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OUR HISTORY

East Street Market is where everyday life and extraordinary talent coexist, woven into the social fabric of South London. East Street is unique in its cultural diversity, bringing together European,  Asian, Latin and African Communities. 

historical black and white image of walworth road

© Walworth Road, 1930, Southwark Heritage

THE HISTORY OF EAST STREET

East Street has been at the heart of Walworth for over 400 years. What began as a lively gathering of traders and neighbours on 'The Lane' has grown into one of London’s most iconic street markets.

Famous Figures & Locals

image of Johnny and his family

© Southwark News

blue plate of east street market

Generations of Londoners grew up here, including some of the city’s most famous or many more local faces.

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Charlie Chaplin, who spent his childhood wandering the streets of Walworth, drew on the humour and hardship of local life to inspire his iconic films.

Family owners in their cafe in East street

LOCAL
HERITAGE

OUR HISTORY IN NUMBERS 

Years of Experience:

150+

Years and Still Buzzing

Community Legacy:

1880

Year Market Established

Residents Served:

20,000

Southwark and Beyond

Local staying local

90%

Local Traders

Our Journey

A Legacy of Collaboration and Community 

East Street has been woven into the social fabric of London. Here, everyday life and extraordinary talent coexist. What truly sets East Street Market apart is its incredible cultural diversity.

South Asian, Eastern European, and, more recently, Latin American communities found a home at the market, each group adding new layers of flavour, sound, and colour to its bustling atmosphere.

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