Broadway Market Hackney Top UK Shopping Street 2025

Key Points

• Broadway Market in Hackney ranked sixth among the best places to shop in the UK.
• The ranking was based on the number of independent shops, street appearance, and vibrancy.
• The survey was conducted by American Express and Global Data in support of Small Business Saturday.
• Small Business Saturday 2025 will take place on November 29, encouraging shoppers to support local small businesses.
• Broadway Market operates mainly on Saturdays with around 125 stalls selling food, crafts, and vintage clothing.
• The market dates back to the 1890s when it was a daily fruit and vegetable market.
• It has evolved to include numerous independent shops, boutiques, and restaurants open seven days a week.
• The market underwent decline and threat of demolition in the 1980s but was revived in 2004 by community-led efforts.
• The survey highlighted Gen Z trends including their love of vintage items and socialising on local high streets.
• Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK, praised young people’s conscious shopping choices supporting small businesses.

What Are the Criteria for Ranking Broadway Market Among the Best UK Shopping Streets?

As reported by the research from American Express and Global Data, Broadway Market’s ranking came from evaluating the number of independent shops, the look of the street, and the vibrancy of the market environment. These factors together showcased the market’s unique character, contributing to its sixth-place ranking nationally. The findings came in support of Small Business Saturday, an initiative to encourage shoppers to back local businesses through their purchasing power.​

What Makes Broadway Market Unique in Hackney?

Broadway Market is situated between the Regent’s Canal and the bustling London Fields area. It has a rich history dating back to the 1890s when it was known as a daily fruit and vegetable market. Historically, the street featured traditional businesses such as Fred Cooke’s eel pie and mash shop, a hardware store, and The Cat and Mutton pub, which still operates today.​

Today, Broadway Market is vibrant with around 125 stalls active mainly on Saturdays from 9 am to 5 pm, selling a range of products including food, crafts, and vintage clothing. Alongside the market stalls, independent shops, boutiques, and restaurants operate seven days a week. Notable establishments include Cafe Cecilia, Fin and Flounder fishmonger, Donion Books, Climpson & Sons coffee roastery, Noble Fine Liquor for craft beers and wine, and El Ganso cafe for tapas, demonstrating the market’s blend of traditional and contemporary offerings.​

How Has Broadway Market Evolved Over Time?

The market underwent a period of decline and even faced demolition threats in the 1980s. However, community-led efforts from 2004 revived Broadway Market, turning it into a popular hub for the East London hipster community. This regeneration has preserved the historical essence while injecting fresh life and diversity into the area.​

Additionally, it is rumoured that Broadway Market inspired Albert Square in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, indicating its cultural significance within London.​

What Are the Current Shopping Trends Impacting Markets Like Broadway Market?

The survey conducted alongside American Express’s Small Business Saturday initiative observed that Generation Z shoppers have a strong passion for buying vintage items and frequently visit their local high streets to socialise. This trend supports independent markets and small businesses, fostering community spirit and economic sustainability. Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK, highlighted this by stating,

“Small businesses bring character and individuality to their communities and to the whole nation, so it’s great to see young people celebrating that through their conscious shopping choices”.​

What Is Small Business Saturday and How Does It Relate to Broadway Market?

Small Business Saturday, launched by American Express in 2010, is a national campaign designed to encourage shoppers to support local small businesses. This event highlights the vital role small enterprises play in communities and seeks to boost sales during the competitive holiday shopping season. In 2025, Small Business Saturday will take place on November 29, positioned between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, to refocus attention on small and independent retailers.​

Michelle Ovens, also founder of Small Business Britain, has emphasised the significance of this day, especially at a time when small businesses face economic challenges. According to Ovens,

“A thriving small business community leads to a thriving country, so we look forward to working with the Government to further develop this initiative in 2025”.​

Broadway Market’s highlight in the rankings aligns with the spirit of Small Business Saturday, showcasing the importance of supporting local independent enterprises in nurturing economic resilience and community culture.​

What Can Shoppers Expect When Visiting Broadway Market?

Visitors can expect an eclectic mix of stalls and shops selling everything from artisan bread and pastries to fresh seafood, handmade jewellery, organic produce, vintage clothing, and creative crafts. The market reflects the natural charm and creative spirit of Hackney, making it a destination for both shopping and socialising.​

The market primarily operates on Saturdays but the surrounding shops, cafés, and restaurants keep the area lively throughout the week. The unique blend of old and new—from traditional pubs like The Cat and Mutton to modern artisans and cafes—makes Broadway Market a celebrated location for both locals and tourists.