Updated: 12th October 2026
Tucked beneath the railway arches of Ropewalk in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is one of our favourite food markets in London. It’s smaller and calmer than Borough Market, with a cobbled lane of independent traders, natural wine bars and street food you’ll want to come back for.
We’ve spent more weekends here than we’d like to admit, so this guide covers the stalls we keep going back to and what to order at each. It also covers when to visit (including the Friday evening market) and how to turn it into a full afternoon with the Bermondsey Beer Mile next door.
It’s a stone’s throw away from Bermondsey Street and not too far from the world-famous Borough Market, London Bridge and Tower Bridge.
Quick Facts about Maltby Street Market
Opening hours: Friday 5:30 pm to 9 pm, Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 11 am to 4 pm
Where: Arch 46, Ropewalk, Maltby Street, Bermondsey, SE1 3PA
Nearest stations: London Bridge and Bermondsey (both about a 10 to 15 minute walk)
How it started: in 2009, when Monmouth Coffee began selling from its storage arch on Saturdays. Other Borough Market traders joined in 2010 and 2011.
Why it’s called Ropewalk: the market lane follows an old rope walk, the long straight lane where rope was made for ships. It was once owned by Robert Rich.
The arches: they carry the London and Greenwich Railway, the city’s first steam railway, built in the 1830s. Trains still rumble overhead while you eat.
Our favourite places to eat in Maltby Street
To be honest, you don’t need to plan anything before visiting. Just see what you like the look of (or smell of) and dive in! But in case you want to know what you’re in for, below are some of our favourite places in Maltby Street Market.
The Beefsteaks
If you’re craving a hearty, no-fuss meal, The Beefsteaks is a must.
Serving delicious steak and chips cooked to perfection, they focus on quality ingredients, letting the flavours speak for themselves. Their steak, cooked just right, paired with golden, crispy chips, makes for a satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.
They use Onglet steak, which means it is incredibly juicy, and the chimichurri topping is the one to go for!
Bon Vino Enoteca
For arguably the best pizzas in London, head over to Bon Vino Enoteca. With a cosy atmosphere and an incredible selection of wine, this spot is perfect for pizza lovers. Don't miss out on their Primitivo wine, easily recognised by its camouflage label—it pairs wonderfully with their wood-fired pizzas and is one of our favourites.
Authentic Neapolitan crusts and fresh toppings make this a standout place for those seeking an authentic Italian experience in the heart of London. It’s quite the cosy, rustic yet romantic spot too!
Bon Vino Enoteca is probably one of our favourite restaurants in London, a true hidden gem.
Bar Tozino
Bar Tozino is an excellent spot if you're in the mood for Spanish tapas. Tucked under the railway arches, it feels like stepping into a little corner of Spain. Their selection of classic tapas dishes—think rich jamón, perfectly seasoned patatas bravas, and delicious manchego—makes this place a cosy spot to enjoy good food with friends alongside a glass of sherry or Spanish wine.
We came here after our trip to San Sebastián and were impressed by how authentic the food is here. Make sure you get a Gilda or 2!
A gilda to start the meal
40 Maltby Street
40 Maltby Street is a fantastic wine bar with a constantly changing chalkboard menu.
The food here is seasonal, simple, yet stunningly delicious, highlighting the best of fresh, local produce. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. They don't take bookings, so it’s best to arrive early to snag a table. Pair your meal with a carefully chosen glass of wine for a truly memorable meal.
Comptoir Gourmand
When it comes to pastries, Comptoir Gourmand is unmissable.
Their croissants are easily some of the best in London—flaky, buttery, and incredibly fresh. Beyond croissants, they offer an array of delectable pastries, tarts, and sandwiches. It's the perfect place to grab a sweet treat and a coffee to kick-start your morning at the market.
They also serve Monmouth coffee. Win win!
WatchHouse Coffee
Just outside the front of Maltby Street Market, you'll find WatchHouse Coffee's roastery, where they craft some of the finest coffee in London. This spot serves as both a hub for their exceptional coffee production and a welcoming café for visitors.
Here, you can sip on a rich flat white or a pour-over brewed with beans roasted on-site, giving you a taste of freshness that truly stands out. The stylish yet laid-back atmosphere, combined with their focus on quality and sustainability, makes WatchHouse an essential stop before or after exploring the market’s hidden gems.
Note that seating is limited to high stools along both walls—there are no tables or regular chairs available.
Tips for Visiting Maltby Street
Go early on Saturday, or come on a Friday night. By lunchtime on a Saturday, the lane gets packed, and the most popular stalls start selling out. Arrive around 10 am for the easiest wander, or try the Friday evening market (5:30 to 9 pm), which feels more like a relaxed night out.
Share and graze. The best way to do Maltby Street is to order one or two things at several stalls and share them, rather than filling up at the first one you see.
Remember Sunday is shorter. It runs from 11 am to 4 pm, and some traders pack up early, so don’t leave it too late.
Make a day of it. The Bermondsey Beer Mile runs right past the market, and Bermondsey Street’s restaurants, bars and coffee shops are a few minutes’ walk away.
Check who’s trading before you go. The line-up changes from week to week, so it’s worth a quick look at the traders list on the market’s website.
How to Get to Maltby Street Market
Address: Arch 46, Ropewalk, Maltby Street, London SE1 3PA
From London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern lines, plus National Rail), about 15 minutes on foot
This is the route we’d recommend, because it takes you along Bermondsey Street on the way:
Leave the station and walk east along Tooley Street.
Turn right onto Bermondsey Street and follow it south.
Turn left onto Tanner Street at the tennis courts.
Cross Tower Bridge Road and carry on to Maltby Street. The market is under the railway arches on your left.
From Bermondsey (Jubilee line), about 10 to 15 minutes on foot
This is the closest Tube station if you’re coming from the east or Canary Wharf.
By bus - Several routes stop on Tower Bridge Road and Tooley Street, a few minutes’ walk away. Use Google Maps or Citymapper for the best route from where you are.
By bike - There are Santander Cycles docking stations around Bermondsey, and quiet back streets make it an easy ride from central London.
By car - We wouldn’t drive. Parking nearby is limited and expensive; the market sits right on the edge of the Congestion Charge zone, and all of London is covered by ULEZ.
Is Maltby Street Market Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. It’s smaller and calmer than Borough Market, and the food is every bit as good. Whether it’s steak from Beefsteaks, pastries from Comptoir Gourmand or a glass of wine at 40 Maltby Street, it’s one of our favourite ways to spend a weekend afternoon in London.
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