Leadenhall Market: London's Architectural Gem
Leadenhall Market dates back to 1321 and is situated in what was the centre of Roman London.
Grade II listed in 1972, Leadenhall Market was originally a meat, poultry and game market, but it's now home to a number of boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes and an award-winning pub.
One of the most striking aspects of Leadenhall Market is its architectural splendour.
It's housed beneath a beautifully ornate, wrought-iron and glass roof, which adds a touch of elegance to the bustling shopping district.
The glass roof and wrought iron was added in the 19th century by an architect called Sir Horace Jones.
His designs replaced the earlier stone structure - and it was later given Grade II listed status in 1972.
The cobblestone streets and colourful storefronts further enhance the market's old-world charm, making it a favourite spot for photographers and tourists alike.
Leadenhall Market's fame reached new heights when it was featured in the Harry Potter film series.
Die-hard fans of the wizarding world will recognise the market as the location of the Leaky Cauldron and the entrance to Diagon Alley in "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone."
Hagrid and Harry walk through the market and then enter the Leaky Cauldron Pub through a blue door! The blue door is located at 42 Bull’s Head Passage.
Leadenhall Market was also the backdrop for many other famous movies. These include Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, Hearafter and Love Aaj Kal.
The pop group Erasure also filmed their music video for 'Love to Hate You' in the iconic market in 1991.
This whole area is surrounded by history - in 1803, excavations in the Leadenhall Street area found a stunning example of Roman mosaic artwork, 9 feet 6 inches below street level.
The subject of the mosaic was Bacchus, god of wine, agriculture and fertility, riding on a tiger and surrounded by drinking cups, cornucopia, serpents and other symbolic objects.
Sadly, some of it had already been destroyed to build a sewer, but what remains now resides in the British Museum.
The first ancient Forum at Leadenhall dates from about 70AD, but was rebuilt in around 100 AD to be the largest Basilica Forum north of the Alps – occupying an area bigger than that of Trafalgar Square!
Its Basilica (large building), which was the most important civic building in a Roman town, was the largest outside Italy.
Today, Leadenhall Market is not just a historic site but a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
The market is home to an array of boutique shops, offering everything from fine wines and luxury fashion to artisanal chocolates and bespoke tailoring. 2021 marked the 700th anniversary of Leadenhall Market.
The market continues to host a spectacular and varied calendar of events, art installations and activations, fast becoming a cultural hub as well as an iconic landmark of London.
Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the market's diverse dining options. |
From traditional British pubs serving hearty meals to contemporary restaurants offering international cuisine, there's a culinary experience to satisfy every palate.
Don't forget to try the famous fish and chips at one of the market's eateries!
If you'd like to visit this architectural gem, here's the address: Gracechurch Street And Lime Street, London EC3V 1LT.
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