London’s historic Billingsgate fish market and Smithfield meat market are poised to close in the coming years, marking the end of traditions that date back to medieval times.
On Wednesday, the City of London Corporation, which governs the capital’s historic areas, is expected to present a bill to Parliament to cease its management of these iconic markets, both of which have operated in various forms since the 11th century.
This announcement follows a decision not to relocate the markets to a new development in Dagenham, just east of London. The move was scrapped due to escalating costs attributed to recent inflation and construction expenses, currently estimated at around £1 billion ($1.25 billion).
Instead, the corporation has reached an agreement with market traders to provide financial compensation and guidance. Operations will continue at the current sites until at least 2028, giving traders time to determine their future locations.
“This decision marks a positive new chapter for Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets, empowering traders to forge a sustainable future aligned with their long-term business goals,” stated Chris Hayward, policy chair of the City of London Corporation. “By stepping back from direct operations, we will create opportunities for these businesses to thrive independently.”
Traders now face the task of relocating, either individually or in groups, to new premises across London. While their new locations will likely be modern and well-equipped, they will lack the rich traditions that have characterized these markets for centuries.
At Smithfield, traders typically commence work at 10 p.m., primarily serving the restaurant industry, and conclude their shifts by 6 a.m., just as the rest of the city wakes up. Traditionally, nearby pubs had special licenses to open early, catering to the traders’ needs.
Peter Ackroyd, author of “London: The Biography,” notes that Billingsgate fish market has roots tracing back to the early 11th century, even before William the Conqueror’s arrival in England. Smithfield, constructed just outside the old Roman wall, became a key site for the sale of livestock later in that century. Ackroyd describes how both markets, along with others selling flowers and produce, were integral to London life—with a reputation for rowdiness and occasional violence. Renowned author Charles Dickens referred to Smithfield as a hub of “filth and mire” in both “Oliver Twist” and “Great Expectations.”
While the markets have been significantly improved since those medieval times with modern food standards, another costly renovation looms ahead. Smithfield’s structures date back to the Victorian era and underwent a significant fire in 1958. In contrast, Billingsgate has been at its current location in London Docklands since 1982, an area that has transformed from derelict to a bustling financial hub in the Canary Wharf district.
Proposals are underway for constructing 4,000 much-needed new homes on the Billingsgate site, while Smithfield is set to be developed into a cultural center, housing the new London Museum.
Credit: ABC News
