London is a city that truly offers something for every shopper and foodie. Its markets buzz with life, history, and flavors that span the globe—all within a few steps of iconic landmarks. Whether you’re after high-end designer deals at Bicester Village or craving authentic African and Caribbean dishes in Brixton, London’s shopping and market tours deliver a hands-on way to explore the city’s culinary and retail scenes. Tours like the London Food Tour in Soho or Borough Market showcase British classics alongside international flavors, while the Brixton Market Tour immerses you in vibrant Black-owned businesses and lively street art. Each tour offers a different slice of London life—helping you shop, taste, and learn your way through the city.
If you’re like us, you probably love discovering local food secrets, exploring historic markets, or hunting for designer bargains. With London’s wide range of options, you can pick a tour that matches your interests and time constraints. From short, lively walks to full-day shopping trips, there’s something here for every traveler interested in authentic experience and good value.
1. London Food Tour in Soho or Borough Market With 6+ Tastings
At number 1, this 3-hour guided food tour combines two of London’s most iconic neighborhoods: Borough Market and Soho. It’s perfect for those eager to taste British classics like fish & chips and sausage rolls, as well as international street foods. The tour includes at least six tastings and offers a mix of historic market exploration and vibrant street scenes. Tours like this are a great way to learn about London’s culinary traditions while sampling some of the best local cheeses, chutneys, and desserts—often at classic pubs or hidden food spots. The reviews are outstanding with a 4.8/5 rating from over 500 happy tasters, praising guides for their knowledge and engaging stories. This tour represents excellent value at $127 per person, perfect for food lovers wanting an insider’s take on London’s gastronomic secrets.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of food, history, and local atmosphere in just 3 hours, with plenty of delicious bites along the way.
2. London Borough Market & Bankside Food Tour with Eating Europe
Ranking just slightly higher with a perfect 5-star rating, this small-group tour takes you deeper into Borough Market’s bustling stalls. It’s tailored for those who want to avoid the crowds while discovering the best eats with a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes six tastings at six different locations, from sausage rolls at The Ginger Pig to sticky toffee pudding and fresh fish & chips. Group size is capped at 10, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed experience. The itinerary includes stops like Neal’s Yard Dairy for artisan cheeses and the hidden Boot & Flogger pub for sticky toffee pudding and English ale. The tour’s highlight is its expert guide’s ability to pick the market’s prime stalls, offering insights you won’t get wandering solo. For around $129, the value is clear given the quality and depth of experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a relaxed, intimate, and comprehensive tasting adventure at Borough Market, with a focus on local craftsmanship.
3. Brixton Market Tour with African and Caribbean Cuisine
This 3-hour tour dives into the lively neighborhood of Brixton, famous for its vibrant Black-owned businesses and rich cultural scene. Your guide leads you through Electric Avenue and Brixton Village, sampling authentic dishes like Jollof Rice, Jerk Chicken, and fried plantains. It’s not just about the food; the tour offers stories about Brixton’s history, music, and art, making it a full cultural experience. With a perfect 5-star rating from 101 reviews, visitors praise the personable guide and the chance to explore Black cuisine and community spaces firsthand. The tour emphasizes local eateries and the importance of supporting small businesses, making it ideal for travelers interested in social history and authentic flavors.
Bottom Line: A must-do for anyone wanting to taste real African and Caribbean dishes while learning about Brixton’s lively cultural landscape.
4. Food & Drink Walking Tour in South East London. Bermondsey – Borough Market
Number 4 on our list offers a 3-hour journey through Bermondsey’s food scene, starting at Borough Market and moving into lesser-known local spots. Visiting a local gin distillery for a G&T, and exploring artisan food producers and street markets, this tour combines local flavor with a neighborhood feel. The tour is especially good for those who want to go beyond the tourist spots, discovering hidden food gems and artisan producers. The reviews are glowing, with 5 stars for its small-group intimacy and personalized attention. The itinerary includes stops at Tower Bridge, Maltby Street Market, and the historic Shad Thames area, making it a great mix of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic, lesser-known London culinary delights.
5. Borough Market and Beyond
Number 5 is an introductory private tour focused on Borough Market’s 2,000-year history. In just 90 minutes, you’ll see historic sites like Southwark Cathedral and the Globe Theatre, but the real focus is on learning about the neighborhood’s stories and secrets. The small-group format makes it ideal for those who prefer a personalized experience, and it’s especially suitable if you want to get a local’s perspective on London’s food scene and history. Tour highlights include passing by historic prisons and Shakespearean sites, with some optional stops at attractions like the Golden Hinde ship.
Bottom Line: A great choice for history buffs who want a quick but rich cultural and culinary overview of Borough.
6. African & Caribbean Food Tour around Brixton Market
This 3-hour tour is curated for serious lovers of African and Caribbean cuisine, visiting at least five eateries in Brixton. Led by Obi, a local guide, you’ll sample dishes like Jollof rice, fried dumplings, and plantains. The tour emphasizes supporting Black-owned businesses and understanding Brixton’s cultural importance. With a small group, the focus is on personal stories and authentic flavors. Visitors consistently praise Obi’s personable approach and the rich food offerings, with an impressive 5-star rating from 20 reviews. It’s a bit pricier at about $210, but the depth of cultural insight and quality of food make it worth the investment.
Bottom Line: For serious foodies wanting a deep-dive into Brixton’s African and Caribbean culinary scene, this tour offers an in-depth experience.
7. 2 Hour Big Ben to Borough Market Walking Tour
This compact 2-hour tour offers a whirlwind visit to London’s most famous sights, from Big Ben and Westminster Abbey to the Thames and London Eye. Ending at Borough Market, it’s perfect for first-timers with limited time. The guide leads you past major landmarks, sharing stories along the way, then allows some free time to explore Borough Market’s food stalls. With a 5-star rating from 18 reviews, this tour balances sightseeing and local flavor in a quick, energetic format.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick overview of London’s highlights plus a taste of Borough Market, without sacrificing too much time.
8. London: Exclusive Borough Market Food Tour & Baking Class
Number 8 combines a guided food tour with a hands-on baking class in Borough Market, offering a truly immersive experience. You’ll taste three specialties at Borough Market, then learn to make your own Crème Brûlée donut with expert bakers. The class is limited to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention, and you get to take home your creations. Reviews highlight the engaging guides and the fun of making and tasting fresh donuts. For those who love to cook and eat, this is a memorable way to deepen your appreciation of London’s food scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want to cook and taste their way through Borough Market.
9. City Hike London (with Borough Market lunch break)
This 4.5-hour guided walk combines London’s top sights with a lunch stop at Borough Market. Covering major landmarks like Westminster, St. Paul’s, and Tower of London, it’s suited for travelers eager to see it all efficiently. The tour emphasizes storytelling, with many stops for photos and local insights. The highlight is the included lunch at Borough Market, giving you a taste of the city’s culinary scene as you explore. Rated 5/5 from 7 reviews, it’s a good fit for those who want a full overview with a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, active day with a delicious lunch thrown in.
10. London: Borough Market Food Tour with Local Guide
This 3.5-hour tour offers six tastings, including fish & chips and sausage rolls, as well as visits to historic and modern markets like Leadenhall. The guide shares local tips, and the walk concludes with a wine and cheese pairing in a trendy London bar. The small group ensures a personalized experience, and reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge. At around $75, it’s a good value for a balanced mix of bites and insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a well-rounded tasting experience combined with local insider tips.
11. Holiday Tea and Doughnuts: Historic Borough Market Food Tour
This holiday-themed 2-hour tour focuses on London’s favorite treats: tea and doughnuts. Visiting four bakeries, you’ll sample various doughnut styles and enjoy freshly brewed tea. It’s a sweet way to experience Borough Market’s festive side and learn about London’s bakery traditions. With a single review praising it highly, it’s a cozy, flavorful experience ideal for a relaxing break from sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sweet tooth travelers wanting a festive, relaxed tasting tour during any season.
12. London: Welcome Tour with Food Market Lunchbreak
This 4.5-hour sightseeing tour is great for first-time visitors. It covers all the major sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s, with a lunch break at Borough Market. The guide provides a lively overview of London’s neighborhoods, perfect for orienting yourself. The tour ends at a local pub, offering a true taste of London life. Rated 5/5 from 1 review, it’s a comprehensive choice for those wanting to see the city with a bit of food included.
Bottom Line: Best for newcomers who want a broad tour plus a good meal to start their London adventure.
13. Bicester Village Shopping Trip from London with VIP Discount
This full-day luxury shopping trip takes you to Bicester Village, home to over 150 designer stores. For around $49, you get VIP discounts and the chance to save up to 60% on brands like Armani and Alexander McQueen. The trip includes multiple pickup points and about five hours of shopping time. Reviews note the value of discounts and the comfortable coach transfer, making it a popular choice for fashion lovers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking high-end designer bargains without the hassle of navigating alone.
14. From London: Bicester Village Shopping and Cotswolds Tour
Number 14 offers a full-day trip combining luxury shopping at Bicester Village with a scenic tour of the Cotswolds. You’ll explore charming villages, see ancient stones at Rollright, and visit Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace. This tour suits those who want a mix of retail therapy and picturesque countryside. The reviews, though not specified here, generally highlight the convenience and scenic value of combining these two experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a day of shopping and exploring the stunning English countryside in one go.
How to Choose the Right Shopping & Market Tour in London
Picking the best tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you love food and history, tours like London Food Tour in Soho or Borough Market or the Borough Market & Beyond are excellent. For cultural insights, the Borough Market Tour & Baking Class offers a hands-on experience. If your aim is shopping for designer brands, the trips to Bicester Village are your best bet, with VIP discounts and full-day shopping.
Consider your budget, time, and whether you want a food-focused, history-oriented, or shopping-intensive day. Book early, especially for popular tours like the African & Caribbean Food Tour or the Bicester Village Shopping Trip, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
London’s shopping and market tours span the spectrum from intimate tastings to full-day retail adventures. For a quick, energetic taste of the city’s highlights, the Big Ben to Borough Market tour is perfect. Food lovers will appreciate the Borough Market & Beyond or the Exclusive Borough Market Food & Baking Class. For a cultural deep-dive into Brixton’s African and Caribbean scene, the Brixton Market Tour offers authentic flavors and stories.
If shopping is your main goal, don’t miss out on the luxury experience at Bicester Village, especially if you’re eager to snag designer deals at a fraction of the price. Whichever experience suits your style, booking early ensures a smooth and memorable shopping or tasting adventure in London.