Discover Old Billingsgate on the Thames
Once a thriving (possibly very smelly) fish market, Old Billingsgate has traded its seafood for soirées, its market stalls for majestic halls, and its fishy fragrance for the scent of fine dining. This Grade II-listed Victorian landmark is now one of London’s premier event spaces, sitting proudly along the Thames, offering three distinct areas—the Grand Hall, The Gallery, and The Vault. Let’s dive into what makes this venue so special.
Billingsgate’s Early History
The origins of Billingsgate Market can be traced back over a thousand years, with informal trading likely taking place as early as the 9th century. However, it wasn’t until 1400 that Billingsgate officially became a recognised market when King Henry IV granted it a royal charter. Initially, the market sold a variety of goods, including corn, salt, wine, fish, pottery, coal, and iron, making it one of London’s most important trading centres.
It wasn’t until 1699 when an Act of Parliament officially designated Billingsgate as 'a free and open market for all sorts of fish whatsoever,'—except for eels, which were exclusively sold by Dutch fishermen as a reward for their help during the Great Fire of London. This restriction remained in place until the ban was lifted, allowing Billingsgate to eventually dominate the trade of all fish varieties.
The Rise of Billingsgate Market
As the demand for fish grew, so did the need for a purpose-built market structure. Before this, traders operated from informal stalls and sheds along the riverside. In 1850, the first dedicated Billingsgate Market building was constructed on Lower Thames Street to centralise trading activities. However, this structure quickly proved inadequate for the growing trade, leading to its demolition in 1873.
Enter Sir Horace Jones, the city architect responsible for many of London’s most iconic structures. In 1877, he unveiled a grand new market hall, known today as Old Billingsgate Market. This new market was twice the size of its predecessor and incorporated important thoroughfares such as the Billingsgate Stairs and Darkhouse Lane. With vast, arcaded halls and impressive ironwork, it became a hub of trade where an estimated 120,000 tons of fish arrived annually by sea, road, and rail.
The Old Billingsgate Porters and Market Life
Billingsgate’s success was supported by its workforce, particularly the market porters, who played an essential role in transporting fish throughout the market. In 1876, the City of London Corporation introduced a bye-law requiring all porters to be officially licensed.
This created a highly coveted trade, often passed down through generations. Porters were paid based on the quantity of fish they moved, making it a lucrative job for just a few hours of work each week. Despite strong resistance, the licensing system was abolished in 2012, marking the end of a centuries-old tradition.
The market was also known for its lively and often raucous atmosphere. Traders and porters developed a distinctive and colourful vocabulary, with 'Billingsgate language' becoming synonymous with coarse and outspoken speech. This reputation, however, was what gave the market its unique charm and cheeky character.
Famous Figures Associated with Old Billingsgate
Old Billingsgate Market has been linked to several famous figures throughout history. The writer George Orwell worked briefly at the market in the 1930s, gaining firsthand experience of the demanding conditions faced by traders and porters. Another figure with ties to Billingsgate was actor Michael Caine, whose father worked as a market porter—had he followed in his father’s footsteps, Hollywood might have lost one of its most iconic actors.
Perhaps the most infamous former workers at Billingsgate were the Kray twins, notorious East End gangsters. In their teenage years, Reggie Kray worked as a salesman while Ronnie Kray was an 'empty boy,' responsible for collecting empty fish boxes at the end of the trading day. Their time at Billingsgate was short-lived, lasting only about six months—still the longest job they ever held.
But perhaps the most beloved figure at Billingsgate isn’t human at all—it’s Sammy the Seal. This cheeky Thames resident has been known to pop up near the market, responding to traders’ calls and even getting a few tasty fishy treats in return.
The Decline and Relocation of Old Billingsgate Market
Despite its historical significance, Billingsgate Market became increasingly out of place within the modern City of London. The market’s operations caused congestion and logistical challenges in the financial district, leading to calls for its relocation.
In 1982, the market officially ceased trading at its historic site and was moved to the Isle of Dogs, where it continues to operate under the management of the City of London Corporation. As a symbolic gesture, the Corporation pays an annual ground rent for the market’s new location in the form of 'the gift of one fish.'
P.S. Billingsgate Market is also expecting another relocation to a state-of-the-art 42-acre site at Dagenham Docks in 2028, where it will join Smithfield and New Spitalfields Markets.
A New Chapter for Old Billingsgate
After the fishmongers packed up and moved east, Old Billingsgate underwent a transformation overseen by renowned architect Lord Richard Rogers. The venue features three unique spaces:
- The Grand Hall.
- The Vault.
- The Terrace.
Let’s take a closer look at these spaces:
The Grand Hall
The Grand Hall is, well, grand. With a jaw-dropping triple-height ceiling and a mezzanine that overlooks the action, it’s the ultimate showstopper. Sunlight streams through the ornate, sky-lit roof, adding a golden glow to any event.
And let’s not forget the Thames-side terrace—perfect for sipping summer cocktails while soaking in panoramic views of Tower Bridge, The Shard, and London Bridge.
- Capacity: Up to 2,500 guests for receptions, 1,800 for seated dinners, and 1,200 for conferences.
- Size: A whopping 47,000 square feet.
The Gallery
If the Grand Hall is all about scale, The Gallery is about sophistication. With its clean, contemporary design and arching white beams, it’s the go-to space for fashion shows, exhibitions, and stylish receptions.
Natural light floods in, creating an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. Plus, with two additional breakout rooms, it’s got plenty of space for VIP lounges, seminar areas, or a well-stocked dressing room for those high-profile events.
- Capacity: 500 guests for receptions, 250 for sit-down dinners, and 300 for conferences.
- Size: 10,000 square feet of sleek event space.
The Vault
Hidden beneath the Grand Hall lies The Vault—Old Billingsgate’s best-kept secret. Once an icy storage space for the market’s daily haul, this underground space now features exposed brick walls, atmospheric lighting, and vaulted ceilings.
If you’re looking for a venue with a little edge, The Vault is perfect for exclusive dinners, after-parties, or intimate corporate gatherings. And in the heart of it all? The Well—a central space with soaring ceilings, just waiting to be transformed into a dance floor, DJ booth, or even a theatrical stage.
- Capacity: 900 guests for receptions, 600 for seated dinners, and 270 for conferences.
- Size: 21,000 square feet of underground cool.
Events at Old Billingsgate
Why Choose Old Billingsgate?
- Prime City Location: Positioned between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, it’s easy to get to and impossible to forget.
- Historic yet Modern: A Grade II-listed gem with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Riverside Views: Because every event is better with a backdrop of the Thames.
- Flexible Spaces: From grand affairs to intimate gatherings, there’s a space for every occasion.
- Top-Tier Catering & AV: Everything you need for a seamless, spectacular event.
With its flexible spaces and prime riverside location, it’s no wonder it’s a favourite for events. But what type of events are hosted at Old Billingsgate each year? Let’s take a look:
- Corporate Events & Conferences.
- Weddings & Private Parties.
- Fashion Shows & Product Launches.
- Summer & Christmas Parties.
Catering Fit for a King (or a Corporate CEO)
A stunning venue deserves equally stunning food, and that’s where Payne & Gunter come in. These culinary wizards have been crafting exquisite menus since 1786. Expect elegant canapés, lavish buffets, or five-course fine dining. Whatever the occasion, they bring fresh, locally sourced ingredients to the table, ensuring your event is delicious and dazzling.
The Old Billingsgate Exhibition
The history of Old Billingsgate Market is celebrated in exhibitions at the City of London Heritage Gallery. This collection, housed in the Guildhall Art Gallery, showcases historic documents, books, images, and maps detailing the market’s evolution. Among the notable items on display are:
- Liber Horn (1311): A compilation of charters, statutes, and customs illustrating the importance of fish to London’s economy.
- Seventeenth-century petition: A request from fishermen protesting obstruction by large vessels loaded with salt and oranges, which hindered their access to the docks.
- Nineteenth-century records: Documents detailing the collection of tolls and the licensing of porters, highlighting the market’s strict regulations.
- Historic photographs: Twentieth-century images capturing the vibrant atmosphere of a busy Billingsgate Market and its hard working porters.
Visiting Old Billingsgate
Old Billingsgate is easy to reach no matter your preferred mode of transport. Here’s how to get there:
- Underground:
– Monument Station: Just a 4-minute stroll (0.2 miles) from King William Street (EC4R 9AA) via the District or Circle lines.
– Bank Station: Only a 9-minute walk (0.4 miles) with access via the Northern, Waterloo & City, or Docklands Light Railway lines. - National Rail: Fenchurch Street Station is a 7-minute walk away, while Cannon Street, London Bridge, and Liverpool Street stations are all within a comfortable 10–16 minute walk.
- River Bus: Disembark at Tower Millennium Pier (EC3N 4DT), a mere 4-minute walk from the venue, and enjoy the Thames views on your way.
- By Car: Although there’s no dedicated parking at Old Billingsgate itself, the nearest car park is only 250 meters away.
While Old Billingsgate has shed its fishy past for fabulous events, if you’re curious about its origins you might want to take a peek at the relocated Billingsgate Market in the Docklands. This modern fish market now occupies a 13-acre site on the Isle of Dogs, where die-hard early risers can catch the freshest catch (literally) between 5:00 am and 8:30 am.
Explore Beyond Old Billingsgate with CityDays
But why stop at one extraordinary venue? With CityDays, you can turn any day in London into an adventure. Our scavenger and treasure hunt tours are the perfect way to boost team spirit and discover hidden gems across London—and even around the globe.
Imagine racing through historic streets, solving quirky clues, and unlocking secret spots that most tourists never see. Because our tours are perfect for a range of occasions it doesn’t matter whether you’re planning a corporate outing or a casual day out with friends, we will have you laughing, exploring, and connecting like never before.
