: Bermondsey & Borough Market
Number 6 is a 3-hour tour rated 5.0/5 from 79 reviews, costing about $103. This journey takes you from Borough Market to hidden local gems in Bermondsey. Expect to sample foods from artisanal vendors, enjoy a G&T at a gin distillery, and explore less touristy spots.
Your guide helps you navigate the busy market, pointing out secret food spots and sharing local stories. The tour includes stops at Maltby Street Market and Shad Thames, two of London’s lesser-known foodie destinations.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to see the city beyond the typical sights. It’s perfect for those wanting a more local, relaxed experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a mix of traditional and hidden food scenes, suitable for curious travelers wanting to go beyond the crowds.
7. London E-Bike Tour & Borough Market
Number 7 combines cycling and sightseeing with a 2-hour 15-minute e-bike tour rated 4.5/5 from 279 reviews, costing just over $81. It’s great for covering more ground quickly, including Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and Shakespeare’s Globe.
Your guide leads you through London’s iconic landmarks with helmet and bike included, making it an active, fun way to see the city’s highlights. The tour ends at Borough Market, where you can explore more at your leisure.
Guests mention the smooth ride and the chance to see parts of London you might miss on foot. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with cycling.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a dynamic tour that combines sightseeing and food, with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun.
8. Borough Market and Beyond
This 1.5-hour private tour with a 5-star rating is perfect for getting a quick yet meaningful introduction to Borough Market and its surroundings. Costing only about $20, it’s a budget-friendly way to uncover hidden histories and local landmarks like the Globe Theatre and Millennium Bridge.
Your local guide shares stories behind the landmarks and tips for further exploration. The tour is intimate and flexible, ideal if you’re short on time but want some insight into London’s historic waterfront.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to learn about the city’s past in a relaxed setting.
Bottom line: Best suited for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors who want a brief, engaging overview of Borough’s secrets.
9. London Shopping Tours
Number 9 is a 2-hour shopping-focused tour rated 5.0/5, costing about $131. This tour is perfect for fashionistas and retail therapy fans. You’ll visit luxury boutiques on Savile Row, the iconic Liberty store, and Fortnum & Mason for fine teas. You can upgrade your experience with a Chelsea-focused route that includes Harrods and The Kings Road.
Your guide shares insider shopping tips and history behind London’s best shops, ensuring you get a full retail experience. Guests rave about how they discovered hidden boutiques and found perfect souvenirs with expert help.
This tour suits luxury shoppers or anyone wanting a curated retail experience. It’s a good value considering the exclusive locations visited.
Bottom line: For a fashion and retail-focused experience, this tour is perfect—especially if you want insider knowledge and tailored suggestions.
10. London Borough Market Tea and Doughnuts Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from 29 reviews, this 1.5- to 2-hour tour costs just $44 and is great for sweet tooths and tea lovers. Starting with doughnuts at St. John Bakery and ending with tea at Bird & Blend, it’s a relaxed way to indulge and enjoy the scenery.
The tour includes stunning views over Tower Bridge and a chance to sample multiple doughnuts along with various teas. It’s particularly suited for families and casual travelers wanting a quick, tasty experience.
Guests note the friendly guide and the delicious treats. It’s a budget-friendly choice that combines desserts, beverages, and sightseeing in one package.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a sweet, relaxed outing with plenty of photo opportunities and tasty treats.
11. African & Caribbean Food Tour around Brixton Market
This tour, rated 5.0/5 from 20 reviews, costs about $210 and offers a three-hour exploration of Brixton’s African and Caribbean cuisine. Obi, your guide, takes you through local eateries, sampling Jollof rice, fried dumplings, plantains, and more. You’ll hear stories about Brixton’s community and culture, making it more than just a food tour.
Stops include Brixton Market, Pop Brixton, and Brixton Village, each offering a deep dive into local flavors. The focus on black-owned businesses makes it a meaningful cultural experience.
Guests highlight Obi’s personable nature and the authentic dishes. It’s ideal for food lovers seeking cultural insight and community connection.
Bottom line: This tour combines culinary delight and cultural depth, perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Brixton.
12. 2 Hour Big Ben to Borough Market Walking Tour
With a perfect 5.0/5 from 18 reviews and costing around $41, this short, fast-paced tour is great for time-pressed travelers. It covers Big Ben, Westminster, the Houses of Parliament, and ends at Borough Market.
Your guide provides insider stories and fascinating facts about London’s landmarks. The tour offers a quick overview for first-timers wanting to see the highlights while sampling market snacks.
Guests love how efficient and engaging it is, and many appreciate the focus on details like the bells of Big Ben and the architecture of Westminster.
Bottom line: Best for first-time visitors with limited time who still want a rich, guided overview of central London.
13. Camden Market, Borough Market and Covent Garden Market Private Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from 11 reviews, this private half-day tour costs about $219. It covers Camden’s edgy vibe, Borough’s food stalls, and Covent Garden’s street performers. With personalized attention, you can shop at artisan stores and explore markets at your own pace.
Your guide leads you through Camden’s eclectic stalls, Borough’s historic food market, and Covent Garden’s lively streets. The tour ends with recommendations for local dining and shopping.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and tailored experience, noting how they discovered shops and foods they wouldn’t have found alone.
Bottom line: This customizable tour is perfect for those who want a curated, private exploration of London’s diverse markets.
14. Borough Market Food Tour with a Foodie Tailored to Your Tastes & Interests
Rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews and costing about $219, this bespoke tasting experience prices for those who want a customized food adventure. You develop a personalized itinerary with your guide, sampling up to eight British delicacies like Cumberland sausages, artisanal chocolates, and even jellied eel.
Your guide adjusts the stops based on your tastes and interests, making it perfect for adventurous eaters. The tour includes wine, beer, or soft drinks and even hotel pickups if requested.
Guests mention the flexibility and the delicious variety. It’s well-suited for culinary explorers who want to try new flavors in an intimate setting.
Bottom line: For a completely personalized food tour, this experience is hard to beat.
15. Spitalfields & Borough Market Food Tour
This 4-hour, small-group tour at £132 offers a deep dive into East London’s markets. You’ll explore Spitalfields, Borough Market, and local shops, sampling pies, dumplings, cheese, and more.
Your local guide shares hidden stories and recommendations for further exploring London’s food scene. It’s suitable for those wanting a longer, more immersive experience.
Guests love the variety of foods and the insider insights from the guide, making it a full, satisfying day.
Bottom line: Perfect for serious food lovers eager for an in-depth tour of East London’s markets.
How to Choose the Right Market & Shopping Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For culinary adventures, tours like PRIVATE London Food Tours and Borough Market & Beyond offer personalized experiences with hearty tastings. If your focus is shopping for fashion and souvenirs, London Shopping Tours provides a curated retail experience.
For those who love history and culture, tours like the Big Ben & Borough Market walk or Borough Market and beyond blend iconic sights with local stories. Foodies seeking international flavors should consider Camden Market or Brixton Food Tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak season or weekends. Think about your preferred pace, whether a short quick overview or an extended immersive day—each option offers a different way to experience London’s lively markets.
Final Thoughts
London offers a wealth of shopping and market experiences that cater to every interest and travel style. For food lovers, private tours and tastings in Borough Market or East London promise delicious discoveries. For shopping enthusiasts, curated retail walks through Mayfair, Oxford Street, or Chelsea provide a taste of London’s high-end side. For the curious, exploring historic markets and hidden backstreets reveals the city’s lesser-known stories.
If you’re after a personalized, intimate experience, consider booking a private tour like PRIVATE London Food Tours or Camden Market, Borough Market & Covent Garden. For a budget-friendly but still highly engaging experience, try Borough Market & Beyond, or if you want to combine sightseeing with tasting, the E-Bike Tour is a fun, active choice.
Whatever your style, London’s markets won’t disappoint. Be sure to book early, and prepare for a memorable culinary and shopping adventure in the UK capital.
