A History of Leadenhall Market
- Joel Robinson
- Jan 31
- 5 min read
When you think of London, you might picture the iconic Tower of London, or tourists bustling up and down Oxford Street. But tucked away in the heart of the City of London lies a hidden treasure, Leadenhall Market. Whether you're a history buff, a film fanatic, or just in need of a great place to explore away from the crowds, Leadenhall Market has something to delight everyone.
Did the Romans use the site of Leadenhall Market?
Long before the current crop of shops and bars filled Leadenhall Market, this location was at the centre of London’s ancient history. The Romans settled in this area during their occupation of Britain in the 1st century AD. Their famous road, Watling Street, ran through here, making it a vital commercial hub for the Roman city of Londinium. The site of Leadenhall Market today stands a stone's throw from the great Roman Forum (market) and Basilica (courts) which were built in 70 AD. Larger than the modern day St Paul’s, the Forum provided a gathering space for residents of the new city, much like Trafalgar Square does today. The Forum was destroyed in 300 AD, on the orders of Rome, as punishment for the Londoners supporting Carausius, a Roman general who briefly declared himself Emperor of Britain. The Forum and Basilica were largely forgotten, until restorative work took place on Leadenhall Market in the 19th century, unearthing a few surviving remnants of the old structure. Today, small sections of the ancient structures can be found in the basements of some of the market's shops. Sadly there is no public access officially, but if you ask nicely they may let you take a peak.
When was Leadenhall Market built?
Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th Century. The origin of the name is hotly debated, with the most likely options being that it comes from “leather market” or because the original market had a “lead” roof. Former Lord Mayor (and everyone’s favourite panto character) Richard ‘Dick’ Whittington acquired the lease to the market in the early 15th century and gifted it to the City of London Corporation who have been running it ever since. By the arrival of the Middle Ages, Leadenhall Market had become a bustling meat market, attracting traders who couldn’t find space at the poultry market on Cheapside. Most of these early traders were labelled ‘foreigners’, not in reference to their place of birth, but to signify them as traders from outside the City of London. Butcher shops lined the streets, and the air was thick with the scent of fresh produce and cuts of meat. It wasn’t a place to grab a quick bite before a show, it was the heart of London's food trade, with eggs, poultry, game, fish and even grains available to purchase. By the 1600s, the market had been redesigned to house a school and chapel, as well as being granted exclusive rights to the sale of leather and cutlery, but tragically much of the original market was destroyed by the Great Fire of London in 1666. In the rebuild, it was decided that the entire market should be covered with a roof, but this is not the one we see today.
Who designed Leadenhall Market?
By the 19th century, the market was no longer fit for purpose. The City of London had evolved into a thriving financial district, and the crowded, rowdy market needed a revamp. The great Victorian architect, Sir Horace Jones, had already redesigned Smithfield and Billingsgate Market, was the man for the job. Taking his inspiration from the markets of Milan, he created a beautiful covered arcade, replacing the medieval stone with wrought iron and glass, but still retaining the charm and character of its medieval roots. At the centre of the market he created a majestic octagonal crossing rising to a towering painted dome, completed by four magnificent dragons, the symbol of the City’s power. For those who enjoy a good story, and a great photo opportunity, Leadenhall Market is filled with fascinating details.
Who was Old Tom of Leadenhall Market?
During the 19th century, one of Leadenhall’s most beloved characters arrived. Old Tom was a gander, (a male goose), from Belgium, who arrived at Leadenhall Market in 1797, one of tens of thousands of birds scheduled to be slaughtered over the coming days. But Old Tom had other ideas. Having escaped execution by hiding, he befriended a couple of the market traders and was soon a local celebrity, popping into the local inns for scraps and honking as he wandered the arcade. Remarkably he lived to the ripe old age of 38 and, upon his death, even laid in state at the market, so admirers could pay their respects. His name lives on in the aptly named “Old Tom’s Bar”, found beneath The Lamb Tavern in Leadenhall Market.
Which films feature Leadenhall Market?
Leadenhall Market has not only lived through history — it has become part of London’s cinematic legacy. If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, you’ve probably seen Leadenhall Market without even realizing it. The market was used as the setting for The Leaky Cauldron Pub in the first film, The Philosopher’s Stone. The distinctive roof and charming cobbled lanes provided the perfect backdrop for Harry and Hagrid as they journey to collect Harry’s school books. Beyond Harry Potter, Leadenhall has also made appearances in other films, including The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, and Tomb Raider. Whether it's the vibrant colours or the atmospheric stonework, this market provides the ideal location for filmmakers looking to capture London's essence.
Is Leadenhall Market haunted?
Of course, every old building in London comes with its share of ghost stories — and Leadenhall Market is no exception. Legend has it that a phantom butcher still roams the market at night, and that the ghosts of former market traders wander the halls, searching for lost goods. If you're brave enough to visit after hours, you might just catch a glimpse of these spectral figures.
Leadenhall Market is more than just a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat, it’s a place where history, culture, and the magic of London come together. Whether you're exploring its centuries-old streets, indulging in some film nostalgia, or soaking in the atmosphere, Leadenhall offers a unique experience that’s rich in both history and charm. So, next time you’re wandering through the heart of London, take a moment to step into this timeless gem.
Happy exploring!
If you would like to visit Leadenhall Market, you should join our Free Historic City of London Tour or you can find our full schedule for all of our London Walking Tours here.