What began as an unregulated sprawl has evolved into the vibrant Earlham Street Market we see today. This market, nestled in Covent Garden, has a history stretching back over three centuries. Let’s delve into the story of Earlham Street Market.
Earlham Street Market likely emerged around 1710 when the street was completed. Imagine London’s rapid growth. Unregulated street markets sprung up, providing essential goods to new population centers. Traders hauled barrows from wholesale markets. They cleaned and sorted goods and sold them in the growing suburban streets. Many of these markets transformed into London’s modern high streets.
However in 1867 the Metropolitan Streets Act sought to prohibit street trading. Public outcry led to a swift amendment. Traders were now subject to police regulation. Adolphe Thompson described Earlham Street Market in 1877. He noted it was crowded with traders and located between Seven Dials and the now-demolished Five Dials.
By 1892, the market had shrunk to 41 stalls. Twelve were operated by shopkeepers. The rest were independent street traders. Despite its diminished size, it was remembered as a long-standing marketing center.
The London County Council took over in 1927. The Metropolitan Borough of Holborn managed Earlham Street Market until 1965. Then the London Borough of Camden took control. In 1983, Perlmutter noted only 22 pitches. Fresh seafood, antiques, and vintage records were among the goods sold.
The mid-1990s saw a shift. Twelve stalls sold army surplus, new and secondhand clothing, wooden toys, and recorded music. Today, Earlham Street Market boasts 24 pitches. It is open Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 4 pm. You can find a variety of goods including street food and clothing.
Earlham Street itself was originally two streets. Great Earl Street lay east of Seven Dials. Little Earl Street was to the west. In the 1930s, they merged to become Earlham Street. Today, the Seven Dials Jazz Club and the Cambridge Theatre reside on Earlham Street.
Getting here is easy. Bus routes 14, 19, 24, 29, and 176 serve the area. Covent Garden and Leicester Square are the nearest tube stations.
Earlham Street Market stands as a testament to London’s ever-evolving street culture. From its humble beginnings to its present-day form, the market has adapted to the changing times. It continues to offer a unique shopping experience in the heart of Covent Garden. Take a stroll through Earlham Street Market. Experience the history and vibrant atmosphere for yourself.